One of the most common subjects for staff working in out-of-school clubs to ask for advice about is behaviour management. Unwanted behaviour needs to be dealt with promptly, otherwise it can contribute towards an 'unsafe' play setting. It can also mean that children don't get the best value out of their club, which, in turn, can lead to increased negative attitudes. Lastly, unwanted behaviour will waste your valuable time, as well as affect morale.
Reasons for bad behaviour
Playworkers may experience older children swearing, fighting, being withdrawn, bullying or name-calling. This may come as a shock to anyone more used to working with the under-fives, and staff may feel out of their depth.
The reasons for bad behaviour will vary enormously, but it is probably fair to say that it is nearly always an expression of unhappiness, boredom or tiredness in one form or another, and you need to take time to discover the reasons behind the behaviour.
Age will also play a factor: a five-year-old may just be too tired to take part in activities after a long day at school; a 12-year-old may feel bored and resentful because he believes he is too old to attend an out-of-school club.
Other factors that may have a bearing on behaviour include: Play settings that do not reflect the play needs of older children; lack of suitable equipment, toys, games and books; staff who don't have experience or training in working with older children; lack of opportunities to try new things and push boundaries.
School experiences such as poor teacher relationships, bullying or prejudice.
Home experiences including divorce, new family members, bereavement, abuse and unrealistic parental expectations.
Other experiences such as girlfriend/ boyfriend trouble; pressure by peers or strangers to take drugs or drink alcohol; illness or special needs not being met.
Some of these factors you may be able to take action on or at least alleviate by listening and trying to understand.
Building relationships
From day one, children need the opportunity to build good relationships with peers and staff at an out-of-school club. This will help children feel valued, which, in turn, helps to raise their confidence and self-esteem and may help prevent unco-operative behaviour.
To create a warm atmosphere at the club, consider the following: * How are the children welcomed?
* Have they had the opportunity to get to know all the other children?
* Do the children know all the staff and their names?
* Do all the staff have a fair and positive approach to all of the children?
* Do you ask children what they want to do and encourage their ideas and questions?
* Do you actively respond to their thoughts and suggestions?
* Do you inform children about what is going on and involve them in decision-making?
* Do you celebrate achievements?
Effective strategies
No matter how much preventative work you do, there will always be some conflict between children and challenging behaviour towards staff. Clearly-defined policies and procedures on how to deal with unwanted behaviour are essential. Staff appreciate knowing some form of back up exists and parents benefit from knowing you will deal with behavioural issues. Remember also:
* If you involve children in developing ground rules, they are more likely to understand and keep to them, and they will appreciate being involved. Revisit the rules every so often so as to remind children and staff.
* Distract children with different and more interesting activities if they are playing up.
* Try discussing and negotiating with older children, allowing them to air their views and find solutions to conflict.
* Intervene quickly when bullying or discriminatory behaviour takes place, and explain why it is unacceptable.
* Talk over issues with parents and carers when challenging behaviour is persistent and try to work out a longer-term solution.
Reward good behaviour
All children need to have their good behaviour and achievements recognised. Use certificates and small awards, allow children to take on responsibilities - and remember that a smile, a laugh and praise for work well done will reap huge rewards.
Gail Bushell is regional development officer for SPRITO East region. A former playwork NVQ assessor and childcare trainer, she also helped run an out-of-school club for seven years.
