At Jowonio, we respect each child and respond to his/her needs and abilities in terms of behavior. We find there are two important variables in helping children develop control and learn social skills: consistent and warm responses by the adults in their environment and attention to preventive classroom structure (e.g. routines, organization of space, choice of materials, teacher cues and presentation of tasks). If an issue arises between children or between adults and children, we first seek to use a problem-solving approach, encouraging children to generate alternatives for dealing with a particular situation. We may do this by discussion or role-playing. We use positive reinforcement of appropriate behaviors and natural consequences (e.g. if you throw your cup of juice, you have no more juice and you need to clean up the mess). The most effective intervention with behavior is prevention. We interpret behavior as communication and as a reaction to people and the environment. We assess what in the environment we can change to help a child be successful. Secondly, we teach children positive ways to express their needs and wants. So many of the behaviors that are frustrating to adults are appropriate…the result of children expressing their independence, the need for attention or a response to sensory overload. We might ignore the negative behaviors and redirect a child to positive behaviors. When children are not able to respond to a verbally directed problem solving approach because of their ability to communicate or their emotional state, we intervene to keep all individuals safe. We do not believe in aversive approaches such as seclusion, physical punishment or physical restraint.

Click on the links below to read more about behaviors.

Teaching Caring

Teaching Children to Resolve Conflicts

Limits in a Loving Environment