Specific discipline techniques will be discussed at the first parent meeting in the fall. 

Here are some general principles that guide our discipline practices:

We believe that children do not want to misbehave or cause problems for others.  Difficult behavior is usually an attempt on the part of a child to state a need. 

Every attempt is made to figure out the need and tell the child about it.  The adults at The Family School always try to state the desired behavior positively instead of negatively. For example, a child continually climbing on the chairs and tables, might be told “You need to climb. You want to move your arms and legs. Outside there is a climber.” 

The school environment is set up so that, as far as possible, children may touch and use everything within reach.  This helps limit conflicts between children and staff or among children.  If a child is using a piece of equipment inappropriately, he or she is re-directed or confronted with the logical consequences of behavior.  For instance, those who throw sand may not play with sand until they learn to pour and dig in it instead.  The may, however, choose another activity.

A child may need to show his or her anger. The adults at The Family School will help children label their emotions and will assist children in controlling their behavior.

The Family School Director, certified by CPI, trains all staff in crisis prevention.

No child will be spanked or otherwise physically disciplined.

No child will be shamed or humiliated.