Discipline Policy

In order to create an atmosphere of harmony, sharing, and respect in a Christian environment CCA staff has researched different approaches to discipline and our policy reflects the philosophies of Dr. James Dobson, Ph.D. (founder and president of Focus on the Family) and Dr. Thomas Phelan, clinical psychologist (1-2-3 Magic: Effective Discipline for Children 2 – 12).

Dr. Dobson speaks of “conveying a balanced environment, wherein discipline is evident when necessary, but where it is matched by patience and respect and affection.  Shape the will of the child, but do so without breaking the spirit.

CCA staff will:

1. Define the boundaries before they are enforced.
2. When defiantly challenged, we will respond with confident authority.
3. Distinguish between willful defiance and childish irresponsibility.  Childish irresponsibility is very different from willful defiance, and should be handled more patiently.
4. Reassure and teach after the confrontation is over.
5. Be absolutely sure that the child is capable of delivering what is required.  Impossible demands put the child in an unresolvable conflict:  there is no way out.
6. Let love be our guide.  A relationship that is characterized by genuine love and affection is likely to be a healthy one.

“If it is desirable that children be kind, appreciative, and pleasant, those qualities should be taught—not hoped for.  If we want to see honesty, truthfulness, and unselfishness  in children, then these characteristics should be the conscious objectives of our early instructional process.  If it is important to produce respectful, responsible young citizens, then we should set out to mold them accordingly”.  J. Dobson

Dr. Phelan’s 1-2-3 Magic incorporates specific, gentle techniques to stop undesirable behavior as well as to encourage positive behavior.  Our goal is to provide an environment in which your child can learn and have a good time while they are with us each day.  We believe that by having a discipline program that is both warm and demanding, our teachers and your children will be able to put the majority of our energies into academics and enrichment.

There are three steps to 1-2-3 Magic:

1. Manages undesirable behavior by counting to 1, 2, or 3.  On the count of 3, the child must take an age appropriate time-out.  This simple technique is remarkably helpful, but only if the adults using it follow what are known as the No-Talking, No-Emotion rules.
2. Encourages good behavior.  There are several simple methods for encouraging constructive action in children, such as “across the room” and “next door” praise, other forms of positive reinforcement, charting, and timers.
3. Uses some valuable tools for maintaining healthy relationships with children, including active listening, shared fun, and class meetings.

All of these steps work together and contribute to a positive classroom climate where your child will feel welcome and comfortable, and where he or she will work and learn productively.