At Dubbo Early Learning Centre, we support every child to develop the skills to manage their emotions, respond to others, and resolve conflict in healthy, respectful ways. We take a consistent and calm approach to behaviour guidance, helping children learn how to make positive choices while feeling safe, supported, and understood. This includes supporting children through biting, exclusion, bullying, or conflict and teaching them how to express emotions, build friendships, and stand up for themselves respectfully.
Everyday Strategies That Build Skills
We create learning opportunities every day for children to develop self-regulation. Educators guide children through emotional moments using visual tools, stories, and conversations about feelings. Children are supported to reflect on their behaviour, take responsibility, and try new approaches. For example, we help children take turns, use assertive language, or walk away from frustrating situations. We also include mindfulness activities like yoga, breathing exercises, and meditation during group times to help children feel calm and in control of their bodies and minds.
Responding with Insight and Reflection
Our approach to behaviour support is guided by evidence and reflection. We draw on theories like behaviourism, which helps us think about how children respond to feedback, and critical theory, which reminds us of each child’s right to be heard and respected. Educators also reflect on group dynamics—sometimes, a room’s emotional energy may be off, and we use group-based strategies inspired by theorists like Bion to help reset the tone. If a child becomes unsafe, educators respond with compassion and care—gently intervening to protect all children while teaching safe behaviour.
Partnering With Families
We work closely with families to understand how they guide behaviour at home and reflect those approaches in the centre when appropriate. For example, we use simple, step-by-step instructions and allow children time to process before expecting a response. We also ask questions like, “What could we do next?” rather than giving directions, encouraging children to think for themselves. When families are facing challenges like illness, domestic violence, or other stress, we partner with them and offer access to trusted support services to ensure the child receives the emotional support they need.
Respecting Individual Needs
We recognise that behaviour is deeply personal, and often influenced by a child’s developmental stage, neurodivergence, or life experience. Educators tailor strategies for each child, considering what they need to feel safe, loved, and successful. For children with additional needs, we work closely with families and community professionals to develop individual behaviour support plans. These may include sensory strategies, social stories, or visual prompts to support a child’s ability to understand expectations and respond with confidence.