Students and I will be establishing rules together and I will share those with you when they are written.
When children make mistakes following the rules that we've established, I'll help them solve the problems caused by their mistakes through the use of "logical consequences." I will help students see the effects of their actions, repair the situation, and learn to do better next time.
Three types of commonly used logical consequences are:
- A short time in the "Better Choices Chair." This designated space allows a child a time and place to think and regain control. Children can go here voluntarily. (Yes, I have been known to go there too. It's actually peaceful!)
- Loss of a privilege. If a child misuses a material or acts out during an activity s/he is told to stop. Later, I have the child practice the appropriate behavior(s) with me and then s/he can resume the activity knowing s/he can be successful.
- "You break it, you fix it." If a child damages something or hurts someone's feelings, I encourage her/him to take responsibility and to try to make it right. The children are taught to use an "apology of action." This means taking action beyond verbally saying "sorry." For example, if a block tower gets knocked over, a student might help rebuild it. If feelings get hurt, a recess play date might be arranged to help strengthen the friendship.