Berkeley, CA
Berkeley-Albany Headstart

Discipline

OVERALL RATING (4.1)

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

The BAYMCA discipline policy is based on what is appropriate for children based on their age and developmental level.

The staff respond to a two year old who bites differently than they respond to a 4 year old who hits. The staff encourages children to use words to express their feelings such as, 'I'm mad,' or 'You're hurting my feelings,' rather than hitting, biting, or other less acceptable forms of expression.

To support children's rights to be treated with dignity and respect, specific steps are taken for handling aggressive and hurtful behavior of young children. This includes hitting, kicking, biting, pinching, punching, shoving, or any violent act that results in bodily harm to another child or staff person.

No corporal punishment (hitting, grabbing, or other aggressive action) is used in disciplining children in the program. Staff works in partnership with families to address behavioral concerns.

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.'


Depending how Child B responds, staff may do nothing and let the children work out this fairly typical interaction. If Child B is upset by the interaction, the teacher would probably intervene by inviting Child B to play with other children. There may be a discussion at small group or circle time about friends.

Health

OVERALL RATING (4.8)
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 (4.8)
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?

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)

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