PSED 11 Module Topic: Understanding the Young Childs Behavior April 04, 2014

Name of Student: Christine Elizabeth M. Capiral

a. Why it is important for the teacher or any adult to understand childrens behavior? Behavior is a very significant indication to how a child is feeling, or a reaction to some issues in their life. They may not be mature enough to understand the reasons for their behavior, but if an adult understand, they should be able to focus towards helping the child to overcome any issue , develop in the right way and to coach the child and help them in the areas where needed. As a teacher, we should understand childrens behavior to give them the proper guidance that they needed in order for them to become a good citizen in our society. b. Discuss the factors and influence that may affect childs behavior. The factors that influenced the childs behavior are categorized into two: Biological and Environmental. Let us discussed first the biological factors. Researched has found out that high level of stress during pregnancy affects the childs language and intellect that are related to behavioral problems. Usage of substance abused drugs during pregnancy might also have a risk of affecting the childs nervous system. Also the overall nutrition of the child has an impact on his behavior, malnourished children has an increase chance of having a less tolerance on stress and inability to focus. Physiological problems like damage to the childs brain affect his memory, attention problems and language causing it to be a behavioral problem. Temperament also influences the childs behavior and the way he interact with others. There are three temperament types: Easy or flexible children tend to be happy, regular in sleeping and eating habits, adaptable, calm, and not easily upset. Active or feisty children may be fussy, irregular in feeding and sleeping habits, fearful of new people and situations, easily upset by noise and stimulation, and intense in their reactions. Slow to warm or cautious children may be less active or tend to be fussy, and may withdraw or react negatively to new situations; but over time they may become more positive with repeated exposure to a new person, object, or situation. Then there are environmental factors: Parenting styles are very important in developing appropriate behavior for children. A warm and responsive style is the most effective style. Attachment of the child to his parents is also a factor; secure attachment provides a strong foundation for the socio-emotional development of the

child. The familys economic status plays also an important role to his behavior; lowincome families may experience higher levels of stress. Stress has been found to negatively impact childrens development and behavior. The presence of violence into the childs life can also affect his behavior; it can affect his ability to learn and cope with others. c. Why do children sometimes misbehave? What do they want to communicate with us? Give examples of a childs misbehavior with their interpretations. Bad behavior in children always comes with an explanation. The truth is, throwing tantrums, hitting and breaking rules are completely normal and age appropriate. Curiosity. Kids this age are naturally curious about the world around them, which can often translate into bad behavior ("Hmmmwhat will happen if I dump all the books off the shelf?" Or "I wonder how my sister's goldfish would like a dip in the toilet bowl?"). An adult might interpret these actions as naughty, but your child (in her mind, at least) is conducting a science experiment not looking for a way to annoy you (or her older sister). Miscommunication. Acting out often happens because communication is so very tough for children. It's much easier for children to communicate with bad behavior, like when your two-year-old kicks over a flowerpot than to say, "I'm cranky because my nap was too short" or hurls a toy at her pal instead of saying, "I don't want my playdate to end." Immaturity. Until they reach kindergarten, kids pretty much stink at controlling their impulses and grasping the concepts of right and wrong. Because they are constantly running up against a wall of limitations (whether it's being unable to button a shirt or say what they mean) frustration often rears its ugly head in tantrum form. And children have little (okay, no) experience checking their emotions, so when they're released, they're anything but controlled (hello, bad behavior). Desire for independence. Right now, your "bad child is just determined to test her wings and try things on her own (cutting her food, tying her shoes, washing her hands). And that can lead to resistance ("No, Mom! Let me do it!"), aggressive behavior, and ultimately frustration. A tantrum is often her way of saying, "I want to do this myself!" or "I'm angry!" when her desires exceed her abilities.

d. What are some guidance strategies that would encourage children to behave appropriately Use guidance to teach children life skills. By guiding childrens behavior, rather than dictating it, you will help them problem solve, think for themselves and develop selfesteem. Children who are guided are more open to suggestions and better able to work with others. Understand the reasons for a childs behavior. Understanding why a child acted a certain way will help you to guide him/her to make better choices next time.

Build and maintain an encouraging environment (in the classroom, at home, etc.) in which all children feel welcome as fully participating members .Punishment enforces a negative self-concept in children; when they misbehave and are reprimanded, they feel inadequate and doomed to failure. If the child feels good about his/her decisions and actions, he/she will contribute more enthusiastically and positively to the group. When guiding behavior, give undivided attention to the childs learning needs, express feelings appropriately and without negativity, and explain the consequences of the behavior. Be sure to provide unconditional caring and attention, have a positive attitude, Use positive, direct language when talking with children. Be aware of the language you use when speaking with a child. Be precise and clear. Allow time tolisten and understand. Be constructive and encouraging. Point out the positive aspects of a childs behavior instead of criticizing the bad. Give the child a choice when applicable: You can do or Tell the child what he/she should do, not what he/she shouldnt do: Use your fork, instead of Dont eat with your hands. Encourage positive behaviors instead of punishing negative ones. Reinforcing positive behaviors and ignoring negative ones indicates to the child which behaviors are acceptable and which are not. Eventually, he/she will phase out the negative behavior and use the acceptable behaviors everyday, because those behaviors will earn him/her attention and praise. If you establish ground rules, set clear expectations, and be consistent and follow through with your plan, the child will have a greater chance for success.