How do I get students to listen and follow directions?

Respect the kids so that they will respect you. Always listen and take into account their opinions, and don't make it all about behaving and obeying you. Try to sound upbeat and casual when giving directions instead of commanding. Make sure you show appreciation when the children listen, and express your disappointment when they don't. For example: "John, thanks for putting your books away, now i have more time to teach you guys," or if they don't follow directions, "Amber I'm disappointed that you didn't sharpen your pencil like I asked you to, now I can't read your writing."