Guidance Policy

  * The Arakelyan Family Child Care strives to build each child’s self-esteem, independence, and

  ability to socialize in a group. All guidance techniques are based upon knowledge of child 

  development and familiarity with the child. In our program we use non-punitive forms of 

  discipline and guidance:

 1. Positive Environment

    * There are choices for activities, supportive providers and an appropriately stimulating

       curriculum.

    * providers act as a role model, treating children and adults with respect.

    * Providers (and children) set reasonable and fair limits.

    * Providers reinforce positive behavior.

    * Flexibility is increased.

 2. Natural and Logical Consequences

    * Children are not punished. Rather there are consequences that naturally or logically follow.

       For example, if a child is throwing Legos he is showing that he is not able to play with them

       appropriately. The provider will remind him that Legos are for building. If the action

       continues then the child is done with the Legos for a period of time.

3. Separation

 * When a child is enraged or extremely upset he / she may need time and assistance in calming

       himself / herself. This is done by sitting with a child, often with a book or soothing activity.

       The child may always rejoin the group as soon as he / she is ready to do so. “Time-Out” is

       not used in this program. “Time-out” as it is currently practiced in society, is nothing more

       than punishment.

* Communication with parents occurs on an on-going basis. Therefore, parents should always know how their child or children are adjusting. When parents and / or providers feel that behavior or another issue is not improving, meetings may be scheduled with the provider and parents.

* If a child in the program harms another child, the caregiver will first attend to the child who is

  hurt, then proceed with the other child. The provider will inform both families of the incident.