The staff of Argonauta Christian School recognizes that many discipline problems can be prevented.  We feel many potential problems will not occur at our school due to careful scheduling of the day, appropriate expectations of individual children, the use of positive communication techniques, and structuring of the classroom environment.

Appropriate child behavior is encouraged through positive reinforcement, encouragement, and modeling.  In spite of all we do, inappropriate behavior sometimes does happen, but it is discouraged through:

• Structuring the environment
• Redirecting child’s behavior – perhaps repeatedly
• Appropriate “time out” management (Separating the child from others, but within view of the teacher in order to give the child time to collect himself/herself and think over the rules.)
• Following through – consistency is important
• Immediate response to behavior

Our staff avoids the use of negative discipline practices such as yelling at and embarrassing children.  Negative practices do not teach a child what is appropriate, do not change behavior in the long term, and may harm the relationship between the teacher and child.

The following guidelines are what we use with the children according to their age groups:

Ages 2-3

• Structure the environment
• Redirect
• Use of clear, simple language, i.e., directions, explanations
• Explanations of consequences
• Age appropriate choices
• Removal from the situation
• Help children express their feelings, if necessary

Ages 4-6

• Structure the environment
• Redirect
• Use of clear language, e.g., directions, explanations
• Age appropriate choices
• Have child explain consequences of his/her behavior and take responsibility for his/her behavior
• Problem solving – have child suggest alternate solutions for change
• Provisions for challenging activities
• Removal from situation

Our staff agrees that children must be disciplined in a respectful and constructive manner.  Children must not be subjected to discipline which is severe, humiliating, or frightening.  Discipline must not be associated with food, rest, or toileting.  Spanking, shaking, or any other form of physical punishment is prohibited.

Florida statutes state:  “All child care personnel of the child care facility must comply with the facility’s written disciplinary practices.  Such policies shall include standards that prohibit children from being subjected to discipline that is severe, humiliating, frightening, or associated with food, rest, or toileting.  Spanking or any other form of physical punishment is prohibited by all child care personnel."