We believe the best way to handle problems is to prevent them from happening in the first place. Therefore, the physical environments and the programs for our preschool are set up so that as few problems will take place as possible. The rooms and toys are arranged so children can handle things mostly by themselves. Children are not expected to perform beyond their abilities. Activities are age appropriate. In addition, because the ratio of adults to children is more than adequate, there is a great deal of interaction between them and consequently less inappropriate demand for attention and opportunities for problems to develop.

There are three situations in which more direct guidance may be needed:

• When a child is in danger of hurting himself/herself.
• When he/she is about to hurt others.
• When he/she is hurting equipment or the environment.

In these cases, children are redirected in positive terms so they understand not only what they cannot do but also what they can do instead. These limits are reinforced by a firm voice and if necessary, physical restraint. In extreme cases, if a child does not respond to these methods, he/she is removed from the situation and given some time by himself/herself with an adult nearby to help him/her if necessary. No adult will administer physical punishment to any child, including his/her own on the school premises or during any school function at any time.