Create a safe and supportive environment
The first principle is to make the environment safe and supportive.
Children tend to behave better in a pleasant, controlled environment where they are busy with activities they enjoy. This includes:
- the physical place (including how it’s furnished and decorated),
- the kinds of activities available, and
- the way people relate to each other.
Make sure the environment supports good behaviour. Look out for these things:
- A pleasant atmosphere is the norm.
- Children find the furniture and fittings easy to use. (They are ergonomically appropriate.)
- The room and its equipment are laid out attractively and invite children to play. (It stimulates learning.)
- You have eliminated anything that could stimulate behaviour problems.
- You cater for various levels of children’s activities so that they all have something to do that’s right for them.
- Everybody shows respect for each other. This means valuing individuals and making sure everyone is included, including children who are disabled, from non-English-speaking homes, and from other ethnic groups.
