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In a thought-provoking article in Exchange (January/February 2006), "The Value of Real Work With Children Exhibiting Challenging Behavior," Linda Ranson Jacobs made a convincing case for helping children with challenging behaviors mediate their behavior by involving them in real work.  She observed...

"When a child had to be removed from the classroom he or she was brought to the office;  our goal was to change the child’s outlook and give the child an opportunity to feel good about himself.  Many times angry children have excessive energy. Using the energy constructively helps a child channel all of the energy into being helpful.  What worked particularly well for children under stress was anything having to do with water, such as washing toys, washing dishes, and washing windows.  Children that stomped or kicked were encouraged to vacuum the carpets.  Depending on the child and the situation, choices might be offered, and the child allowed to pick what would help them get their body in control.  By performing these jobs, the children began having positive experiences.  They began to feel better about themselves and this transferred to better connections in their own world.  Their world began to make sense;  relationships began to flourish.  Order and organization on the outside brought a sense of control with their emotions on the inside."

Contributed by Exchange, The Early Childhood Leaders' Magazine Since 1978

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