One key way I do involve students in their learning is to make sure the material speaks to them by connecting what im teaching to real life. Choose culturally relevant materials by have my students complete a short survey on their outside interests and use that information to assist in building my lesson plans. I also link routines to learning. I also use students’ interests and fascinations by finding out what they are passionate about and then use those interests as natural motivators to increase engagement. I also give my students choices, I can group the class to enhance contribution, allow them choose their starting point on assignments to make them feel challenged.
I also try to hook their interest with fun transitions because transitions between activities can be the perfect time to infuse more joy and fun into my daily routine–and get my students energized and excited to learn.
Finally, I teach students self-monitoring skills because I've observed that when children are taught to regulate their behavior and work independently, they develop habits to help them succeed and there tend to be more flexiblity in the classroom.