This guide will you answer 2.2 Explain how modelling positive behaviours impacts on children’s behaviour.
Modelling positive behaviour is essential in shaping children’s conduct and social skills. It’s about demonstrating desirable actions and attitudes that children can observe and mimic. As an Early Years Practitioner, your behaviour serves as a powerful tool in influencing how children behave and interact with others. Let’s dive into how showcasing positive behaviours impacts children’s development.
What is Modelling Behaviour?
Modelling behaviour involves demonstrating actions that you want children to learn and imitate. When you exhibit positive behaviours such as kindness, patience, and respect, children are likely to observe and copy these actions. It’s a fundamental aspect of social learning where children learn by watching and imitating the adults around them.
Why is Modelling Positive Behaviours Important?
Children are highly impressionable, especially during their early years. They look up to adults as role models. Therefore, consistently displaying positive behaviour can significantly influence children’s understanding of how to behave in social situations. Here are some reasons why modelling positive behaviours is crucial:
- Learn Social Norms: Children learn about social expectations and norms by observing adults. When you consistently model positive interactions, children learn what is considered acceptable behaviour.
- Builds Emotional Regulation: Watching adults manage their emotions calmly helps children learn to regulate their own emotions. They learn to respond to situations thoughtfully rather than impulsively.
- Promotes Empathy and Compassion: Demonstrating empathy and kindness teaches children to treat others with compassion and understanding.
- Encourages Cooperation and Sharing: When children see adults sharing and working together, they are more likely to replicate these behaviours in their interactions with peers.
How Modelling Positive Behaviours Impacts Children’s Behaviour
When you model positive behaviours, children receive direct and indirect messages about how to act and engage with the world around them. Here are detailed ways through which modelling impacts children’s behaviour:
Enhances Social Skills
Children learn how to interact appropriately with others by observing adults. For instance, when you greet children warmly and politely, they learn the importance of greeting others in a similar manner. They pick up on verbal and non-verbal cues, which are essential for effective communication.
Fosters Respect and Tolerance
By showing respect to others, regardless of background or differences, you teach children to do the same. This includes using polite language, listening actively, and valuing others’ opinions. It helps in creating an inclusive environment where children learn to accept and appreciate diversity.
Develops Problem-Solving Skills
Children who see adults handling conflicts calmly and constructively are more likely to develop effective problem-solving skills. For example, if a child sees you resolving a disagreement through conversation and compromise, they learn that conflicts can be managed without aggression or negativity.
Encourages Positive Self-Esteem
When you model positive self-talk and confidence, children learn to develop self-esteem. Complimenting yourself and recognising your achievements can show children the importance of self-recognition and self-worth.
Reduces Negative Behaviours
Children who regularly observe positive behaviour are less likely to engage in negative behaviours such as aggression or defiance. They learn that positive actions lead to positive outcomes, encouraging them to act in socially acceptable ways.
Practical Examples of Modelling Positive Behaviours
Here are specific examples of how you can model positive behaviours in an Early Years setting:
Showing Kindness
- Always use polite language such as “please” and “thank you.”
- Offer help to others and encourage children to do the same.
- Recognise and praise children when they show kindness to others.
Demonstrating Patience
- Wait your turn during group activities and gently remind children to do the same.
- Show understanding and patience when children make mistakes, offering guidance rather than punishment.
Being Respectful
- Listen attentively when children talk and validate their feelings.
- Always speak to children and colleagues respectfully, avoiding raised voices or harsh tones.
Practising Empathy
- Acknowledge children’s feelings, saying things like, “It looks like you’re feeling sad. Do you want to talk about it?”
- Model empathy by helping children understand how their actions affect others.
Strategies to Implement Modelling Positive Behaviours
Here are some strategies you can use to ensure you are effectively modelling positive behaviours:
Be Consistent
Consistency is key. Make sure to consistently exhibit positive behaviour regardless of the situation. This helps in reinforcing the behaviour in children’s minds.
Reflect on Your Behaviour
Regularly reflect on your behaviour and interactions. Consider how your actions might be perceived by children and whether they align with the behaviours you want to model.
Use Positive Reinforcement
Use positive reinforcement to encourage children when they display positive behaviours. A simple “Well done!” or a reward can motivate children to continue such behaviours.
Conclusion
Modelling positive behaviours is a powerful way to influence children’s conduct and social development. By demonstrating kindness, patience, respect, and empathy, you provide children with a blueprint for positive interactions. Consistent and mindful modelling helps shape children’s understanding of acceptable behaviour, promoting their social and emotional development. As an Early Years Practitioner, your behaviour sets the foundation for children’s future interactions, making it vital to lead by example.
