The Power of Positive Guidance in the Classroom
One of the greatest joys of working with young children is watching them grow, not just in the skills we can measure, like counting or learning their letters, but in the ways they learn to navigate friendships, solve problems, and express their feelings. These moments often happen in the middle of daily routines, and they’re where positive guidance plays such an important role.
Our three center-wide expectations—Be Kind, Be Safe, and Communicate—build a strong foundation for everything we do in the classroom. Positive guidance supports these values by showing children that limits can be set in ways that are both respectful and caring. It’s not about ignoring challenges or letting children do whatever they want; it’s about creating clear, consistent boundaries that help them feel safe, understood, and valued. When children experience this kind of environment, they are more willing to take risks, try new things, and practice managing their big emotions. We know that as they test boundaries, explore independence, and learn how to belong in a group, each moment of challenge is also an opportunity for growth.
BGCC Director
Children learn to work together, share space and materials when given the skills to communicate with one another.
What I love most about positive guidance is how it nurtures connection. A child who may be having a tough day still knows that our relationship with them is steady and caring, even as we hold them accountable. Over time, children come to understand that mistakes aren’t failures—they are simply steps along the way in the process of growing up.
When conflict arises between children, teachers use HighScope’s approach to conflict resolution to guide children through social conflicts in a calm, respectful way. Instead of simply telling children what to do, teachers support them in working out solutions together. The process begins with approaching the situation and acknowledging each child’s feelings, then gathering information about what happened. Teachers help children restate the problem, brainstorm possible solutions, and choose one together. For example, when two children both want the same toy, each child is given an opportunity to share their feelings and suggest possible solutions. Once the teacher restates the problem, “You both want to play. Let’s find a way that works for both of you” the children suggest solutions until they agree on one. This approach not only helps resolve the immediate conflict, but also teaches children important lifelong skills such as listening, empathy, cooperation, and critical thinking. By using these steps, children learn that their voices matter and that they can be problem solvers in their own community.
As parents, you may already be practicing positive guidance at home without even naming it — whether it’s by staying calm when your child melts down after a long day, or by giving them choices so they feel a sense of control. Together, at home and at school, we can create an environment where children know they are loved, capable, and safe to keep learning who they are.