Guidance tools are used when a problem occurs that was not prevented. They are responses we make to children during the problem. Guidance tools help children learn responsibility while protecting and strengthening their self-respect. Guidance tools will prevent future problems. "Prevention" tools are more limited because they are much less effective for teaching children.
Because of their importance for teaching, there are more guidance tools than for prevention and consequences.
Pull the 25 guidance tools from the Discipline Toolbox or skim through them by clicking on the tool numbers here. (tools 18-43)
Then examine the Orange Guidance poster and follow the flow of decisions that begins with “Start.” The tools are in the blue boxes; the “triggers” are in gray and general actions in green. The poster will look more complicated when you first see it. Just follow the “yes” and “no” links to take you through the flow. The poster simulates making effective decisions and the choices available to you along the way.
❖ JOURNAL 22 Guidance in your past
As you were growing up did your parents teach you through guidance? You may have not been aware of it at the time, but did they respond to your misbehavior in a way that taught you what is important? Examine the guidance tools. Did your parents use any of them with you?
Complete Worksheet #11 “Selecting guidance tools” in your Responsive Discipline Journal.
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