Unacceptable behaviour is behaviour which:-

• Is dangerous, hurtful or offensive to someone else – other children, adults or animals;
• Is dangerous to the child himself/herself;
• Will make the child unwelcome or unacceptable to other people.
• Damages other people’s property.

I endorse Positive Discipline as an effective way of setting limits for children:
Rewarding good behaviour—rewards are constructive and encourage further effort. It should be noted that this does not mean giving out chocolate all the time, a kind word of praise is often sufficient reward.

Encouraging self-discipline and respect for others—because children need to grow into people who behave well even when there’s no-one to tell them what to do.

Setting realistic limits according to age and stage of development—because as children grow and develop, their understanding of the consequences of their behaviour increases and our expectations of them change.

Setting a good example—because young children take more notice of how we behave and what we say, they also like to copy.

Encouragement, not orders and instructions—because “Do as you’re told” and “Because I said so” teaches nothing for next time. Positive discipline means explaining why.

Praise, appreciation and attention—because when children are used to getting attention with good behaviour they won’t seek it by misbehaving.

Being consistent—saying no and meaning no—because children need to know where they stand and it helps if they know that we mean what we say.

Building children’s self-esteem—shaming, scolding, hurting and humiliating children can lead to even worse behaviour. Attention, approval and praise can build self-esteem and a child who feels valued is more likely to behave well.
Children are explained the rules of the house, so that they are familiar with the guidelines. I stress two main patterns of desired behaviour—respect for other people and respect for property. However, there WILL be disagreements between children. Young children especially, who are not adept at communication, have a hard time expressing their feelings. Sometimes they hit, throw toys or bite etc because of their frustration not because of any desire to hurt anyone.

When these situations occur the methods I use to manage unwanted behaviour are:-

• Challenging it immediately
• Explaining why it is unacceptable in a way suitable to the child’s level of understanding
• Distracting the child
• Offering an alternative way of doing things
• Removing the child from the situation
• Using sanctions if necessary eg, withholding treats or removing a toy for a short period

If a discipline problem arises that does not respond to the above mentioned techniques, I will request a meeting with the parents/guardians and together we will try to find a solution. You may be called to remove your child if his/her behaviour prevents us from being able to properly care for the other children. If the problem continues, sadly other arrangements for the care of the child may have to be made, for the safety and well-being of all.

Methods I do not use to manage unwanted behaviour:-

• Physical punishment including slapping, smacking, biting, shaking
• Verbal abuse/name calling
• Frightening or humiliating the child
• Withholding food or drink or sleep.
• Wilful destruction of property will be charged to the parent at cost to replace the item.

Rules are simple, clear and realistic. I take into account the child’s stage of development when encouraging the child to follow these rules and explaining why, and also in my expectation of the child’s behaviour.
I have drawn up a list of House Rules
Please support me in the enforcement of these boundaries
I recognise the importance of a positive, consistent approach and of giving plenty of praise and encouragement.