Wednesday, April 16, 2008

Hmmmm...interesting

I had my spring conference today with Travis' preschool teacher. We were talking about ways to discipline, and she told me that at the California Preschool Conference she took a class that suggested that instead of a 'time-out' mat, or spot, to have a 'cozy-spot'. A place that is comforting to the child. Because usually when they are in need of a time-out they need comfort. So make it comfy, with a blankets, pillow, stuffed animals, and even books, and they have an area that they feel safe, and can learn to soothe themselves. So not to even address the bad behavior, but to acknowledge that they need time to reflect, or rest. I thought this was a great idea! I've always found that when meltdowns, or other misbehavior occurs, it stems from a need for attention, and so to teach the kids how to sort themselves out, and redirect them at the same time is a really neat concept...because it's essentially what a timeout is, but in a positive style...I am going to try it with Travis...he is on the old side, but occasionally needs a 'moment'. Then I will have a plan when the girls are ready....




9 comments:

Claremont First Ward said...

Oh, sounds like something someone should have thought of a LONG time ago. Let me know how it works out!

From the Board said...

On one hand that sounds great. We all would like a cozy-spot to go to when we are over-stressed. But what about the times they are REALLY NAUGHTY? When I tell my twins no they melt down. Like NO BITING, they cry, scream & throw themselves on the ground.

maybe I am a mean mom! LOL

From the Board said...

I DID IT AGAIN... I am signed in using my Twin club acct! LOL The above comment is from me... Debra.. the MEAN mom of 5 ;-)

Connie said...

Maybe...a cozy spot is just what they need to calm themselves...I think that's the idea anyway...time out is the same...this is just a more positive way to approach it...

Lottie_Ellie said...

I know that Montessori schools use that. At my niece's school they call it Antarctica because you go there to cool down. I think it is true that most kids misbehave when they are tired and stressed and what they really need is understanding.

Shannon said...

Oh you mommies are so nice. I am usually mad at them so punishment seems appropriate. Jeesh...you would think I was beaten as a child.

I like this idea and I would love to know how it works out. I just need to readjust my thinking and not be so stinkin' mad at them first:)

I am Arizona; a person, not a place. said...

I love this idea. Luke usually acts up only when he's really tired and I find that if I take a moment to lie down with him and have a moment of quiet it works so much better than yelling or punishing ever does. I hope the cozy spot works at teh preschool!

Crazymamaof6 said...

awesome. my kids had a teacher that did this in kindergarten. my kids responded well to it. they also went there when they were hurt or not feeling well. to calm down.

Jaime said...

Interesting. Let me know how this works for you.