Tír na nÓg Pre-School Centre believes in young children's growing ability to control their lives, to make choices and accept responsibility for their actions. We also believe that all children have the right to expect positive approaches to discipline, which are consistent with these goals. Smacking or any punishment that humiliates, that attacks children's sense of self and makes them feel helpless is damaging and should never be permitted in Early Years Groups.

We in Tír na nÓg have very few rules for the children. The ones we do have are to ensure the safety of all the children in the group. The emphasis is not on obeying rules but that he/she should not annoy or disturb others.

When a child behaves in an inappropriate way, where necessary, they will be withdrawn from the activity to safeguard the other children as well as themselves. This gives staff the opportunity, through one to one discussion with the child, to help them understand why the behaviour is unacceptable. At all times it will he made clear that it is the behaviour and not the child that is unacceptable. If or when problems arise, staff will liaise with parents to develop an agreed strategy for handling the child's behaviour, both in the group and at home.

Parents should feel free to discuss any issues or concerns with the leader, or the child's keyworker and should be kept informed of any circumstances which affect the child. All staff and parents will be made aware of the policy on discipline so that a consistent approach will be followed within the group.