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There are three different guidance styles that child care professionals usually use. Some believe that their style or method is best, while others have learned from others. Consider each style carefully as you read.
Authoritarian
- Children must do what adults want
- Children cannot express how they feel or think
- Rigid enforcement of rules
- Punishment is imposed by adults
- Use of sarcasm, ridicule and embarrassment to manipulate and control behavior
- Threats and bribes used extensively
- Learning takes place in an atmosphere of fear
- Children may learn love is highly conditional
- Children may learn what to think and may be easily manipulated
Permissive
- Children do whatever they want to
- Children follow their own moods and desires
- No recognizable structure, rules, or guidelines
- Punishment and rewards are arbitrary and inconsistent
- Mini-lectures and put-downs are typical tools
- Second chances given often
- Threats and bribes are common places
- Learning takes place in an environment of chaos
- Emotions rule behavior of adults and children
- Children may learn that love is highly conditional
- Children may be easily led by peer influence
Respectful
- Children conform to rules, but are allowed to make choices
- Children’s and adults’ opinions are respected
- Adult understands age-appropriate expectations
- The environment is flexible and conducive to creative, constructive and responsible activity
- Rules are simple and clearly stated
- Consequences are logical, realistic and palatable
- Motivates children to be all they can be
- Lots of smiles, hugs and humor
- Second opportunities are provided
- Learning takes place in atmosphere of acceptance and high expectation
- Children learn to accept their own feelings and control their own behavior
Child care professionals should strive to have the qualities of the respectful guidance style. It is most effective, positive and helpful.
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