This guide will help you answer 3.1 Use agreed strategies for managing behaviour.
Managing behaviour in early years settings is a vital part of fostering a positive, productive environment where children can learn and thrive. When we talk about “agreed strategies for managing behaviour,” we refer to the specific methods and techniques that have been collectively decided upon and are consistently used by all staff to promote desirable behaviour and address challenging behaviour.
Consistency is key in behaviour management. When practitioners use the same strategies, children understand what is expected of them. This uniformity provides children with a sense of safety and predictability. Additionally, agreed strategies ensure that all staff members support one another and maintain a cohesive approach to behaviour management.
What Are Agreed Strategies?
Agreed strategies are methods and techniques that a setting’s team have collectively decided upon to manage children’s behaviour. These strategies will vary depending on the setting, the needs of the children, and the professional guidance the team follows. Common strategies include:
- Positive Reinforcement: Encouraging good behaviour through praise and rewards.
- Clear Boundaries and Rules: Setting and maintaining clear and consistent rules.
- Time-out or Thinking Time: Giving children a moment to calm down and reflect on their behaviour.
- De-escalation Techniques: Strategies to calm down a potentially volatile situation before it escalates.
- Role Modelling: Demonstrating positive behaviour for children to emulate.
Positive Reinforcement
Positive reinforcement involves rewarding a child when they display good behaviour. This can be verbal praise, stickers, or extra playtime. The key is to make the reward immediate and appropriate to the behaviour you are trying to encourage.
Examples:
- Verbal Praise: Saying, “Well done for sharing your toys!”.
- Stickers or Certificates: Awarding a sticker or certificate for a week of good behaviour.
- Additional Playtime: Extending playtime as a reward for helping tidy up.
Clear Boundaries and Rules
Children need clear and consistent boundaries. Rules should be simple, clear, and age-appropriate. It’s vital that all staff apply these rules consistently and fairly.
Examples:
- Circle Time Discussions: Discussing the rules with children so they understand what is expected.
- Visual Aids: Using visual charts or symbols to depict the rules.
- Regular Reminders: Gently reminding children of the rules during activities.
Time-out or Thinking Time
Time-out or thinking time allows children to calm down and think about their behaviour. This strategy should be used sparingly and thoughtfully.
How to Implement:
- Calmly Explain: Tell the child why they need some time out.
- Designated Space: Have a specific, calm area where the child can sit.
- Timed Duration: Keep the duration appropriate for the child’s age (usually a minute for each year of age).
De-escalation Techniques
De-escalation techniques help prevent a situation from getting out of control. These techniques focus on calming the child rather than disciplining them immediately.
Techniques Include:
- Remaining Calm: Use a calm voice and body language.
- Distraction: Redirect the child’s attention to something else.
- Empathy: Acknowledge the child’s feelings and provide reassurance.
Role Modelling
Children learn a great deal from observing adults. Role modelling involves demonstrating the behaviour you expect from children.
Examples:
- Respectful Communication: Always speak politely and respectfully to others.
- Problem-Solving: Show how to resolve conflicts calmly and fairly.
- Routine Following: Consistently follow the same rules and routines expected of the children.
Implementing Agreed Strategies
Communication and Training
Ensure that all staff members are knowledgeable about the agreed strategies. Regular training sessions and team meetings are essential for maintaining consistency.
- Induction: Include behaviour management strategies in the induction programme for new staff.
- Ongoing Training: Provide regular updates and refresher courses.
- Team Meetings: Use team meetings to discuss and review behaviour management strategies.
Consistency in Approach
All staff must implement the strategies consistently. Children should receive the same responses to their behaviour from all staff members.
- Shared Understanding: Ensure everyone understands why consistency is crucial.
- Observations and Feedback: Regularly observe staff and provide constructive feedback.
Parental Involvement
Involving parents in behaviour management strategies is crucial. Consistency between home and the setting can significantly reinforce positive behaviour.
- Communication: Share the agreed strategies with parents and carers.
- Workshops: Offer workshops or information sessions for parents.
- Feedback: Regularly communicate with parents about their child’s progress and behaviour.
Challenges and Solutions
Addressing Resistance
There may be resistance from staff or parents who are used to different behaviour management styles. Address this by:
- Inclusive Discussions: Involve everyone in discussions about the strategies.
- Evidence-Based Practice: Use evidence to show the benefits of the agreed strategies.
- Supportive Environment: Create a supportive environment where everyone feels comfortable implementing the strategies.
Adapting to Individual Needs
Children are unique, and one strategy may not work for all. Be flexible and ready to adapt approaches as needed.
- Individual Behaviour Plans: Develop personalised plans for children with specific needs or challenging behaviour.
- Professional Guidance: Seek support from specialists such as child psychologists or SENCOs (Special Educational Needs Coordinators) when necessary.
Monitoring and Reviewing Strategies
Regularly review the agreed strategies to ensure they are effective. Involve all staff in this process and be open to making changes if needed.
- Feedback Loops: Encourage staff to provide feedback on the strategies.
- Regular Reviews: Schedule regular reviews of behaviour management practices.
- Adaptation: Be prepared to adapt strategies based on feedback and observations.
Conclusion
Using agreed strategies for managing behaviour in early years settings is crucial for creating a safe, consistent, and supportive environment for children. By employing techniques such as positive reinforcement, clear boundaries, time-out, de-escalation, and role modelling, and by ensuring constant communication and training among staff and involving parents, practitioners can effectively manage behaviour and support children’s developmental needs. Regular monitoring and willingness to adapt will ensure these strategies continue to meet the needs of all children in the setting.
