Berkeley, CA
Aquatic Park School

Discipline

OVERALL RATING (4.8)

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

Hands off. We use redirection and have a conflict resolution process. We try to explore the feelings behind the actions.

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.'


Teachers here would first check with child B to see how they are feeling:
1 - are they hurt and how (feelings)
2 - what other choices could they make with the info they have.

Parents' Notes on Discipline, Health and Safety

Parent #1
When my daughter was 2-ish she became a biter, which was embarrassing and frustrating for us. The director and staff really worked with her and us in the most positive way: identifying the situations where she would lash out (example: if she was playing and got cornered by another child, or bunched up with others in close quarters), and getting her out of those situations quickly and gently; helping her to redirect her aggression, giving us tools to work with her at home.

They are also great at support with potty training, sleep issues, discipline etc.

The director and staff are just a wealth of information, have respect for children and families and so much collective experience. I have really trusted their input and guidance.

Parent #2
With respect to visitors, I really can't answer. I have been a part of the community for so long that I am known by all of the teachers so I am not screened when I visit. I don't want to give the impression that strangers walk around the school because I honestly just don't know what their practice is.

Parent #3
APS children spend a lot of time outdoors and have a lot of fun, creative, messy play. They have a GREAT yard to accomodate this! Their discipline approach is very good. They listen to the children, guide appropriately, but don't use overuse 'time out' kinds of approaches. Wonderful approach -- children learn so much!

Parent #4
The furnishings and outdoor equipment are clean but well-worn. At the end of the day, my son is usually covered in dirt and/or wearing school-provided clothes indicating to me that he had another great day digging and exploring during the mixed age afternoon program. I do not fear for his safety.

Health

OVERALL RATING (4.7)
Temperature and overall air circulation is comfortable
Healthy and nutritious snacks are provided More >
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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Montessori? Waldorf? Play-based?

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