Much of early childhood discipline takes the form of "preventative measures."
When
- a learning environment is appropriate and carefully set up,
- the routine provides alternate scheduling of active and quiet activities,
- there are good transitions between activities,
- there are simple, easily understood rules,
- there is re-direction of misbehavior,
- then, little of what we normally term "discipline" must take place.
When, in spite of these measures, inappropriate behavior continues to occur, discipline is handled with dialogue, patience, and love. A child will be asked to leave a learning center or activity where he/she continues to act inappropriately. Brief time outs may be used to help a child regain control of his actions and emotions. These time outs are often spent at the playdough table or in the quiet corner with relaxing activities.
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