Creating a nurturing and orderly classroom environment is essential for young children to thrive. According to the Caring for Our Children (CFOC) standards, early educators are encouraged to implement proactive child guidance strategies to support children’s developmental growth. As Christian educators, we recognise the importance of helping children grow not just academically but also in their spiritual and character development, reflecting biblical truths such as self-control, kindness, and patience (Galatians 5:22-23). By addressing behaviours effectively and teaching the skills, educators can help children develop essential skills such as self-regulation, problem-solving, and communication.

Young children are still learning to manage emotions, communicate effectively, and navigate social situations. Without appropriate guidance, behaviours such as frustration or emotional outbursts can interfere with the classroom environment. Child guidance strategies offer a way to redirect these behaviours constructively, ensuring that all children feel safe, supported, and ready to learn. 

Five Effective Child Guidance Strategies

1. Modelling Positive Behaviour:

Learning happens in the context of relationships. Children learn best by observing the actions of trusted adults. By modelling patience, empathy, and problem-solving, educators can teach children how to interact positively with others. For example, during a disagreement, teachers can demonstrate how to express feelings and emotions and work toward a resolution. Use of puppets as a teaching prop can be helpful for re-enacting social situations and interactions.

2. Understand the Function of Behaviour:

Every behaviour serves a purpose, often as a way for children to communicate a need or emotion. Educators who can observe and identify the reasons behind behaviours are better equipped to address them effectively. For instance, a child displaying sadness during drop-off may be experiencing separation anxiety. The child may benefit from several reminders that they are safe and the family will be back. 

3. Establish Clear Expectations and Routines:

Children thrive in environments where routines are predictable and expectations are clear. Consistency helps reduce uncertainty and prevents behavioural challenges. For example, setting simple, clear expectations such as “show me walking feet” and maintaining a structured daily schedule can create a sense of security and promote positive behaviour. A strategy here is to have a picture schedule displayed of the day’s schedule and routine. 

4. Implement Positive Support:

Acknowledging and rewarding appropriate behaviour encourages its repetition. Positive feedback for positive behaviour can include verbal praise such as “I like how you are using your walking feet.” This approach reinforces and motivates children toward learning through repetition of appropriate behaviours and classroom expectations.

5. Teach Self-Regulation Skills:

Helping children develop self-regulation is crucial for managing emotions and behaviours. Techniques such as deep breathing or counting can assist children in calming themselves during stressful situations. A study published in the Early Childhood Education Journal emphasizes the importance of self-regulation in early childhood and offers strategies to promote it, including modelling appropriate behaviour, providing opportunities for children to practice self-control, and creating supportive environments that encourage autonomy and decision-making.

By implementing positive child guidance strategies, educators can create a supportive learning environment that fosters growth and cooperation. Let’s commit to helping children learn the foundational skills they need to succeed in lifelong learning.