Teaching

We respect their choices and physical space, which means we do not force toilet training or demand eating 100% of their lunch. We do not employ punitive strategies such as isolation (time outs), shouting, withholding, shaming or threatening. We are not dismissive of children’s emotions but introduce tools for naming and understanding feelings. We are guardians and guides, not disciplinarians. Our job is to establish trust with each individual and to teach safety, self-care and concern for others.

– www.gentleteaching.com

As evidenced in Finland’s school system, which is ranked among the world’s best and does not introduce literacy until the age of seven, early introduction of formal study doesn’t equate to smarter children. We will never test your child or train them to be show ponies. You will recognise your child’s progress as they start to speak and understand English, singing songs from school in the bath; when they tell you about the crafts they bring home and all the fun facts about dinosaurs, oceans and houses they learn through curriculum-based, structured play. We want your child to feel as comfortable, safe and happy learning at Ryozan Park as they do playing at home.

There are many ways children try to understand the world as they grow. One way and stage would be at around 9 months when they put everything into their mouths. Another way and stage to explore their world would be at 12-36 months when they hug, pull, or push others.

Our goal is to allow the children to develop self-control, something that continues well past preschool. In Ryozan Park, a minimum number of rules are used to set and maintain limits since our students are still babies and toddlers. This is done in a consistent and positive manner with simple reasons and explanations.

Here are some tips:

When your child is calm, read stories or look at pictures about feelings. How does he feel? He’s angry. He wants the toy. (gestures) Encourage them to use words or ask for help from an adult. Say, “Toy, please.”

Try to catch your child being good. Reinforce good behavior with lots of physical (high fives or hugs) and verbal praise. “I like how you gently hugged your friend.”

Verbally or physically intimidating (shaking, pushing, threatening tone) only reinforces misbehavior.

When your toddler is aggressive, immediately and calmly remove them from the situation. Start counting silently to yourself and avoid eye contact. After a minute, offer correct behavior “Be gentle, okay?” Gesture on yourself and invite them to copy. Return the child to the activity and support or model proper behavior.

Avoid lecturing since they only understand simple consequences. “Do you want to play?” “We don’t hit/ grab/ bite.” (Gesture with yourself). Apologies should be quick to reduce attention. She is sad. Say “I’m sorry (name).” Return to the activity and quickly praise them for appropriate behavior.

As much as possible, respond to each episode the same way each time. Set up a pattern that your child eventually learns to recognize and expect. Increase the connection between desired behaviors and consequences.