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Behaviour Policy

This policy has been produced and agreed by Monkey Puzzle School & Nursery team to ensure that all the children attending Monkey Puzzle are provided with a consistent approach to behaviour management.

Young children often display a range of behaviours and as adults it is our responsibility to model and direct them towards appropriate ways of showing their feelings.  Our approach to behaviour is to focus on children’s appropriate actions and praise these fully, reinforcing and encouraging positive behaviour.  Inappropriate behaviour is discussed and the child may be asked to leave a particular activity and spend some quiet time with an adult who will explain to the child why their behaviour was unacceptable.  Our approach is consistent throughout the foundation stage to help children feel secure in knowing the clear boundaries and expectations of them whilst at School & Nursery.  Should it be necessary, issues with children’s behaviour will be written down in a child behaviour incident book and discussed with the child’s parents.

  • Monkey Puzzle believes in promoting positive behaviour
  • Monkey Puzzle staff are expected to model the ‘appropriate behaviour’ we expect from the children.
  • Staff will always treat children with respect.  A child will never be smacked or shaken or treated roughly.  There are no circumstances in which such punishment can be justified.
  • At Monkey Puzzle we are concerned with safety, care and respect for each other.  Appropriate discipline will be used that matches the level of inappropriate behaviour.    It is the ‘inappropriate behaviour’ we are rejecting, not the child.
  • We aim to encourage self-discipline, consideration and respect for each other, our surroundings and property.  The methods used will promote this and always be developmentally appropriate.
  • Behaviour limits will be set to ensure that the child learns that it is not acceptable to hurt themselves, their peers, staff or material items in the Nursery and School environment.
  • By praising children and acknowledging their positive actions and attitudes, the children will always feel respected as individuals.
  • Time out within the room may be used if other methods of discipline have proved ineffective.  This would involve placing the child on a chair close to the incident for approximately 1-2 minutes with an absolute maximum of 5 minutes.  In extreme cases, the child may be removed from the room until he/she has calmed down and had time to reflect on their behaviour.

  • Staff members will deal with negative and inappropriate behaviour by immediately talking to the child about their actions.

  • Children at Monkey Puzzle will be given opportunities to release their feelings more creatively.

  • Parents will be informed if their child persistently behaves inappropriately.  We aim to work in partnership with parents to ensure consistency between Nursery, School and home.  Staff are always available to offer support and advise.

  • Our ultimate aim is to work in partnership with parents to lay foundations in which children can grow into happy, self-confident and well-adjusted individuals.  If ultimately the problem cannot be solved, the exclusion of the child will be sought.

  • Behaviour limits will be set to ensure that the child learns that it is not acceptable to hurt themselves, their peers, staff or material items in the Nursery and School environment.
  • By praising children and acknowledging their positive actions and attitudes, the children will always feel respected as individuals.
  • Time out within the room may be used if other methods of discipline have proved ineffective.  This would involve placing the child on a chair close to the incident for approximately 1-2 minutes with an absolute maximum of 5 minutes.  In extreme cases, the child may be removed from the room until he/she has calmed down and had time to reflect on their behaviour.
  • Staff members will deal with negative and inappropriate behaviour by immediately talking to the child about their actions.
  • Children at Monkey Puzzle will be given opportunities to release their feelings more creatively.
  • Parents will be informed if their child persistently behaves inappropriately.  We aim to work in partnership with parents to ensure consistency between Nursery, School and home.  Staff are always available to offer support and advise.
  • Our ultimate aim is to work in partnership with parents to lay foundations in which children can grow into happy, self-confident and well-adjusted individuals.  If ultimately the problem cannot be solved, the exclusion of the child will be sought.
  • Keep praising positive behaviour.
  • Tactile ignorance of behaviour eg ignoring negative behaviour as a first step depending on the behaviour.
  • Avoiding using the word ‘naughty’ and try ‘I don’t like it when you ...’
  • Give the child eye contact so they know you are aware of their action
  • Rule reminders and direction
  • Be consistent; direction and commands given to children must always be followed through
  • Children will trust adults and feel secure if those adults follow through
  • Try to distract or divert behaviour, eg ‘Would you come and help me please?’
  • Be close by to the child
  • Be clear with requests and instructions.  Children appreciate explanations and suggestions for alternative ways to act.  Explain why you would like them to do something
  • Endeavour not to say ‘no’ without offering a reason or alternative
  • Use a firm voice without shouting
  • If there is a victim, give them extra attention
  • Talk to the child about their unacceptable behaviour so they can see the consequences of their actions, eg if another child has been hurt and is crying
  • Ask the child to make-up by saying sorry or giving a cuddle to the person who is hurt.  Then praise them for doing this.
  • Keep a sense of humour!