Austin, TX
Child's Day

Discipline

OVERALL RATING (4.2)

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

source:

Director's Description to School's Approach to Discipline

We use positive guidance and redirection with the children. By focusing on giving directions without negative language (can't, do not, etc.) children are relieved from trying to reverse the thought process and have a clear course of action. If a child is doing something unsafe, a limit is stated for them, and they are given a suggestion as to how they can fulfill that action safely. For example, 'If you need to throw something we can find a ball or a bean bag.'

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.'


As stated, the above comment is actually less emotional than it typically would be with a young child. It is an acceptable choice that Child A has made about how they want to spend their time. The teachers would help Child A make that statement as kindly as possible, and perhaps ask some open ended questions to help Child A make it clear to Child B why they are feeling that way today. They would also help Child B explore how they are feeling, and help them to find other ways to engage in the classroom if they needed assistance. Depending on the age of the children, they may also help them make a verbal 'date' for time they may reconnect later.

Parents' Notes on Discipline, Health and Safety

Parent #1
The school is located in an older building so that is why I didn't rate it as excellent condition.

Parent #2
The school uses space very imaginatively (for example, has built-in lofts in some classrooms, and astroturf on what would otherwise be a muddy playground) given that is part of an office building on a very shady lot.

Parent #3
Child's Day doesn't use "time out". instead, they ask the child to remove himself or herself from the group activity if need be, then try to help the child get themselves to a point that they are ready to re-join the group activity.

Health

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

source:

Safety

OVERALL RATING (4.4)
Screen and identify all visitors
Parents may not bring sick children to school where they may infect others

source:

Montessori? Waldorf? Play-based?

What school type is right for your child? Is one model better than another? What does the research say?

View an example from the Savvy Source guide to learn more.

This is a great memento from the holiday season. Dip your child's hand in white paint and press (read more)

Comment (2)

Share From Send A Link To Your Comments:

Take Our Expert Quiz

how is your toddler or preschooler progressing developmentally?