Support Self-Control (E4.1.4)
Sub Category: Social and Emotional Development: Self-Concept, Behavior Regulation, Emotional Control, Attention, and Social Skills
Credential Level: Level 2 •
Age Group: Infant, Toddler, Pre-K
COMPETENCY STATEMENT
Provides children cues to remind them that there are times to control their bodies and actions (“hands in your lap,” “quiet feet”) and is sensitive to the limitations in the emerging ability to control their bodies and movement
DEFINITIONS
Teachers gently remind children when it’s time to calm their bodies, using simple cues like “quiet feet” or “hands in your lap.” These reminders help children learn self-control while respecting that they are still developing this skill. Teachers stay patient and supportive as children practice.
EXAMPLES
Support Self-Control
Age Group: Pre-K
Age Group: Pre-K
In this exemplar video, a teacher uses a simple behavioral cue during a transition. Notice how the teacher reminds a child to “sit on their bottom,” an example of providing children cues to help them control their bodies and actions.
Support Self-Control
Age Group: Pre-K
Age Group: Pre-K
In this exemplar video, a teacher gives a child a verbal reminder to help him calm his body. Notice how, when the child becomes excited and reaches for the markers, the teacher gently says, “Calm bodies first,” and helps him move his hand back to his side. This reminder helps the child understand that he needs to listen to the directions before starting the activity.
Support Self-Control
Age Group: Toddler
Age Group: Toddler
In this exemplar video, a teacher provides a toddler with a cue to control her body and actions during a self-concept activity. Notice how, when the child begins to stand and lean across the table to reach for a sticker, the teacher says, “Sit down so you can grab an ice cream cone.” This cue helps the child sit back down in her chair and safely wait her turn—an example of providing children cues to remind them that there are times to control their bodies and actions while remaining sensitive to their emerging ability to do so.