Conscious Discipline is an approach to social and emotional learning (SEL) that focuses on building healthy relationships and creating a safe and supportive learning environment for children. It was developed by Dr. Becky Bailey, an early childhood education expert, and is based on research in brain development, child development, and neuroscience.
Conscious Discipline emphasizes the importance of teaching children social-emotional skills such as self-regulation, impulse control, empathy, problem-solving, and conflict resolution. The approach uses a variety of strategies to help children develop these skills, including:
Composure: Adults model self-regulation and emotional control for children, showing them how to manage strong emotions in healthy ways.
Connection: Adults build positive relationships with children, creating a sense of safety and belonging.
Assertiveness: Adults set clear expectations and boundaries, while also respecting children’s feelings and needs.
Empathy: Adults acknowledge and validate children’s emotions, helping them to develop empathy for others.
Choices: Adults give children opportunities to make choices and solve problems, helping them to develop problem-solving skills.
Positive Intent: Adults assume that children are doing the best they can, and seek to understand and support them rather than punish or criticize them.
Conscious Discipline is used in a variety of settings, including schools, daycare centers, and homes. The approach is designed to promote positive behavior, reduce conflict, and create a supportive learning environment for children of all ages.
What are the benefits of conscious discipline?
There are several benefits of using Conscious Discipline in schools and other settings. Here are some of the main benefits:
Improved behavior: Conscious Discipline helps children develop self-regulation skills, which can lead to improved behavior and reduced disciplinary issues.
Enhanced relationships: Conscious Discipline emphasizes the importance of positive relationships between adults and children, which can lead to improved trust, communication, and cooperation.
Reduced stress and anxiety: Conscious Discipline teaches children how to manage their emotions and reduce stress and anxiety, which can lead to improved mental health and well-being.
Improved academic performance: Conscious Discipline can help children stay focused and engaged in learning, leading to improved academic performance.
Increased empathy and social awareness: Conscious Discipline teaches children to be more empathetic and socially aware, which can lead to improved relationships with others and a more inclusive and supportive learning environment.
Better problem-solving skills: Conscious Discipline helps children develop problem-solving skills, which can prepare them for future success in college and career.
Improved self-esteem: Conscious Discipline helps children develop a sense of self-awareness and self-worth, which can lead to improved self-esteem and confidence.
Overall, Conscious Discipline can have a positive impact on children’s behavior, relationships, mental health, academic performance, and overall well-being. It is an approach that promotes healthy social and emotional development for children of all ages.
