At Kaurihohore School we don't have playground rules. Children are allowed to get dirty, they are allowed to use scooters, they are allowed to make huts to roll down hills and within reason climb trees (as long as they don't damage the trees.)
Children are allowed to explore their environment, to use their imagination using random objects like tyres and sheets and encouraged to take responsible risks.
We find by abolishing rules and allowing children to self-monitor in the playground there are less accidents, less behaviour problems and children understand and play to their limits.
Whilst we do not have 'rules' we do have high expectations and Alongside our habits we have a zero tolerance policy towards any bullying and are quick to quash any behaviour that could become a problem if left.
We offer a number of systems like the good citizens and school councillors and treasured playground behaviour to give children something to strive for and to reward those who make consistently good choices.
Our friendship seat is also a way that children can indicate that they are feeling sad or lonely in the playground. If children need a friend, they sit on this seat, one of our lovely citizens will come along and look after them.
Instead of a list of rules, we now have a list of playground habits, we find these much more useful when dealing with any issues in the playground.
Habits For the Playground
At Kaurihohore School we use the Habits of Mind in the playground to ensure we...
- use equipment sensibly
- are considerate to others in the playground
- treat others as we want to be treated
- have fun at all times
- help people out when they need help
- respect school property
- respect the needs of others
- are empathetic
- speak with kindness to others
- always use our initiative and common sense to keep ourselves and others safe
1 comment:
This morning, while viewing your blog, I looked for the first time at the school rules/habits and I jumped for joy. You had made my day.
Congratulations on your wonderful philosophy. If only all people, not just the children in the playground, adopted the same habits the world would be a much better place.
June Brooks(Megan's gran)
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