Developing and implementing clear rules and expectations is the foundation of positive behavior guidance. Clear expectations foster a caring environment where children and adults support and respect each other’s spaces, materials, and feelings. Rules such as sharing, turn-taking, voice and body control, listening, respect for materials, cleaning up, and using kind words are all examples of how children can show their independence and create an enjoyable environment for everyone.
Gathering Input from Children
Allowing children input when creating rules gives them a sense of ownership. They are more likely to follow the rules, understand expectations, and feel safe and comfortable. It also helps to build a sense of community in the classroom or program.
- Plan a discussion with the children about rules and why they are important. Ask children about their feelings when they experience specific inappropriate behaviors like having a toy taken or being called a name. Ask them for a rule that may help in that situation.
- Be prepared to restate the children’s input in clear, positive terms, rather than statements of what behavior should not be done. This helps children to build awareness of the positive behavior, rather than to focus on the disruptive or negative behavior. For example, when children offer “No running” as a rule, you may rephrase it to “Use Walking Feet.” This rule teaches the child the appropriate behavior instead of simply teaching the behavior to avoid.
- Write 3-5 rules and keep them prominently displayed in your child care setting. Refer to them throughout the day. Remember to congratulate children who are following the rules rather than referring to the rules only as a means to stop unwanted behavior.
Modeling and Consistency
Modeling is an important aspect of behavior management in early childhood programs. Children need to see positive behaviors demonstrated in their everyday experiences. Consistency creates a predictable environment for the children. They come to understand consequences and outcomes, as well as become empowered to make positive behavioral choices.
Remember, sharing your behavior management practices with families helps them to understand how your program handles issues that may arise in a positive manner. Setting clear expectations and allowing children to provide input is an important part of a successful positive guidance policy. Does your policy describe how children are part of the process for developing the rules and expectations?