Aggression in Young Children Requires Close Attention

▸ Large child/caregiver ratios. Smaller class sizes are better.

▸ Lack of attention to positive behaviors. Children should be rewarded for positive behaviors.

▸ Lack of anticipation of problematic behaviors. Teachers should watch for signs of arising problem behaviors and redirect the child.

▸ Lack of a good curriculum. Children should be adequately stimulated.

▸ Limited space for toys and small-group play. Adequate space for appropriate playing is important for limiting aggressive behaviors.

▸ The use of physical discipline. Physical discipline is problematic in any setting but is unacceptable in the child care setting, Dr. Howard said.