BEHAVIORAL POLICY:

Purpose

The purpose of this policy is to ensure a positive, nurturing, and safe environment for all children and staff. Clear behavioral expectations and consistent responses help children learn appropriate social skills and understand the consequences of their actions.

Behavioral Expectations

Children are expected to:

    •    Treat others with kindness and respect

    •    Follow directions from staff

    •    Use appropriate language and behavior

    •    Keep hands, feet, and objects to themselves

    •    Respect toys, materials, and property

    •    Participate in activities and routines

Positive Reinforcement Strategies

Our facility emphasizes positive guidance. We promote good behavior through:

    •    Praise and encouragement

    •    Clear and consistent rules

    •    Modeling appropriate behavior

    •    Redirecting inappropriate behavior

    •    Using age-appropriate conflict resolution techniques

Unacceptable Behaviors

While occasional misbehavior is a normal part of development, the following behaviors are not acceptable and will be addressed:

    •    Aggressive actions (hitting, biting, kicking, screaming uncontrollably, etc.)

    •    Bullying or intimidation

    •    Destruction of property

    •    Defiance or refusal to follow instructions

    •    Inappropriate language or gestures

Response to Behavioral Issues

Our steps for addressing behavioral concerns are as follows:

1. Verbal Reminder

    •    Child is reminded of the expected behavior and encouraged to make a better choice.

2. Redirection

    •    Child is redirected to a new activity or location to calm down and refocus.

3. Time Away (Time-In)

    •    Child is guided to a quiet space for a short period to reflect (typically 1 minute per year of age). Staff remain nearby and supportive.

4. Parent/Guardian Communication

    •    Ongoing issues will prompt a conversation with parents/guardians to discuss strategies and supports.

5. Behavioral Support Plan (if needed)

    •    A written plan may be developed in collaboration with parents and staff for children with recurring issues or special needs.

6. Temporary Suspension or Dismissal

    •    If a child's behavior poses ongoing safety risks or disrupts the learning environment despite interventions, temporary suspension or permanent dismissal may be considered as a last resort.

7. We reserve the right to send a child home that has behavior that requires one-on-one attention i.e. dangerous, violent, angry, and uncontrollable outburst as well as multiple bathroom accidents in one day. No refunds/transfers will be given. NO EXCEPTIONS!