Teetertots      

Our policy on discipline consists of emphasizing positive behavior, and providing skills and guidance to re-direct children into solving problems on their own with minimal teacher assistance. Teacher’s make themselves available to children at all times, and give children the tools and words to help them accomplish this task. We do not practice any form of corporal punishment, physical or emotional.
 
We believe that children have the right to express themselves and their feelings in any manner that is available to them, while maintaining the safety of all children in care. Children that wish to express themselves through screaming and yelling are permitted to do so, in a designated calming area free from other children, as some children do not have the appropriate words to express their feelings. In this scenario, when the child has calmed, the problem is discussed and child is provided with words he can use to express his feelings, and welcome to return to the area he was previously learning in.  After a five minute period, if the child is unable to calm himself, a teacher will provide the child with any necessary actions, to help calm him, such as cuddles, touch, closeness and discussion.
 
We use natural and logical consequences in managing children’s behaviour. A natural consequence is defined as a consequence that occurs from the behavior, such as, “when you throw the toys, they will break”. A logical consequence is defined as a consequence that is appropriate for the behavior, such as, “I see that you colored on the wall, here’s a cloth to clean it off”.
 
In addition to these consequences, we also limit the use of equipment, re-direct, and make minimal uses of time-out. To effectively use these strategies, first we remind children of the limit, “blocks are for building”, state the reason, “if you throw the blocks, someone could get hit, or hurt”, state the consequence,” if you continue to throw blocks, you will have to move to another area” , limit the use,”  because you’re still wanting to throw the blocks, you are done with them now,” re-direct, “there are balls in the nap room for throwing”, time out, “because you’re not choosing to use the balls, and are still throwing blocks, you need to come and sit with a box toy.”

We understand that all children are unique individuals, and that not all situations can be dealt with in the same manner. Children must be respected, taught self-worth, and feel valued in our Centre. The staff at Teeter Tots Early Learning Centre work together, to support and advocate for each other, as well as the children in attendance.