Description should include

• identifying behaviors as developmentally appropriate or inappropriate for each stage
• identifying ways to encourage appropriate behavior at each stage.

Description should also include developmentally appropriate strategies at each stage for

• understanding reasons for a child’s behavior
• communicating effectively
• modeling behaviors or expectations (i.e., role playing)
• setting limits and establishing rules
• using positive reinforcement
• alternates to timeout (e.g., safe space, emotional regulation, ignoring certain behaviors) redirecting a child’s attention
• determining and using natural and logical consequences
• avoiding coercive behavior (e.g., corporal punishment)
• making accommodations for a child with varying needs. 

Teacher Resource:

Virginia’s Early Learning and Development Standards, VDOE

Process/Skill Questions:

Thinking

• What developmental expectations should parents have of their children’s behavior at different stages?
• Why are developmentally appropriate behavioral expectations an essential part of parenting?
• What happens when parents have inappropriate behavioral expectations of children? How might children respond?
• Where do caregivers acquire behavioral expectations of children?
• How might guidance and discipline strategies need to be adapted for children with special needs?

Communication

• What responses might a parent have to a child's attempt at a new task if the parents have developmentally appropriate expectations? Inappropriate expectations?
• What happens when parents try to use adult language and reasoning with young children?
• How can caregivers develop communication skills with children at various developmental stages?

Leadership

• What expectations do you think your parents have of you? What do you do to live up to these expectations?
• What leadership skills can preschoolers learn? What can parents do to help children develop leadership skills?

Management

• What information do parents need to set developmentally appropriate limits for children?
• What are some reliable sources of information for setting developmentally appropriate expectations?
• What self-regulation skills can young children learn? How can parents help children learn these skills? How can teachers help?