Behavior Management Philosophy
I provide a daily routine that is flexible, yet structured, to ensure that children are comfortable with their surroundings and expectations. Children’s interactions with one another are carefully watched, giving us an opportunity to help instill common values within each child. Through sensitivity and understanding I strive to teach each child in my care manners, kindness, and to be respectful towards others, he or she is encouraged to make amends through sincere apology; all in a sustained effort to help teach children the basic understanding of right from wrong. Additionally sharing, taking turns, problem solving, and teamwork are stressed with equal importance, so that the children can learn to play harmoniously with one another; helping to lay the foundation for all social interactions to come later in life.
I believe that the discipline of a child is through patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement. One of the ways in which I do this is by the example we, as childcare providers, set. I understand that our actions and reactions speak much louder than our words. The children are explained the rules of the daycare frequently, so they know what’s expected of them. Once a child is old enough to understand the rules and disobeys them, by exhibiting inappropriate behavior (hitting, aggression, etc), hurts others, or property, the following developmentally appropriate guidance techniques will be used.
1. Positive Reinforcement: The child will be encouraged when he or she is demonstrating acceptable behavior.
2. Redirection: The child is redirected to another activity and given the opportunity to try again at another time.
3. Time-Out: The child is separated from the group for an age appropriate amount of time (one minute per one year of age) This technique is only use when a child repeatedly will not follow our directions or listen to our words, is exhibiting temper tantrum type behavior, or hurting ones self, others or equipment. When the child shows that he or she is ready to demonstrate acceptable behavior, they are encouraged to join the rest of the group to try again.
4. Last Resort: When a child’s behavior is continually upsetting or dangerous to others, a conference will be called with the parents. If the problems cannot be resolved, arrangements will have to be made for the child to go elsewhere for care.
