Dear Nona,

I have a self-professed “class comedian” who constantly disrupts my lessons. I’ve tried everything—redirecting, moving his seat, private talks, behavior modification, and even involving admin. Nothing has worked! The rest of the class is getting frustrated, and so am I. Help!

— Out of Ideas

Dear Out of Ideas,

Ah, comedians. I’ve certainly hosted my fair share over the years, and I’ll admit I have a soft spot for them. They live for laughs and feed off attention. They often view your lesson as an open mic night and the classroom as their personal improv stage.

Here’s the secret: If they’re the show, you’re the producer. You decide when, where, and if they get the spotlight.

Step 1: Figure Out What They’re Chasing

—Is it simply the opportunity to make people laugh?

—Is it attention? If so, are they willing to take any attention, including negative?

—Is it control? Some students disrupt because they want to be in charge of the room.

—Is it boredom? If the work feels too easy (or hard), acting out becomes a coping mechanism.

Step 2: Remove the Audience

—Private Conversation:  Instead of just saying, “Stop disrupting,” ask: “What do you need to stay engaged without distracting others?” You might get an actual answer. (Or you might get a shrug, but at least you tried.)

—Strategic Ignoring (When Possible): If their jokes aren’t harmful and no one laughs, the behavior may fade.

—Change the Seating Plan: Keep them close to you but away from their “audience.” Years ago, I had a budding stand-up comedian. He was actually quite funny, and, for some reason, chose my class to hone his craft. I eventually had to move his desk right up front near me so he couldn’t see the other students and was able to focus. In exchange, I gave him 3 minutes at the end of class, 3 days a week, to perform his routines. I was able to teach, students were able to learn, and everyone enjoyed the performances.

Step 3: Give Them a Role, Not a Stage

Some comedians just need a spotlight. So, redirect their energy.

—Class Job: Give them something useful to do—passing out papers or running the warm-up.

—Planned Humor Outlet: If they’re actually funny (like my student above), let them use it—but on your terms. “Hey, if you get through the lesson without disruptions, I’ll let you share a joke at the end of class.”

Step 4: If They Won’t Stop, Set Clear Consequences

—First time? Reminder.

—Second time? Move their seat.

—Third time? A consequence that actually matters to them (not just “another warning”). This could be losing a privilege, a parent conference, etc.

Remember: You’re in charge, not them. Shut down the show when needed.

What to Expect Next:

—They’ll test your limits. Stay consistent. Don’t react emotionally. The moment you get visibly frustrated? They win.

—They may act offended. Ignore the drama.

—If you shift their energy, they might just thrive.

Some kids need attention. Give it to them—just not at the expense of your lesson. Now, go forth and reclaim your classroom.

— Nona

More Pro Tips

—Ms. L: "I tell my class comedian, ‘You can be funny, or you can be disruptive. Pick one.’ It makes them think, and for me, it works.”

—Mr. D: "I made my class clown the ‘hype person’ for class debates. Gave them an outlet, and they stopped interrupting."