Here are some tips on using positive support strategies for children's behaviour.
1. You show responsible behaviour
eg: you always use your manners when talking to children like saying please and thank you
2. Share your feelings
eg: say "I don't like it when..." or "it hurts my feelings when you ..."
3. Catch children being good
When a child shows responsible behaviour, tell them eg: "I loved it when you..."
4. Practice active listening
eg: say "I hear you" to children. If you don't understand what they are saying, repeat back to them what you think they are trying to tell you so they know they are being heard and respected.
5. Keep promises and be honest
eg: don't say "we will go outside" if you can't. This helps children trust you.
6. Reduce Temptation
eg: move things children are not supposed to touch up high or in a locked cupboard.
7. Choose your battles
Pull children up on things that really count and let little things go because children will get sick of hearing no or don't all the time and start to ignore you.
8. Don't give in to whining - hold your ground
9. Keep it simple and positive
eg: tell the child what they should be doing instead of what they shouldn't be doing like "please shut the gate" instead of "don't leave the gate open".
10. Consequences
Explain the consequences of the child's behaviour - this means what could happen if the behaviour keeps going. You can also make a consequence if the behaviour doesn't stop for example: you will not be able to play with that for a day.
11. Transition Time
eg: giving children a 5 minute warning before it is time to pack up or go inside so they know what to expect and don't fight you when it is time.
12. Keep your sense of humour
Don't tease but you can joke with kids and make them laugh.
13. Offer 2 choices
This helps children have some control over their own life and make their own decisions. eg: "you can pack up the sand pit or pack up the balls"; "you can wear a red t-shirt or a blue t-shirt".
Finally, like we learnt in Supporting Behaviour Part 2, it is important to understand the underlying causes of behaviour. Find out what could be stressing the child out first and then teach the child some skills to respond to that stress. So for example, doing some meditation or yoga could help a child who is very stressed.
Comments