DISCIPLINE POLICY

Behavior management techniques are utilized to help children understand adult expectations for their behavior, to anticipate possible conflict situations, and to intervene in a timely manner to prevent problems from occurring or escalating. For example, teachers create environments that encourage positive behavior by:

• Defining the classrooms areas,

• Planning developmentally appropriate activities,

• Establishing clear rules,

• Using positive language to explain desired behavior, avoiding the words 
   "don't" or “no”,

• Speaking in soft conversational voices,

• Bending down to child's eye level when speaking,

• Avoiding calling across the classroom,

• Giving clear choices to children,

• eHelping them anticipate transitions to the new routine,

• Giving children words to solve the problem,

• Providing enough space to play,

• Avoiding lengthy waiting periods,

• "Catching children being good",

• Remaining calm,

• Comforting a hurt child while clearly caring for another child who has been
   inappropriate.

Teachers circulate throughout the classrooms, strategically placing themselves to enable them to see the entire room at a glance, and use humor, imagination, redirection, and consistency to assist children in developing self-control.

At no time is it acceptable to use corporal punishment or frightening methods of control; to humiliate, isolate or ignore children; or to withhold food or force food at mealtime as punishment. Emphasis is placed on teaching alternate behaviors and giving each child situations to practice alternate behaviors in order to establish new, acceptable habits. Classroom staff understands that learning is gradual and occurs through repetition. If particular concerns arise, a conference may be scheduled for parents and staff: If parents have any concerns, they are encouraged to contact the child's teacher or the Center Director.