This guide will help you answer 3.1 Model positive behaviour to encourage social skills within an Early Years Setting as appropriate to the stage and needs of individual children.
As an Early Years Practitioner, a fundamental aspect of your role involves modelling positive behaviour. This task not only sets a standard for children but also encourages them to develop essential social skills. Understanding the importance of modelling positive behaviour and implementing this strategy effectively can have a profound impact on young children’s development, particularly in a setting such as a nursery or pre-school.
Understanding Positive Behaviour Modelling
Modelling positive behaviour means demonstrating the behaviours, attitudes, and interactions you wish the children to emulate. Children are keen observers and often imitate the actions and emotions of adults around them. Hence, exhibiting patience, empathy, kindness, and respectful communication provides children with concrete examples of how to interact with others.
Tailoring Behaviour to Individual Needs
Each child is unique, with their own set of developmental stages and personal needs. Therefore, it’s crucial to adapt your behaviour modelling to suit individual children. This personalised approach ensures that each child can benefit from learning appropriate social skills at their own pace and in a manner relevant to their current abilities.
Assessing Developmental Stages
Understanding the different stages of child development helps you adapt your approaches. For example:
- Infants (0-2 years): At this stage, children learn through sensory experiences and simple interactions. Smiling, making eye contact, and gentle touch are potent gestures.
- Toddlers (2-3 years): Toddlers begin to understand basic social concepts. Use simple words to express emotions, share toys, and take turns.
- Preschoolers (3-5 years): Preschoolers start to grasp more complex social norms. Explain and demonstrate concepts like empathy, cooperation, and problem-solving.
Considering Individual Needs
Some children might have specific needs, which could be related to behaviour, learning difficulties, or even cultural backgrounds. Be aware of these needs and model inclusive, patient, and understanding behaviour to foster an environment where every child feels valued.
Key Strategies to Model Positive Behaviour
Here are some practical strategies for modelling positive behaviour within an Early Years setting:
Use Positive Language and Reinforcement
Language is a powerful tool. Speak to the children using positive language, focus on what they can do rather than what they can’t. For example:
- Instead of saying “Don’t run,” say “Please walk inside.”
- Praise children when they display good behaviour. This reinforces that their actions are noticed and appreciated.
Demonstrate Respectful Interactions
Show respect in your interactions with both children and colleagues. Listen actively when others speak, maintain eye contact, and respond thoughtfully. This behaviour teaches children the importance of mutual respect and effective communication.
Practice Active Listening
Active listening involves not just hearing but really understanding what the child is trying to communicate. Get down to their level, make eye contact, and acknowledge their feelings. This fosters an environment where children feel heard and valued, encouraging them to express themselves and listen to others.
Encourage Cooperative Play
Cooperative play is essential for developing social skills like sharing, taking turns, and working together. Engage with children in group activities and games that require cooperation. Model how to share resources, resolve conflicts amicably, and celebrate collective achievements.
Modelling Through Daily Routines
Routine activities offer numerous opportunities to model positive behaviour. Here’s how you can incorporate behaviour modelling into common daily activities:
During Circle Time
Circle time is a structured opportunity for children to interact and learn together. Demonstrate patience and active listening when each child has their turn to speak. Teach children to wait, listen, and respond respectfully.
Meal and Snack Times
Meal and snack times are perfect for modelling table manners, sharing, and conversation skills. Show children how to say “please” and “thank you,” pass items around the table, and engage in polite conversation.
Transition Times
Transitions between activities can be stressful for children. Model calm and orderly behaviour during these times. Use songs, countdowns, or visual cues to help children understand what’s coming next and how to move smoothly from one activity to another.
Handling Challenging Behaviour
Addressing challenging behaviour is an integral part of modelling positive behaviour. Always approach such situations calmly and constructively.
Stay Calm and Consistent
Children often mimic adult reactions. Staying calm during challenging situations helps children learn self-regulation. Consistency is key—apply the same rules and consequences every time to create a secure and predictable environment.
Use Conflict Resolution Techniques
Teach and model simple conflict resolution techniques. For example, use “I” statements to express feelings without blaming, help children articulate their own feelings, and guide them to find mutually acceptable solutions.
Creating a Positive Environment
A positive environment naturally fosters positive behaviour. Ensure that the setting is welcoming and inclusive, filled with positive affirmations and encouraging messages. Provide resources that reflect diversity and promote understanding and respect for differences.
Building Relationships with Families
Partnering with families strengthens your behaviour modelling efforts. Share strategies with parents and carers, so children receive consistent messages at home and in the setting. Regular communication, such as through newsletters or parent meetings, helps keep everyone on the same page.
Reflecting and Improving Your Practice
Continuous reflection and improvement are crucial. Observe how children respond to your modelling and be willing to adapt your approach. Discuss strategies and experiences with colleagues, and seek training opportunities to enhance your skills further.
Conclusion
Modelling positive behaviour is a powerful and effective method to encourage social skills in young children. By tailoring your approach to the developmental stages and individual needs of each child, using positive reinforcement, and embedding these strategies in daily routines, you help lay a strong foundation for their social development. Remember, your own behaviour is the most potent teaching tool in an Early Years setting, and by consistently demonstrating kindness, respect, and empathy, you actively contribute to nurturing well-rounded, socially adept individuals.
