Children feel connected in a classroom structured as a community. When classrooms are organized as communities rather than as authority-based hierarchies, a group spirit emerges. In such an environment, children can practice the resiliency of humor by learning to laugh at themselves and help others see fun in everyday happenings. Humor can be a daily part of life in a classroom community, where children greet each other, share family stories and events, and make jokes about themselves. Being able to laugh about mistakes together cuts tension and lessens competitiveness.
Children play an active role in setting rules for classroom life.
Rule-making is a way for children to practice morality. Discussing rules invites them to weigh consequences and to reflect on concepts like fairness, the reasons for rules, and the instances when they apply. Creating their own rules helps children develop responsibility for their own behavior, for one another, and for the group. Many of these practices are used by experienced teachers to promote social and academic competence, to encourage children to be active rather than passive learners. Classroom practice can make a real difference in the lives of children.