Dear Barbara ...
I've created the Dear Barbara column as a way for subs to get answers to questions about any subbing topic or suggestions that may help you solve a specific problem in substitute teaching.

If you'd like to submit a question, please click here and be sure to include your name and home town. Answers to the best questions will be published here.


Click on the question to read the letter and Barbara's response:

What Should I do When I Hear: "I Want to Go to the Nurse"?

How Do I Handle an Annoying Teacher's Aide?

How Can I Manage parents who are "too helpful?"

I Was Humiliated by Another Teacher

How Can I "Play Detective" without Looking Foolish?

How Can I Manage Breakout Talking During Group Work?

How Can I Handle a Truly Difficult Student?

How Do I Avoid Being Too Strict and Still Maintain Control?

What should I do when a few disruptive students ruin things for the rest?

How can I avoid having my class fall apart during the last ten minutes of the period?

How can I get them to stop talking so that I can talk?

Nagging and Negative - How can I change?

Are Rewards the Answer?

Will I be Able to Sub in High School?


How Can I Avoid Feeling Invisible?


When Should I Ask for Help?

Is it OK for me to use technology in the classroom?

What's the best way to “warm up” the class for learning?

I Don't Understand the Lesson Plan!

How should I handle a student who demands my attention?

How do I handle too many "special helpers?"

Substitute Teaching from A to Z

How to Use this Book

Subbing Resources

Interesting Subbing Facts

Return to home page