2025-2026 Parent Handbook FINAL - Flipbook - Page 62
Preschool Discipline
At Carden Conejo School, discipline in Preschool and Pre-Kindergarten is rooted in guidance, modeling, and
instruction. Young children are in the early stages of developing self-regulation, emotional awareness, and
social understanding. Our approach emphasizes teaching appropriate behavior, helping children recognize
feelings, and guiding them toward safe and respectful interactions.
Preschool students are expected to use safe bodies, kind words, listening ears, and respectful behavior. They
are learning how to take turns, share materials, manage frustration, and participate in structured group
settings. Faculty members provide consistent routines and clear expectations to help children feel secure
and confident. When behavioral concerns arise, teachers respond immediately and calmly. Strategies may
include redirection, modeling appropriate alternatives, reinforcing expectations, guiding children through
conflict resolution, and providing structured opportunities to reset in a supervised calm-down space. The
focus at this level is correction through instruction rather than punishment.
If behaviors become repeated or more serious, such as ongoing hitting, biting, kicking, intentional physical
harm, extreme defiance, or persistent unsafe actions, administration will become involved. Parents may be
contacted for a conference to discuss patterns and collaborate on solutions. The School may implement a
behavioral support plan, increased supervision, a shortened school day, or other interventions designed to
ensure the safety and well-being of all students.
While we are committed to supporting student growth, the School must also maintain a safe environment for
every child. If a student’s behavior poses ongoing safety concerns or indicates that the program is not an
appropriate fit for their needs, the School reserves the right to require additional support, place the student
on probationary status, or determine that dismissal is necessary.
Each situation is evaluated individually. The School retains sole discretion in determining appropriate
interventions and consequences in the best interest of the student and the broader Preschool community.
Preschool discipline focuses on teaching, modeling, and guiding appropriate behavior. Young children are
learning self-regulation, emotional expression, and social boundaries.
Expected Behaviors
Preschool students are expected to:
Use gentle hands and safe bodies
Follow teacher directions
Use kind words
Respect materials
Seek adult help when needed
When Concerns Arise
Teachers will:
Redirect behavior
Model appropriate alternatives
Reinforce expectations
Facilitate conflict resolution
Provide calm-down space when needed
Consequences May Include
Parent conference
Behavioral support plan
Temporary removal from classroom
Shortened school day
Suspension (rare but possible)
Dismissal if safety cannot be maintained
