The aim is for children over time to rely less on adults to
guide them as they develop their own self-control and
understand what acceptable behaviour is. With this aim in
mind, the following points may assist in developing
behaviour guidance strategies:
• establish positive relationships, which are the
foundation for building children’s self-respect, selfworth
and feelings of security
Strategies to guide children’s behaviour 3
• observe children to identify triggers for challenging
behaviours. Pay attention to the child’s developmental
level and any program issues that may be impacting on
the behaviour
• use positive approaches to behaviour guidance. Some
of these include positive acknowledgement, redirection,
giving explanations, encouragement, giving help,
collaborating to solve problems and helping children to
understand the consequences and impact of their
behaviour
• support children by providing acceptable alternative
behaviours when challenging behaviour occurs
• ensure limits are consistent, carried out in a calm, firm
manner, followed through and that children are helped
to behave within the limits
• involve the family and the child in appropriate ways in
addressing challenging behaviour
• use other professionals when necessary to help with
behaviour guidance, for example, the Preschool Field
Officer (PSFO) or the Inclusion Support Facilitator
(ISF)
• identify children’s strengths and build on them
• seek support from other staff members or family day
carers and management