It is the intent of Thornhill Child Care centre to ensure that any disciplinary
action will be age appropriate and positive.

Methods

Discipline will not include any physical punishment, hitting, spanking,
shoving, or require a child to repeat inappropriate physical movements.
Discipline will also not include any abusive language, loud and/or
aggressive statements.

Limits will be set for children using logical consequences to help them
take responsibility for their own actions. This type of discipline shows
respect for the child's feelings, and will help him/her gain control of his/her
own actions. Positive direction and guidelines set by the teachers will help
the children learn and understand limits.

Positive reinforcement of desirable behavior(s) will be the predominant
discipline style. Children tend to repeat those behaviors that are satisfying
and rewarding.

"Time away " is used as a last alternative. This time is used when a child
would benefit by calming down, gathering himself/herself, or perhaps just
taking a break from the situation. It is not in any specific "corner", it is an
area away from the others. Children are asked to discuss the situation with
the teacher prior to returning to the group. A teacher will approach the child
within a few minutes to discuss their feelings if they do not approach first.
A maximum guideline that we follow is three minutes for three year olds, four
minutes for four year olds, and five minutes for five year olds. It is unlikely
that time-out be used with toddlers, however if they are continually hitting
their friends, teachers will remove them to another area/activity so that they
are less likely to hurt others.

Back to top