Indirect guidance techniques
The following are examples of indirect guidance techniques:
- Create a calm, clean and attractive space for children and avoid overstimulating children with busy and chaotic environments. Both adults and children will feel better. This doesn’t mean we should avoid messy play – we just need to work at tidying up after and children can learn to help.
- Be aware when a child is hungry or tired and reduce your expectations.
- Avoid long waits and transitions. It’s very hard for young children to sit still or wait for long.
- When you do have transitions, for example from play to lunch time, it’s helpful to have some songs, and games to keep children focused and minimize the wait time.
- Have a consistent schedule. Children usually feel safer and more in control when they know what is happening next.
- Have developmentally appropriate expectations. Keep in mind that although you may be able to reason a bit with a 5 year old, two year olds are not very reasonable!
- Make sure activities and schedules are appropriate for the age group.
- Arrange your space so that children can reach what they need – toys, coat hooks, toothbrush and so forth.
- Ensure that play materials are developmentally appropriate and in good repair.
- Avoid long empty spaces that invite children to run. Look at the room from a child’s eye-level.
- Use a soft and relaxed voice (except for emergencies).
- Be aware of your body language. Adults sometimes have a habit of standing around with arms folded, looking very unapproachable to children. Get down to the child’s level to speak to them rather than hovering overhead.
