Today’s Apathetic Kids: What to Do When Kids Just Don’t Care

beginning elementary teachers emotion regulation for kids new elementary teachers student engagement

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Show Notes:

You know the look: the blank stare, the shrugged shoulders, the quiet “I don’t care” that shows up no matter how engaging the lesson or activity is. When students feel apathetic, it can be one of the most discouraging challenges in the elementary classroom. But apathy isn’t a lack of ability; it’s a disconnect.

With so much happening in our society and within our classrooms, apathetic behavior has become one of the most challenging issues teachers face. When students shut down and show little motivation, it can leave teachers feeling frustrated and asking, What else can I do? However, with the right approach, these disengaged moments can become powerful opportunities to rebuild trust, spark curiosity, and help students feel seen again. In today’s episode, I take a deeper look at why apathy is so prevalent, and share practical, simple strategies you can start using with apathetic students this week.

The number of apathetic students in classrooms has steadily increased over the last several years. This is not a coincidence. Many post-COVID skills are still underdeveloped and need to be explicitly taught and practiced. Drawing on research, I discuss how feeling overwhelmed, overstimulated, and emotionally under-resourced can dull students’ motivation systems and create gaps in emotional regulation.

With this understanding, teachers can begin to view apathy through a different lens. When apathy is seen as dysregulation rather than opposition, it gives you a meaningful place to start. To support you, I share simple and effective strategies designed to build motivation and perseverance. Each strategy helps students feel connected, secure, and empowered in their learning. When teachers prioritize relationships, consistency, and emotional safety, while still holding high expectations, students begin to re-engage.

It’s important to remember that apathetic behavior isn’t a sign that a child doesn’t care. It’s a signal that something deeper is going on. Reconnecting with apathetic students takes patience, consistency, and small, intentional actions that help them feel capable and valued. And while progress may be gradual, those steady acts of care can reignite trust, motivation, and a sense of belonging, which reminds students that school is a place where they matter and where it’s worth trying again.

Inside this week's show, you'll learn:

The misconception behind apathetic behavior and what it truly means for students.
Research-based evidence explaining why apathy has increased in children and the skill gaps that have resulted.
Simple, practical strategies you can use with apathetic students in your classroom this week.
Why connection and meeting unmet needs are key to re-engaging students.
How to intentionally create small opportunities for students to build agency through choices and daily classroom jobs.

Links & resources mentioned inside this episode:

I hope this information is helpful as you prepare for your first, second, or third year of teaching. Until next time, remember, just because you're a beginning elementary teacher, there's no need for you to struggle like one.

💛 Lori

Dr. Lori Friesen | Beginning Teacher Mentor

Creator of the R.E.A.D.Y. for School Academy and The Classroom Management Club, Dr. Lori Friesen has mentored thousands of beginning teachers across the country through her workshops and courses. Host of the popular podcast Beginning Teacher Talk and author of Dear New Teacher, Here's Exactly What to Do, Dr. Lori is dedicated to serving educators and inspiring learners. Learn more at drlorifriesen.com.

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