Rules: When Less is More

 Children encounter rules from a very early age and upon entering preschool are introduced to a whole new world of relationships, activities, and some new rules. Rules, boundaries and limits are necessary in child care centers just as they are at home as we prepare children for the real world. Rules, brief explanation of why the rule exists, and consistent enforcement in the classroom provide children with a sense of order and help them know what to expect. When children extend their self-help abilities by following rules such as washing their hands before eating, picking up toys and putting them in their correct spot, it allows the child to experience the feeling of competence that knowing how to do the task provides.
Children are more accepting of a rule and cooperate more when the rule makes sense to them – “walking feet only inside the classroom” only makes sense if it is explained that running in the classroom may result in another child being hurt. Often honest confusion about what it is we expect of children is at the root of “misbehavior”. Staff needs to be aware of the need to state things in various ways so the child understands and can comply.
When setting up the preschool classroom, necessitating as few rules as possible so the children have the freedom to explore and investigate every aspect of their environment is second only to the need for safety and security.
As we regularly assess the safety factors in place it is also a good idea to do a review of the rules put in place in each classroom knowing all rules are not necessarily equal. A “is this rule really necessary” approach helps evaluate whether it is necessary help to the staff or whether it simply impedes the child’s path to independence. What we want is maximum freedom for all children each day we have the opportunity to spend time with them.
For further information or to schedule a tour please call 661-259-3888. Village Country Day Preschool is located at 24279 Valley Street in Newhall.