At Back to the Garden Childcare, we believe that behaviour management is about more than just correcting actions; it’s about guiding children as they learn to navigate the world around them. We understand that each child is unique, and so too should be our approach to their development. Our settings in Altrincham, Lymm, and Bowdon (coming soon in 2025) are committed to fostering an environment where positive behaviour management takes centre stage.
The Power of Positive Behaviour Management
At Back to the Garden Childcare, we have a fundamental belief that the words we use and the way we approach behaviour management can significantly impact a child’s development. That’s why our policy excludes the word “no” and avoids labelling children as “naughty.” Instead, we focus on understanding that children are continuously learning how the world works and that mistakes are a natural part of this journey. Our positive behaviour management strategy is designed to support and encourage children every step of the way.
Key Elements of Our Positive Behaviour Management Strategy
- Knowing the Children: We take the time to get to know each child individually, understanding their needs, preferences, and triggers. This helps us tailor our approach to best support their development.
- Modelling Behaviour: Our educators lead by example, demonstrating positive behaviour in every interaction. Children learn by observing, and by consistently modelling kindness, respect, and empathy, we help them internalise these values.
- Creating a Calm and Safe Environment: A peaceful setting is crucial for children to feel secure and ready to learn. We design our spaces to be calm, welcoming spaces where children can explore and grow without fear.
- Self-Regulation Strategies: We equip children with the tools they need to manage their emotions and behaviours. Through guided activities and discussions, children learn how to identify their feelings, cope with challenges, and respond to situations in positive ways.
- Support and Encouragement: Encouragement is key to building confidence and resilience in children. We celebrate their successes, however small, and provide gentle guidance when they face difficulties.
- Positive Interaction: Daily positive interactions are at the heart of our approach. Whether it’s through praise, smiles, or gentle guidance, we make sure every child feels valued and supported.
Encouraging Safe Risk-Taking and Learning from Mistakes
By fostering a supportive environment, we encourage children to take risks with their learning and embrace mistakes as part of their journey. This approach helps them build resilience and understand that failure is not something to fear, but an opportunity to learn and grow.
Expectations and Individual Treatment
In each room at Back to the Garden Childcare, classroom expectations are co-created by staff and children. These might include principles like respecting belongings, using kind hands, feet, and words, listening, sharing, and always being kind to nature. We believe that any behaviour management strategy should have a positive effect on a child’s development, and each child must be treated as an individual throughout this process.
Our Ethos: Beyond Behaviour
We teach children that they are not defined by their behaviour; rather, they are the individuals learning to manage it. This distinction is crucial in helping them develop a positive self-image and a growth mindset.
For more insights into our approach, pick up a pamphlet at our settings or visit our latest reel here.
A resource we use in all of our settings is The Colour Monster by Anna Llenas.
