Promoting Positive Behaviour in Early Years: Tips & Guide

Encouraging positive behaviour in young children is a fundamental part of early childhood development. During these formative years, children begin to develop social skills, emotional regulation, and an understanding of acceptable behaviour. Promoting positive behaviour in early years requires patience, consistency, and an awareness of the various influences shaping a child's behaviour.

In this guide, we explore how to identify negative and positive influences on behaviour, provide practical strategies for fostering a supportive environment, and discuss how Montessori education contributes to a child’s behavioural development.

Understanding Behaviour in Early Years

Young children are highly impressionable, and their behaviour is influenced by their environment, relationships, and experiences. Recognising these influences can help parents and educators develop effective strategies for encouraging positive behaviour.

Positive Influences on Behaviour:

• Consistent routines and expectations
• Positive role models
• Encouragement and praise
• Engaging and stimulating environments
• Safe and secure relationships with caregivers

Negative Influences on Behaviour:

• Lack of consistency in discipline
• Exposure to stress or conflict
• Limited opportunities for social interaction
• Excessive screen time
• Inconsistent routines and boundaries

Promoting Positive Behaviour in Early Years

There are several evidence-based strategies for promoting positive behaviour in early childhood settings and at home.

1. Establish Clear Expectations

Children thrive when they understand what is expected of them. Setting clear, age-appropriate rules and consistently reinforcing them helps build a structured environment where positive behaviour is encouraged.

2. Use Positive Reinforcement

Praising and rewarding good behaviour reinforces positive actions. Simple acknowledgements like “Well done for sharing your toys!” help children understand what behaviour is valued.

3. Model Positive Behaviour

Children learn by observing those around them. Demonstrating kindness, patience, and respect sets an example for young children to emulate.

4. Encourage Emotional Expression

Helping children express their emotions in healthy ways prevents frustration from manifesting as negative behaviour. Teaching simple phrases like “I feel upset” instead of acting out encourages communication.

5. Create a Stimulating Environment

Engaging and structured environments reduce frustration and promote cooperative play. Ensuring children have access to a variety of activities fosters curiosity and positive engagement.

The Role of Montessori Education

Montessori education plays a significant role in promoting positive behaviour. By fostering independence, respect, and self-discipline, Montessori methods create an environment where children learn responsibility and cooperation.

How Montessori Encourages Positive Behaviour:

• Child-led learning fosters autonomy and decision-making skills
• Respect for the environment and peers is emphasised
• Practical life activities encourage responsibility
• Mixed-age classrooms promote mentorship and collaboration

Managing Behaviour in Early Years Settings: Best Practices for Early Educators 

Managing behaviour in early years settings is all about creating a positive, supportive environment. Young children are still learning how to express themselves, so patience and clear communication are key.

Consistency is crucial—set simple rules and stick to them. Children thrive when they know what to expect, so use routines to provide structure and security.

Positive reinforcement works wonders. Praise good behaviour rather than just correcting the bad. A simple “Well done for sharing!” can encourage kindness and cooperation.

Every child is different, so adapt your approach. Some may need more reassurance, while others respond well to gentle redirection. Understanding their needs helps prevent challenges.

Finally, model the behaviour you want to see. Children learn by watching adults, so showing empathy, respect, and calmness teaches them to do the same. With patience and consistency, you can nurture a happy, well-behaved early years setting.

How to Implement EYFS Behaviour Management Techniques in Your Setting

Implementing EYFS behaviour management techniques starts with setting clear, consistent expectations. Young children need simple rules they can understand, reinforced through repetition and positive reinforcement.

A nurturing environment plays a key role. Creating a space where children feel safe and valued encourages positive behaviour. Use praise and encouragement to reinforce good choices rather than focusing on punishment.

Communication is essential. Model the behaviour you want to see, using calm tones and clear language. Visual aids, such as picture schedules, can help children understand routines and expectations.

Every child is unique, so flexibility is key. Some may need extra reassurance, while others benefit from structured activities that support emotional regulation. Observing their behaviour helps tailor your approach effectively.

At Hatching Dragons London Nursery, we integrate EYFS behaviour management strategies to nurture confident, kind, and independent learners. Our approach focuses on positive reinforcement, emotional development, and creating a supportive, engaging environment for all children.

Effective Strategies for Dealing with Challenging Behaviour in Early Years 

Dealing with challenging behaviour in early years requires patience, consistency, and a positive approach. Young children are still learning how to express their emotions, so guidance and support are key.

Establish clear, simple rules that children can understand. Reinforce them consistently so they know what is expected. Visual cues and structured routines can help provide a sense of security.

Positive reinforcement works better than punishment. Praise good behaviour and use rewards like stickers or verbal encouragement to reinforce positive actions. Acknowledging effort helps build confidence.

Teach emotional regulation through storytelling, role-play, and breathing exercises. Helping children recognise and manage their feelings reduces frustration and outbursts.

At Hatching Dragons, we use a nurturing approach to encourage positive behaviour. By combining EYFS-aligned strategies with cultural awareness and emotional development, we create an environment where every child feels valued, respected, and supported in their early learning journey.

Conclusion

Promoting positive behaviour in early years is a collaborative effort that involves understanding influences on behaviour, reinforcing positive actions, and creating nurturing environments. Whether at home or in an educational setting, consistent guidance and encouragement help young children develop essential social and emotional skills.

By integrating strategies from Montessori education and focusing on how to identify negative and positive influences on behaviour, caregivers can set children up for success both socially and academically.