DISCIPLINE

Part of a child's learning experience at the preschool level should be the development of self-discipline. The child must understand the purpose of his "work" and develop a sense of responsibility toward others in how they perform "their" work. We encourage children to decide how they will tackle certain projects and problems they run into. Teachers assist the child in determining which child is to do what part of a job and which child does another. The child helps choose and plan his "work."

They learn cooperation and learn to work independently. Teachers allow plenty of leeway in the child's exploration and supply plenty of legitimate material so the child can apply himself or herself. The teacher tries to understand why a child cooperates under certain conditions and rebels under others. We try to remove the cause of trouble and, if possible, help the child understand what has taken place. We discuss with the child the consequences of his/her actions, the need for appropriate behavior and, if possible, the need for restitution. The teacher realizes the child's abilities and needs and gradually increases expectations for control as the child ability indicates. When inappropriate behavior surfaces, the child is removed from the group until he/she can play correctly with others. The teacher and child talk over the behavior, look for better ways to handle a situation and, when the child is ready, he/she may rejoin the group. We decrease inappropriate behavior by understanding the motives of misbehavior, choosing "time-outs" - removing the child from the group for approximately 2-5 minutes depending on the child's age and development. If the behavior begins to affect the quality time of the classroom, the matter may be turned over to the director and he/she decides the appropriate action to take. There is never any hitting, denial of food, or isolation of the child. The parent is notified of inappropriate behavior if deemed necessary so a proper behavior plan can be implemented for use at home and at school.

  • There should never be any type of corporal punishment.
  • No child shall be subjected to cruel or severe punishment, humiliation, or verbal abuse.
  • No child shall be denied food as a form of punishment.
  • No child shall be punished for soiling, wetting or not using the toilet.