Our Basic Approach | The Maria Montessori Philosophy | Areas of Study | Discipline

DISCIPLINE POLICIES

It is our policy that corporal punishment of any kind is NEVER used. A child's rights will not be violated for any reason. Hopper Creek's philosophy is one of teaching, guiding and nurturing a child through anger, frustration or disappointment. The role of the teachers is to guide the children along in order to give them the skills they need to work out their problems effectively and positively. Some examples of this are as follows:

Hitting: "Johnny, it hurts Suzie when you hit her. See her face? Can you get Suzie a Kleenex and help to make her feel better?"

Yelling: "Alisha, when you scream at Frankie, he doesn't know what you are trying to say. Tell Frankie you would like to have your toy back." 

Redirecting a child is often effective: "Frankie, we have new puzzles out over here, let's go find one together to work on."

We will always start with positive discipline at Hopper Creek. At times a "time-out" may be used as a time for a child to calm down, think or regroup.

It is against State Licensing Regulations to physically restrain a child. If a child loses his self control and is a threat to himself or another person, a teacher MAY NOT hold on to his body in restraint of any kind. If a teacher finds no other way to ensure the safety of your child and must restrain him in any manner, you will be notified. Licensing will also receive notification. If a child must be restrained more than two times anywhere, within the span of a month's time, the child will be dismissed from school.

It is our hope that parents and children of Hopper Creek agree and accept our philosophy and policies. If in the event the Director or a teacher feels the needs of a child cannot be met, we will adhere to the following procedure: 

1. Notify parents of the issue at hand. 

2. Have a conference to discuss a workable plan. 

3. Make any necessary referrals. 

4. If all parties are working together toward a common goal, the child will be place on a one month probation period. 

5. A final decision to continue at Hopper Creek will be made by the Director based on the progress seen in that month.