Patti, a childcare provider/preschool teacher in the Green Bay area participated in comprehensive Conscious Discipline® training in 2003. She continued her journey by reading the books authored by Dr. Becky Bailey and implementing many of the structures of safety, composure, helpfulness and contribution with her preschool students. Patti has frequently commented that she has been able to see that “yelling at children or using time outs in order to make them behave…just doesn’t work.” Staying calm when dealing with the upset that children demonstrate has been her daily goal. Patti works to “”Be a S.T.A.R.” each day as she reminds herself to Stop, Take a deep breathe, And Relax. She also teaches children to use these calming techniques as well through songs and the classroom jobs.
In 2004 Patti decided to open her own childcare center. She indicated that she wanted to offer a “better way for children in a safe and caring environment.” Patti now directs and teaches in a thriving, cozy center where the principles of Conscious Discipline® are practiced on a daily basis. Children begin each day the Brain Smart™ way and the classrooms are equipped with Safe Places and other structures that can support even the most challenging children.
The songs from the Conscious Discipline® CD’s and the Shubert Books are among the favorites of her students. Patti recently hosted an all day Saturday workshop for 35 community providers and parents at her childcare center. Peggy and Kay were energized by the enthusiasm of this group and wish each participant well as they begin their Conscious Discipline® journey. One participant responded that, “This workshop made me feel capable of handling confrontation by knowledge and example.” Another participant indicated that she “liked the fact that the presenters were teachers and actually using Conscious Discipline® in the classroom and not just lecturers”.
Patti now describes her job as “a real joy” and her childcare center as “a better place” for children. Patti indicated that Conscious Discipline® has changed the way that she works with children. We wish you well, Patti.