Greatest Resource uses positive guidance and discipline techniques that are consistent with the age and individual needs of each child. Discipline is used as a teaching tool and not as a punishment. I achieve this through love, consistency, and firmness. I stress two main patterns of behavior: respect of self and others, and respect of property. The children are explained the rules frequently so they are familiar with the guidelines and expectations.
Positive Guidance and Discipline means that no child will be disciplined by humiliating or frightening; physical punishment; verbal abuse or threats; confinement, binding or physically restraining the movement of any child; or the withholding of or forcing of meals.
I believe in teaching the children to solve their own problems. If a child has difficulty following directions, treating others and equiptment with respect, or following the childcare rules, the following methods will be used to help the child achieve positive behaviors and experiences--active listening, giving affirmations, negotiation skills, setting limits, and modifying the environment. Should I have to step in, in addition to the aforementioned methods, I will use: redirection, removal of the child from the stressful situation, limiting the child's participation in the activities, and as a last resort, "time-out". If "time-out" is used I allow the child to determine when he/she is ready to rejoin the group. "Time-out" will be followed by a brief discussion of the incident, a brainstorm session for ideas on how to handle the situation better the next time, and a comforting hug or two. I will never require a child to stay in time-out longer than one minute per age of year.
If there is a chronic behavioral issue that needs immediate attention, (i.e. chronic hitting, biting, usage of bad language, defiance, etc) Parent and Provider will work together to create a guidance and discipline game plan to ensure there is a continuity between home and school. Some behaviors will result in withdrawal of childcare services.
If positive guidance and discipline techniques have been used consistently and the child remains unruly, Parents will be called to remove the child from Greatest Resource for the remainder of the day. Greatest Resource reserves the right to ask Parent/Guardian to make temporary or permanent alternative childcare arrangements.
While in or around the childcare home, Parents and Guardians are required to also follow the positive guidance and discipline techniques and policy. |
