The Basics of Positive Discipline
What is Positive Discipline?
A way to teach kids with kindness and firmness instead of punishment.
What’s better to use — praise or encouragement?
Encouragement!
What does “connection before correction” mean?
Connect with the child before talking about the behavior.
How can we help kids feel capable?
Give them jobs or choices they can handle.
A child refuses to clean up. What could you say?
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“Would you like to pick up the blocks or the books?”
What is the main goal of Positive Discipline?
To help children learn good choices and feel capable and loved.
Why is encouragement better?
It helps kids feel proud of their effort, not just the result.
How can you connect with a child who’s upset?
Get on their level, speak gently, and listen.
Why is it good to let kids help make classroom rules?
They’re more likely to follow rules they helped create.
The class keeps talking during circle time. What could you do?
Pause, take a breath, and remind them calmly of the expectations.
What’s one difference between punishment and discipline?
Punishment hurts; discipline teaches.
What’s an example of encouragement?
“You worked hard on that!” instead of “You’re the best!”
Why is connection important before correcting?
Kids listen better when they feel cared for.
What should we do when a child makes a mistake?
Help them learn what to do next time.
Two kids are arguing. What’s a Positive Discipline way to help?
Ask, “How can we solve this together?”
How does Positive Discipline help children over time?
It helps them build confidence, self-control, and problem-solving skills.
What does encouragement teach kids?
That trying their best and improving matters more than being perfect.
What’s one way to show empathy?
“I can see you’re mad. Let’s take a break together.”
What’s a “Curiosity Question”?
Asking things like, “What do you think will happen if we do that?”
A child says, “You’re not the boss of me!” What’s a calm response?
“You’re right, but it’s my job to help everyone stay safe.”
What are two key parts of Positive Discipline?
Be kind and firm at the same time.
How can you help a child who says, “I can’t do it”?
Say, “You can try again — I believe in you!”
What happens when kids feel connected to teachers?
They’re more likely to cooperate and make good choices.
Why should kids help solve problems?
It teaches responsibility and teamwork.
A co-worker feels frustrated with behavior. How can you support them?
Remind them to stay calm, be kind and firm, and look for ways to connect first.