Behavior Management Policy
Our approach focuses on positive guidance, emotional development, and respectful communication.
At First Step, we ALWAYS:
- Make eye contact when speaking to children
- Speak firmly but kindly
- Set direct and simple limits
- Remain aware of our language and tone
- Reward appropriate behavior
- Consistently go over and review classroom rules
At First Step, we NEVER:
- Use verbal abuse or corporal punishment
- Deny food or drink to a child for punishment
- Punish a child for soiling or wetting clothes
- Use physical restraint
- Isolate a child
- Encourage negative reinforcement
A child exhibiting a temper tantrum will be allowed to do so in an open and safe section of the classroom.
A staff member will remain with the child and continue to speak to them in a calm and kind tone.
If the child cannot regain their composure, or is endangering themselves or others, they will be removed
from the classroom and brought to a quieter space. A staff member will supervise the child and help
diffuse the situation.
If the child is still incapable of calming down, a parent or guardian will be contacted.
At First Step, we believe that when given the right guidance and tools, children have the ability to engage in problem solving and resolve problems on their own accord.
Rather than a “time out,” we bring children to a calm and quiet area where they can talk with an educator to calm down, reflect on feelings and emotions, and use the situation as a teachable moment.