An Eclectic Approach To Child Guidance
AN ECLECTIC APPROACH TO CHILD GUIDANCE
To begin with, my philosophy for child guidance would emphasize
understanding the unique qualities and experiences of each child as
influenced by emotional and cognitive development, family
situation, social environment, and personality.
I believe children should be treated with respect and dignity. I
would only use child guidance techniques that are positive and
emotionally supportive of each child.
The approach I would use to guidance and discipline begins with
modeling appropriate care for the environment, positive
interactions between staff and children, and gentle reminders of
expected behaviors. “Limit setting” (discipline) is done in a
predictable, clear, and sensitive manner. Limits to be set are, two
areas of importance: not hurting oneself or others, and respecting
everything in the environment. I would also set the environment to
minimize the necessity of limits and share control with the children
in the decision-making process. In establishing guidance
techniques, Primary goal is to support the child in developing
awareness in these two areas and then establishing effective “inner
discipline” or self control. This reduces their dependence on adult-
imposed control. Positive guidance techniques, such as redirection
or facilitated problem solving are successful in helping children
resolve conflicts, or in learning acceptable behaviors. Adults,
parents, and teachers would be encouraged to assist children in
identifying the problem or issue, and work through the resolution
with patience, care and understanding. Children are allowed to
share and express their emotions to learn how to deal with their
feelings and to feel accepted for who they are.
Children are our future. How we treat and educate young children
will affect our future. I believe that positive early childhood
experiences affect children's...