CHILD GUIDANCE POLICY

At Happy Hearts Daycare, we are committed to creating a safe, nurturing and respectful environment where children feel valued and supported. Our goal is to promote positive behavior and self-esteem through guidance and structured routines.

Discipline Guidance: Our staff use positive reinforcement and redirection strategies to guide behavior. The following progressive steps are applied when necessary:

  • First Instance: Redirection to another
  • Second Instance: Discussion with the child to understand the issue and address emotions.
  • Third Instance: Use of a time-out chair for an age-appropriate
  • If Behavior Persists: A visit to the Director’s office, loss of privileges and parent notification for reinforcement at home.

In cases of continued behavioral concerns, dismissal from the daycare may be considered at the discretion of the Director.

Prohibited Disciplinary Actions:

  • No physical punishment including shaking, jerking, pinching or rough handling.
  • No verbal abuse threats, profanity or belittling remarks toward children or their families.
    • No isolation in dark rooms or unsupervised
    • No use of mechanical or physical
    • No unsupervised Children
    • No Physical Devices

Any staff member found violating these guidelines will face immediate dismissal and be reported to the appropriate authorities.

BEHAVIOR GUIDANCE POLICY

Our behavior guidance approach is focused on helping children develop self-regulation and social skills within a safe and supportive environment. We establish clear expectations and provide consistent support tailored to each age group.

Infants & Toddlers (12 months – 3 years)

  • Staff use positive reinforcement and redirection to guide behavior
  • Simple, positively worded directions are used
  • Aggressive behaviors, such as biting are managed with patience and redirection
  • Playroom environments are structured to provide predictability and support emotional development.

Preschoolers (3 years – 6 years)

  • Staff promote self-control by offering quiet spaces for reflection and setting clear, age-appropriate limits
  • Positive reinforcement is used to encourage social skills such as

cooperation and problem-solving

  • Staff provide opportunities for children to make choices and practice decision-making in a supportive setting.

Out-of-School Care (6 years – 12 years)

  • Children are encouraged to make their own decisions with guidance when needed
  • Staff support the development of conflict resolution and interpersonal skills through group activities and open discussions
  • Calm, respectful discussions are used to help children understand and manage frustrating situations
  • Positive reinforcement is provided when children demonstrate self-regulation and problem-solving skills.

General Behavior Management for All Ages: If a situation escalates beyond a staff member’s control, a co-worker is expected to intervene to ensure the child’s emotional and physical well-being. The original staff member may return to the child once they feel ready. Persistent behavioral concerns will be documented in an incident report for parents to review and sign.