Guidance Policy

Guidance Policy:

Gentle instructional guidance is a natural extension of the Montessori philosophy. Appropriate behavior is modeled and reinforced as desirable and preferable. Good discipline is essentially self discipline, which is taught by example and supported through the classroom teachings. We believe that all behaviors are communication, and it is the goal of our staff to ascertain what is being communicated so that we can respond to, and redirect communication attempts, as necessary.

Courtesy and respect for oneself, fellow classmates, teachers and the environments are important elements in the Montessori classroom and will be expected from all participants. Children at Four Seasons will develop life long patterns of self discipline, control and respect.

Staff will create clear and consistent limits for our children, while reinforcing positive behavior and providing acceptable choices in all situations. Children will learn to use their verbal abilities, social interactions and cognitive skills to facilitate problem solving and conflict resolution that is respectful and peaceful.

Four Seasons is a "hands off" center and staff will use a respectful tone and approach when addressing all children and issues that may arise naturally in the learning environment. Our staff will first use gentle redirection, reminders of the limits and expectations, and acknowledgment or affirmation of feelings to assist children. Staff will offer appropriate choices and teach skills of communication and self calming when needed. Natural and logical consequences are the best teaching tools for creating children who are capable, self sufficient and confident, these will be used whenever appropriate and safe. In extreme situations children will be asked to take some quiet time for themselves to regain control, children will always be supervised and supported during these times.

Violence, bullying and teasing are not acceptable behaviors at the center. Children are taught the differences between acceptable behavior and behavior which is socially undesirable or cruel. We are a part of this learning curve. It is important to discern between mean-spiritedness, which is not tolerated, and awkward social skills, which requires understanding, patience and education to allow all children to succeed socially. We will sensitively consider each individual case. We will consider the individual relationships of those involved so we may intervene in the most appropriate manner.

Children will have issues with each other from time to time in the classroom. Parents are not to intervene with other family’s children directly to solve any of these problems. All concerns must be directed to the staff.

The staff follows the provincial discipline policy guidelines. Further information can be found at http://www.hls.gov.bc.ca/ccf/publications/index.html Publication: Guiding Children’s Behaviour.

4960 Hammond Bay Road, Nanaimo, BC V9T 5B4