Conscious Discipline
What is Conscious Discipline?
Conscious Discipline is an emotional intelligence program pioneered by Dr. Becky Bailey that teaches children to react or respond, rather than react during life events. Everyday life events are used as teachable moments and guide children to develop self-control, utilize tools for conflict resolution, boost self-esteem, and foster positive relationships and social skills. It is also based on current brain research, child development information and best educational practices.
How Does it Work?
Conscious Discipline promotes a positive relationship-based community in the classroom. As we develop our "school family", students will learn about safety (physical and emotional safety), trust and problem solving. In our classroom students will learn through:
- The 7 Basic Skills of Discipline (listed below)
- Cultivating higher order thinking skills through "Brain Smart" activities
- Class Meetings
- Creating a School Family
The 7 Basic Skills of Conscious Discipline
The program focuses on the following basic skills of discipline which apply to myself, as well as my students:
-
Composure- willingness to change your internal state from upset to calm and bring you mind to where your body is.
-
Encouragement- develop a school family and understand that "we are all in this together."
-
Assertiveness- learn how to say "no" and having thoughts heard and respected.
-
Choices - understand that the only person you can "make change is yourself and, in turn, build self-esteem and willpower.
-
Positive Intent- begin to look for the best in others turning conflict into cooperation.
-
Empathy- gain an understanding of the moment and validating the emotions of self and others
-
Consequences- learn that everyone makes mistakes and that they are viewed as opportunities to learn.
Classroom Structures that Support Conscious Discipline
When you visit our classroom, you will notice several classroom structures that foster the development of the 7 basic skills of Conscious Discipline. These are introduced to the students through class meetings and/or as the need arises through our daily interactions in class.
The Safe Space
A place where students can remove themselves from the group in order to become calm, regain composure and maintain control when upset, angry or frustrated. Students are taught the following relaxation techniques using these picture clues:
Be a S.T.A.R- Smile, Take a deep breath And Relax
Draining- Extend both arms in front of your body parallel to the floor. Clench fists tightly and continue to tighten shoulder and body muscles. Then open the drain (make shhhhh sound) and relax body as if releasing water out of a faucet.
Ballooning- Place hands over your head and inhale as if blowing up a balloon and at the same time raising the hands. Then slowly exhale and bring arms down.
Pretzel - Stand with feet crossed, extend arms out in front and cross the left wrist over the right wrist. Interlace the fingers and bring hands up toward the chest. Close eyes and press the tongue to the roof of the mouth. Hold this position for a few seconds and slowly release.
Meaningful Jobs
Every student is given a job for the week. This provides opportunities for all to be contributors to the School Family.
Instant Replay Center
This is a place where students willingly "go back in time" and redo harmful interactions with others. This is done with guidance from the teacher.
Celebration Station
This is a place where students celebrate important events, achievements, accomplishments, etc. This may include rituals such as reciting poems, singing songs, special applause, etc.
We Care Center
This is a place where students can express empathy or encouragement for others. Materials are provided for learning songs, creating cards, letters, etc.
Friends and Family Board
This is a place where pictures of friends and family are displayed to promote our School Family. This quickly becomes a favorite part of the classroom for students, as it is a way for them to connect their "home family" to their "school family".
Class Meetings
This daily routine provides a means for students to problem solve, develop connections, celebrate, reinforce guiding principles and begin the day with Brain Smart activities.
