DISCIPLINE

We are frequently asked how we discipline the children. Our answer never varies. We have three rules. Be safe, be kind and, be neat. Everything that the child does can be put into one of these categories and explained in a gentle, respectful manner. Children will always do the best they can. So we explain and connect these concepts at each level. It takes time for the concepts to be internalized but we have the time and the dedication. We are not a day care. We are a child development center. We consider every negative behavior as an opportunity to teach children the skills that they need.

PULL OUTS

Once inappropriate behavior has occurred it cannot be undone. The situation, however, can be turned into an opportunity to learn. We help children to understand consequences and how to build problem-solving skills. Our education specialists have the training to anticipate when a child is moving towards a situation they cannot handle. In these stress-building times, we pull the child out of the situation and talk with them about the problem solving skills they have learned. We provide the words when they struggle to express their feelings and thoughts. We model the behaviors to solve their problems.

This gives children ownership of their problems and the resulting consequences. It allows them to tell us how they are going to solve their problem. "STOP! I don't like that!" and/or "I wasn't done playing with that" and/or "I don't like it when you push me!" Are examples of verbal tools that Kid Kountry teaches children.

It is verbal expression combined with the acknowledgment of thoughts and feelings that are taught here. Use of these tools is quite an achievement for any 2, 3, 4 and 5 year old. But at Kid Kountry it is an everyday occurrence. Gradually, the children internalize this concept and you will hear them use it at home with siblings and friends. You may even find it directed towards yourself as they gain confidence and learn to express feelings. We encourage you to treat such expressions with the respect it deserves.

If a child is deeply troubled and needs help, the Kid Kountry staff know community resources. The pride in our program does not prevent us from recommending other resources. Our goal is a healthy child and we will gladly work with outside agencies. We welcome working with parents, as we know they are the best resource for their children.