Mar Vista, CA
New School West

Discipline

OVERALL RATING (5.0)

Parents at this school, on average, believe that conflicts between children:
...are handled extraordinarily well in a way that not only gives me confidence in the safety of my child but also reassures me that my child (and his/her peers) are learning the early skills needed to socialize effectively with one another

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Director's Description to School's Approach to Discipline

It's important to understand the developmental stages of children and the theories that explain why and how they behave in a variety of settings. If we acknowledge that behaviors have meaning and validate the child's feelings without judgment, we can support the process of working through problems in positive ways that has the child as an active part of the solution. The teacher, then is the facilitator who observes, listens, and models empathy and respect. The consistency of this form of discipline provides the foundation of trust that strengthens a child's self-esteem and promotes positive regard for others.

Director's Response to a Sample Discipline Scenario

Description of how teachers handle the following scenario: Child A and Child B are good friends and usually play together. One day, Child A decides to play with Child C and tells Child B, 'I don't want to play with you today. I'm playing with Child C instead.'


I would first ask Child B how she felt about hearing those words and repeat her words to Child A. It is important to validate both children and support them in trying to figure out this problem. Teacher 'It looks like Child B wants to play with you. You're playing with Child C. I wonder if there's a way you could all work together. Do you have any ideas? I want to make sure no one feels left out.' By taking the time to support the problem solving process and validate what everyone has to say and reflecting meaningful dialogue between/among them--the children can be a part of the solution making process. The teacher is the facilitator.

Parents' Notes on Discipline, Health and Safety

Parent #1
Health policy is realistic and consistent and to some degree relies on the discretion of the parent. If a child is recognized to be sick with a fever or contagious symptoms and should not be at school - pick up is required and enforced. By actively involving a child who has used their body on another child or directly or indirectly caused injury in making that child feel better builds community, a sense of responsibility and replaces guilt with an active way to process a mistake or inappropriate action.

Health

OVERALL RATING (4.7)
Temperature and overall air circulation is comfortable
Healthy and nutritious snacks are provided More >
Toys and furniture are cleaned regularly

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Safety

OVERALL RATING (4.4)
Screen and identify all visitors
Parents may not bring sick children to school where they may infect others

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Montessori? Waldorf? Play-based?

What school type is right for your child? Is one model better than another? What does the research say?

View an example from the Savvy Source guide to learn more.

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