Guidance Principles Examples

Use a relaxed voice.

When the children are talking loud at the snack table, the teacher whispers, "What is your favorite thing to do when you are outside?"

Use simple language.

A teacher says, "Be careful. That paper is delicate." Then she says, "Delicate means it will tear easily"s

Give positive directions.

A teacher says, "Sit on the chair" instead of "Don't sit on the table."

Give choices with care.

A teacher says, "Would you like to pour your juice first or would you like to put your crackers on your plate?"

Encourage indpendence and cooperation.

A teacher says, "Ask Jasper to help you carry this big block."

Be lovingly firm.

When a child continues to bump the bike in front of her, the teacher says, "Park the bike and find a new place to play. You may try again tomorrow."

Be consistent.

The teacher requires the children to sit on their bottom every time they go down the slide.

Provide time for change

The teacher says, "We have 5 minutes before we will start cleaning up."

Consider feelings.

The teacher says, "You seem really sad that Billy won't let you play with the truck."

Intervene when necessary.

When the children are building a grocery store in the block area, the teacher adds some paper bags and a cash register to their play.