Little Cupcakes Behavior Management Philosophy
We at Little Cupcakes Child Care provide a daily routine that is flexible, yet structured, to ensure that children are comfortable with their surroundings and expectations. Children’s interactions with one another are carefully watched, giving us an opportunity to help instill common values within each child. Through sensitivity and understanding, we strive to teach each child manners, kindness, and to be respectful towards others and their belongings. When a child displays inappropriate behavior towards others, he or she is encouraged to make amends through a sincere apology; all in a sustained effort to help teach children the basic understanding of right from wrong. Additionally sharing, taking turns, problem solving, and teamwork are stressed with equal importance, so that the children can learn to play harmoniously with one another.
We believe that the discipline of a child is achieved through patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement. One of the influential ways positive reinforcement is used, is during activities such as circle-time, reading, and etc. If two of the children amongst the group are listening well and paying attention, the teacher will commend the children who are following directions: “Thank you Tom and Sue for listening so well. Great job!” If a child is given the responsibility of carrying the pitcher of water to the lunch table, the teachers would say things such as: “Wow what a big boy, look how good you are carrying that pitcher of water and not spilling.” These subtle words spoken have the effect of reinforcing positive actions, and at the same time, drown out the influence of negative actions and thoughts, either upon oneself and/or from others in the group.
Children are explained the rules of the room frequently, so they know what is expected of them. Once a child is old enough to understand the rules and disobeys them, by exhibiting inappropriate behavior (hitting, aggression, etc), hurts others, or property, the following developmentally appropriate guidance techniques will be used.
- Positive Reinforcement: The child will be encouraged when he or she is demonstrating acceptable behavior.
- Redirection: The child is redirected to another activity and given an opportunity to try again at another time.
- Time Out: The child is separated from the group for an age appropriate amount of time (one minute per one year of age). This technique is only used when a child repeatably will not follow the teachers directions or listen to our words, is exhibiting temper tantrum type of behavior, or hurting one’s self, others or equipment. When the child shows that he or she is ready to demonstrate acceptable behavior, they are encouraged to join the rest of the group to try again.
- Last Resort: When a child’s behavior is continually upsetting or dangerous to others, a conference will be called with the parents. If the problems cannot be resolved, arrangements will have to be made for the child to go elsewhere for care.
Our childcare philosophy revolves around diligent care, integrity, attentiveness, development and fun! Our staff’s main goal is to ensure a structured, safe, fun and social environment for your child, where he or she looks forward to coming to daycare every single day.