Children who are taught positive resolution techniques develop into mature, capable, confident adults. They develop self-control and acceptable social behavior by making decisions during the day and implementing these decisions. Teachers help children develop verbal skills that communicate their needs and desires effectively, and then help them develop ideas and alternatives to the identified problem and select a solution to be implemented. Staff role-model acceptable behaviors and use planned classroom activities to teach socially acceptable behaviors.

Our non-punitive approach to discipline uses the techniques of: anticipating trouble, giving gentle reminders, distracting to a positive role model, injecting humor into tense situations, offering choices, giving praise or compliments, offering encouragement, clarifying messages, overlooking small annoyances, deliberately ignore provoking behavior, reconsidering or rethinking the situation, pointing out natural or logical consequences in an appropriate verbal tone, allowing the child a chance to calm down and discuss alternatives, and role playing alternatives with adults and children in the classroom setting to help children develop conflict resolution skills.

Communication between teaching and administrative staff and parents are a vital part of our discipline philosophy. Occasionally, a child’s behavior may interfere with his ability to remain in a group education and care setting. We will work with cooperating parents to develop an individual behavior modification plan, if necessary, and to determine if our program is appropriate for the child at this time.