Active, adventurous, hands-on and eager, Oranges are spontaneous performers who flourish in an atmosphere of variety and stimulation. They learn best when they can immediately recognize the practical applications to “real” life.

Behavior problems begin to arise when:

• They are made to wait, too much routine

• There is no outlet for competitive spirit, adventure

• They are bored or lack fun, freedom, or challenge

• The classroom structure is too rigid, excessive paperwork

• They receive criticism that limits risk-taking

Clues that Orange is heading for trouble may include:

• Excessive fidgeting, pesters others

• Aggressive behavior, shouts, verbal attacks

• Defies authority, intentionally breaks rules

• Nervousness, restlessness, trapped by structure

• Disruptive, excessive attention-getting misbehavior

Compassionate, creative, affectionate, relationship-oriented individuals, Blues need to express their emotions, feel special, included, connected and a sense of harmony in their environment and with others.

Behavior problems begin to arise when:

• They feel unfairly hurt by teacher or classmates

• They are left out of activities or feel abandoned

• The class environment is too noisy or competitive

• There is not enough group interaction, discussion or connection

• They detect indifference, feel insignificant or lack validation and acknowledgement

Clues that a Blue is heading for trouble may include:

• Excessive fantasizing, daydreaming, spacing out

• Tardiness because of friends

• Crying, emotional upset, moodiness, depression

• Over dependence on teachers or others

• Tries to act like nothing is wrong, lies to save face

Prepare, reliable, conscientious, role model students, Golds thrive on consistency, organization and structure. They like to know what to expect and what is expected of them.

Behavior problems begin to arise when:

• There is lack of structure, disorganization, not starting on time

• They are not provided with enough detail, concreteness, or time to prepare

• There is limited reinforcement or reward for success

• Others are off task or irresponsible

• There is inconsistency or injustice

Clues that Gold is heading for trouble may include:

• Anxiety and worry

• Critical, authoritarian tone of voice, complaining and use of guilt to manipulate

• Malicious judgment of self and others, excessive control

• Tense body posture and movements

• Tired, illness, headaches, self-pity, whining

Curious, independent, analytical and ingenious, Greens are problem-solvers intrigued with the how and why. They crave facts, information and competence.

Behavior problems begin to arise when:

• They think others see them as incompetent

• They don’t have time to think or prepare

• There is lack of privacy or autonomy

• They are forced to participate or perform when they fear failure

• They believe the teacher or lesson is illogical

Clues that Green is heading for trouble may include:

• Anxiousness, forgetfulness, difficulty communicating thoughts

• Overactive imagination, withdrawal

• Criticism of others through snobbish acts, superior demeanor or derogatory remarks

• Arguing, back talk, non-conformance, defiance of authority

• Avoidance of feared object or situation