Misbehavior can occur if children are not engaged in interesting work. To encourage appropriate behavior, we strive to engage children in stimulating activities and encourage choices.
Sometimes misbehavior is attention-getting behavior. We attempt to be proactive in dealing with attention-getting behavior by building a relationship with each child and speaking to each child individually many times throughout the day. A brief chat when a child arrives, a discussion regarding a painting, or sharing a joke during play time all make a child feel noticed. We also make a point of noticing when children behave appropriately. For example, We might say, “Brittany, thank you for scooting over to make room for Ben. Now we all have a place to sit.”
We do not give stickers or candy for appropriate behavior, as we believe this leads to a child’s dependence on external forces for controlling behavior. The goal is for children to be responsible for their own behavior and to behave appropriately because it is satisfying in its own right.
Other misbehaviors occur because children are unclear of what is expected of them or because they need more practice to master the appropriate behaviors. Expectations are made clear to the children. Parents are encouraged to support these expectations at home, too. Everyone in the classroom is expected to exhibit active listening: eyes on the speaker, bodies still, mouths quiet, brains thinking about what is being said. Our puppet friend, Penn, discusses and role plays his rules: We are Safe, Friendly, and Polite, We Try, Think, Include Everyone, Help, and Clean Up.
“Consistent structure and behavior for the children
to follow”
Suzie Burns, parent
Children who behave inappropriately are dealt with in a way that preserves their dignity and trust. We believe children deserve the same respect as afforded to adults. Therefore, we strive to suggest, request, discuss, and offer alternatives, rather than demand, criticize, humiliate, punish, or scream.
“Kim has created a very positive and loving school”
Jillian Bateman, parent
At The Learning Workshop misbehavior is viewed as an opportunity to teach. The teacher’s role as the adult and experienced member of the group is to guide children to learn right from wrong. The goal is to develop children’s ability to come up with peaceful solutions to their problems. This training includes discussing the misdeed, its effects on other members of the learning group, and possible solutions the child will try to solve the problem. Removing a child from a situation or activity and requesting that a child make restitution for a wrongdoing are occasionally necessary.
“We love the positive and creative way [Kim] works
with children”
Carolyn Kempkes, parent
Many behavioral issues are minor and dealt with at school. Parent involvement is only sought after the child has had opportunity to improve his or her behavior and is still having trouble.
We have a No Corporal Punishment policy. No one at The Learning Workshop will spank, hit, kick, push, bite or otherwise abuse your child. If a child is repeatedly a danger to the other children, we cannot allow him or her to stay at The Learning Workshop.
