Being an Observing Intervener

03/09/2016

Being an Observing Intervener

All of us inhabit settings, and much can be learned through observing and analyzing our own reactions to built spaces, and the reactions of others… In carrying out the business of daily life, how do spatial arrangements assist or get in the way?
Jim Greenman, Caring Spaces, Learning Places

In Bridging the Relationship Gap: Connecting with Children Facing Adversity, Sara Langworthy makes the point that when dealing with challenging behavior, early childhood providers need to be scientists. They need to "develop skills of observing behavior and recognizing triggers or potential issues before they become full blown problems." To understand a particular occurrence they need to be knowledgeable about...

Child's context: What is this child going through? Does the child seem overstressed? Tired? Anxious?
Daily context: What's different about today? Did something happen earlier that may have brought on this behavior?
Activity context: What is it about this particular activity that may be triggering the child?
Peer context: Are other children a factor? Have they somehow contributed to the escalation?
Your context: How are you feeling? Are you emotionally capable of handling this situation, or do you need to find another adult to intervene?

Softerware, Make Managing Your Childcare Center Easier.

Children Learning With Nature Training Institute - JULY 2016

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