San Francisco, CA
Laurel Hill Nursery School and Pre-Kindergarten

Discipline

OVERALL RATING (4.6)

Parents at this school, on average, believe that conflicts between children:
...are handled extraordinarily well in a way that not only gives me confidence in the safety of my child but also reassures me that my child (and his/her peers) are learning the early skills needed to socialize effectively with one another

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Director's Description to School's Approach to Discipline

One of the most important functions performed at the nursery school is to help children find acceptable and fulfilling ways to express feelings. If a child's frustration is unbearable, we can help the child to solve the problem; if a child's anger is uncontrollable, we remove the child from the source. Accepting emotions does not imply accepting the behavior they produce. Understanding a child's anger does not mean that we tolerate biting, hitting or scratching. We can help to prevent tension and frustration by controlling the environment, by having enough similar toys to reduce competition, by providing opportunities for participation, by finding a quiet spot or activity when there is over stimulation. When necessary, we step in to prevent hurt and help the children resolve conflicts. As a group of teachers and parents, we discuss ways to prevent problems in advance and to intervene when issues arise in play.

Director's Response to a Sample Discipline Scenario

Description of how teachers handle the following scenario: Child A and Child B are good friends and usually play together. One day, Child A decides to play with Child C and tells Child B, 'I don't want to play with you today. I'm playing with Child C instead.'


We place a high value on the learning that comes from children interacting in a free play environment. During incidents where one or more children are excluded, we work on a case by case basis to support each child in learning how treat others with respect and consideration. We look at what play is going on and talk with children about how they can include each other. We encourage the children to share their feelings in ways that do not hurt other's feelings. We support children in their understanding that they can return to play with each other at another time. Over time, children develop the skills they need to work through these incidents and learn to value and care for all of their play partners.

Parents' Notes on Discipline, Health and Safety

Parent #1
There is never enough space if you have 20 kids cooped up in a classroom and its raining outside.

Parent #2
The best outdoor play area I have ever seen.

Parent #3
We could not be more happy with how discipline is handled at LHNS. The teachers ALWAYS talk to the two or three children involved in a conflict about each of their perspectives. The children learn to express their feelings, how to respect their bodies and those of their classmates, how to be respectful of personal space. Our child learned how to speak up for herself, respect herself and be kind and respectful of others at LHNS. This is not to say there's no conflict; there's plenty, and it's all good. Children are not coddled here. They're given the tools they need to grow emotionally and socially.

Health

OVERALL RATING (4.4)
Temperature and overall air circulation is comfortable
Healthy and nutritious snacks are provided
Toys and furniture are cleaned regularly

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Safety

OVERALL RATING (4.3)
Screen and identify all visitors
Parents may not bring sick children to school where they may infect others

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