The eight triggers for unacceptable behaviour in this list are a little more complex and will require more management. The main reasons for children to resort to unwanted behaviour through one of these causes, is down to their age and lack of understanding. There is little you can do about a child’s age and level of understanding except to take solace in the fact that they will get older and grasp things in time!

Testing the limits and pushing boundaries is something that all children will do at some time. Making sure that children are aware of the rules will help to eliminate this problem. The “grey” areas when parents collect their children from early years settings are often the times when children will play up. They are unsure who is in control at this point, their parent, childminder, nursery nurse, etc. The rules they have adhered to all day have gone out of the window and begin to think they can do as they please. The child is effectively challenging their carer to comment on the behaviour they are showing whilst their parent is present. Ideally in this situation the parent will reprimand their own child however, there may be occasions when a child is doing something that they know is unacceptable but that the parent is not aware of. For example if you do not allow children to climb on the furniture when the parent is not present do not let them do this when their parent walks through the door. They may e allowed to do many things at home which you will not allow in your own setting and children must learn the difference. Never ignore unacceptable behaviour just because a child’s parent is present. This sends out the wrong message not only to the child who is misbehaving but to every other child present.

There may be occasions when a child behaves in a way that doesn’t meet with the adults expectations because they are unaware or do not realise the danger of the situation. For example a child who runs into the road does not do so because they are trying to get knocked down by a car. They are doing so to attract adult attention and do not fully understand the danger of their actions. Making sure that a child is never in a dangerous situation is the way to avoid this cause of inappropriate behaviour. If a child insists on running into the road after the dangers have been explained to him then using a restraint such as reins or a wrist strap will prevent this behaviour from happening again until the child is able to accept the situation.

Children may also exhibit unacceptable behaviour when exploring their surroundings. Children are, by nature, inquisitive and they like to explore their surroundings. They should be allowed to explore whenever possible however it is your duty to ensure that the environment is safe and suitable for such exploration. Remove any potential hazards such as ornaments and vases on low tables and ensure they can not push things into sockets, video recorders etc.

Children learn through watching and copying. Is a child really being naughty therefore when he pulls up tulips after watching you weed the garden? Can we really expect a three year old to know the difference between a weed and a plant? In cases like these children should be allowed to explore the garden, help you to plant seeds and flowers, pull up weeds etc but they should do so under supervision. Explain to them what you are doing and why and show them which plants to care for and which to dispose of. Remember whilst children will imitate our good behaviour and traits they will also copy our bad behaviour and it is up to us to provide them with a positive role model at all times.

Attention seeking behaviour can often be a way for children to get noticed. A child who is playing well and appears engrossed in an activity can all too often be over looked. If a child is exhibiting attention seeking behaviour is this because “bad” behaviour is the only way he gets any attention? If so you must look carefully at how you treat the children. Praise and reward the children who are showing pleasing behaviour and lavish attention on them rather than on the child who is showing inappropriate behaviour.

Young children are often unable to control their emotions and feelings. They may become angry and lash out or cry for seemingly trivial reasons. Children need to be encouraged to explore their feelings and emotions and talk about the way they are feeling. Always ensure that the child knows they can talk to you but never pressure them into opening up if they do not want to. Do not laugh or ridicule a child ho gets upset or angry but offer reassurance.

Sometimes children can get angry and frustrated if they are feeling left out or consider that they are being unfairly treated. Patience is not something that most children are good at showing and they often find it hard to wait their turn or to share. Explain to the child that they are not being left out but, like everyone else, they need to wait their turn.

Keep an eye on group activities which do not include an adult and make sure that no-one is being overlooked. Groups of three can often cause problems as one person inevitably feels left out. Encourage activities which include everyone and show children how to share and take turns.

A child who is experiencing lots of change in their family circumstances or is new to the setting may be feeling unsettled and confused. These feelings, like most emotions, can be very powerful and may even frighten a child who is experiencing them. Reassure the child as much as possible and make them feel welcome and valued. Give the child as much one to one attention as possible and encourage them to take part in simple activities. Take your cue from the child and never force them to take part in anything they are not happy doing. Children will often sit and watch others for some time before finding the confidence to join in.