Because I work with one and two-year-olds, I am sure my teaching philosophy will be very different from the majority of our class. Classroom management and teaching philosophies will be very different then most of yours. No matter how well I manage our classroom routines tohelp avoid problem situations, there are bound to be times when the classroom feels out of control. Even typical toddlers can "act out", they can lose control or become overtierd or overstimulated. What typical toddlers need in the classroom is for the teacher to be in charge and show them the way. I need to set limits and be in charge of the room. What I have learned over the last few years I have had at the Early Head Start, strict schedules and guidelines will not cramp a child's style rather it will give them the boundaries and structure that they need to feel comfortable and safe. For one and two-year-olds, safety is key.
It is possible to prevent undesirable behavior in the classroom. One way is to assure their individual safety. The first step in an individual's independence is to build trusting relationships. Once a bond and trust can be established, the child will begin to establish his or her own autonomy. What many parents will refer to as the terrible two's! Once we have reached this point, I feel much of the classroom management requires the teacher know their own boundaries and set firm calssroom rules. With structure and consistency the child will thrive and grow. I look toward my teaching team for assistance when I feel out of control.
Several theories I have learned are:
no one can make me angry without my permission, remember they are children and I am in charge. Encourage the children and my fellow teachers, we are all in this together. What we focus on we get more of. The only person I can make change is myself.
I like to see the best in others. There is great power in acceptance and love. Mistakes are opportunities to learn. I am always grateful for the opportunities to share life with the wonderful little ones that I am trusted with. As I continue to learn and teach I know the future will bring a larger classroom and more responsiblities, I still have much to learn about classroom management. It will be valuable to keep this teaching philosophy in mind knowing above all else I believe in encouragement and wonderment through hands-on-learning.