Positive Social Interaction
In accordance with the Centre’s program statement and the Child Care and Early Years Act, the Centre will support positive interactions between children, families, staff and the community, rather than “managing” a child’s behaviour. Children who attend programs where they experience warm, supportive relationships are happier, less anxious and more motivated to learn than those who do not. Further, by responding positively to children’s cues and engaging in reciprocal interactions with them, we are supporting the development of secure relationships. Experiencing positive relationships in early childhood also has significant long-term impacts on physical and mental health, and success in school and beyond.
In using a positive approach to guide children, employees should use the following methods in their interactions with children in order to establish and maintain positive interactions:
- Positive role-modeling by demonstrating appropriate ways of interacting
- Providing logical consequences for behavior
- Using a calm voice
- Providing consistent messaging to children
- Speaking at children’s level
- Asking for assistance when required
- Following through on agreed upon messages
- Redirecting to appropriate activities or behaviours
- Providing opportunities for self-regulation by outlining appropriate choices for children and supporting a child’s ability to gain control
- Adhering to Kids Come First’s Program Statement and philosophy
Rather than reprimanding children for undesirable behaviours, Employees should assist the child in finding new ways to achieve their goals. For example:
- Look for the root cause of behavior
- Reduce stressors
- Support children’s efforts to initiate and join in play with others
- Acknowledge that each child is competent, curious and rich in potential
- Give choice whenever and wherever possible,
- Notice, acknowledge and document positive interactions and attempts at self-regulation, and share this information with the child and family to gain insight
Remember at all times that a child should feel a sense of belonging among children, adults and the world around them.