A Good Friend:

is a good listener

is a good helper

is polite

shares

co-operates

​​​Behaviour Guidance Policy

Noah's Ark Playschool seeks to create a positive learning atmosphere in the classroom. Children's behavior will be guided to encourage self-respect, respect for others, respect for the property of others, and safety.

Opportunities to develop self-regulation skills and pro-social behaviors are provided abundantly within the nature of the program. Through negotiation in sharing materials, communicating ideas in collaborative play experiences, expressing emotions in respectful ways during disagreements and disappointments, etc. children are supported in developing skills in both areas. Through modeling, co-regulation, and verbal/physical prompts staff facilitate children in developing skills. Using ‘first/then’ speech, teaching children respectful language in exchanges ‘May I have a turn when you are all done?’, reminding children of expectations ‘Some for you, some for a friend,’ and by referring to ‘Good Friend Rules’ staff guide behaviors in this way. Staff work with the children to find ways to cope with strong feelings, so they do not become too overwhelming. By developing warm, responsive relationships children feel respected as individuals and know they will be comforted and supported in times of stress. This positive relationship promotes self-efficacy and allows children to practice new skills and learn from their mistakes. Consistent routines, predictable expectations, and structuring the environment are other ways we support the children in their ability to choose behaviors and learn pro-social skills.

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When behaviour guidance is required:

Ongoing behavioral concerns will be discussed with parents. If dangerous behavior continues and is hurtful to other children, the parent may be asked to remove the child from the program.


Staff of Noah’s Ark will not inflict or cause to be inflicted any form of physical punishment, verbal or physical degradation, or emotional deprivation. Nor will they deny, or threaten to deny, any necessity or use, or permit the use of any form of physical restraint, confinement, or isolation.


As a regular part of our curriculum throughout the year, we introduce the “We Thinkers” social-emotional concepts. Learning and language from this curriculum is also used to assist students in understanding and developing positive social/emotional competencies.