Gummy Bears' Daycare & Learning Center’s School Rules:
Be respectful and do not hurt your friends.
Be respectful and do not hurt the things in our school.
In general, this covers no hitting or pushing, putting toys away when finished with them, no throwing toys, and no teasing.
Guidance and Discipline Practices:
My goal is to help each child develop a strong sense of self-discipline and positive self-esteem over time through positive reinforcement. If a child is exhibiting temper tantrum type behavior or hurting themselves, others, or equipment, I will suggest that they “take a break” and separate them from the group for a child-regulated period of time. When the child can show that they are ready to demonstrate acceptable behavior, the child is encouraged to join the rest of the group and try again. If needed, children will be placed in time-out for one minute per age of the child.
I try to create an environment for children which is supportive and respectful of their needs. I use different methods of discipline for different situations.
When children are arguing or out of control, I will insist on a “time out” or cooling off period.
When children are doing something that is not appropriate, I will redirect them to a more suitable activity.
I may also use “When. . . Then,” or “If. . . Then” statements to encourage them to accomplish one task before moving on to something else. For example I might say, “When you finish picking up the blocks, then you can go outside,” or “If you want to go to the park, you have to pick up the toys you were playing with.”
At times, I may also choose to ignore misbehavior. I will always encourage children to solve their own problems through compromise.
I will never physically punish your child by spanking, slapping, or hitting.