Creating Connections - Assertiveness

Highlight: Monkeys (Twos) - Moline

While a staff was helping children wash hands, a child tried to climb up on the stool while another child was washing his hands.  The teacher said “(Child’s name), wait your turn until he is done.  I don’t want you to fall off and get hurt.”  The child waited her turn.  The teacher responded, “You waited and stayed safe!  Thank you!”

Connection: Assertiveness

The skill of Assertiveness builds healthy boundaries in life and teaches the values of respect for self and others.  In this situation, the child was attempting an unsafe act and the teacher responded with an assertive command that clearly stated what the teacher wanted the child to do and why.  Being assertive by telling the child what to do (rather than what not to do) creates clear expectations and boundaries, especially around safety.  Providing children with an explanation of the ‘why’ or your reasoning allows children to build connections so they literally learn what to do next time (even if it takes some practice!).