The early years of a child’s life set the tone for their future learning, emotional well-being, and relationships. It's a time when they absorb social norms, respond to their environment, and start building their moral compass. One of the most effective ways to guide their development is through Positive Behaviour Support (PBS)—a gentle, structured approach designed not only to reduce challenging behaviours but to encourage empathy, kindness, and resilience.

In this article, we explore what PBS really means in the context of early childhood education, how it differs from traditional discipline, and why it matters more than ever. We’ll also unpack strategies, case studies, and expert perspectives that will help parents, educators, and carers support children in building pro-social behaviour from the very beginning.

What Is Positive Behaviour Support (PBS)?

At its core, Positive Behaviour Support is a proactive, person-centred approach that focuses on understanding why a child behaves the way they do and using that understanding to guide positive change. Unlike punitive systems that focus on reacting to bad behaviour, PBS is rooted in empathy and prevention.

PBS involves:

• Observing and understanding triggers behind behaviours.

• Teaching appropriate alternatives.

• Reinforcing positive actions consistently.

• Adjusting environments to reduce stress or frustration.

For early years, PBS must be developmentally appropriate. Children between 0-5 are still learning how to regulate emotions, communicate effectively, and navigate social interactions. PBS guides them gently through these stages, offering support, structure, and safety.

For those looking to develop skills in this area, Shreeji Training offers a dedicated Positive Behaviour Support course designed for early years practitioners and caregivers.

Why Early Intervention is Crucial

Research has consistently shown that early intervention in behavioural development leads to better long-term outcomes. According to a 2022 report from the Early Intervention Foundation, children who receive support before the age of five are significantly less likely to display persistent behavioural problems later in life.

Here’s why early intervention works:

• Neuroplasticity: Young brains are more adaptable.

• Social modelling: Early years are critical for learning social norms.

• Reduced risk of exclusion: Supporting behaviour early reduces the need for exclusion in primary school settings.

When kindness, empathy, and cooperation are encouraged early, they become part of a child’s internal compass. PBS does more than correct behaviour—it nurtures compassion.

Traditional Discipline vs Positive Behaviour Support

Traditional approaches often rely on punishment, reward charts, and firm commands. While some structure is essential, rigid systems can suppress a child’s need to explore, express, and understand their emotions.

Comparison Example:

• Traditional Discipline: A child throws a toy. The adult scolds them or removes playtime.

• PBS Approach: The adult calmly investigates why the toy was thrown (tiredness, frustration, lack of attention) and teaches the child a better way to express that feeling.

The difference lies in the intent. PBS seeks to understand, not to control. This distinction is especially critical in early years, when language skills are still developing.

Embedding Kindness into the Curriculum

You don’t need a separate subject called “Kindness” to make it part of everyday learning. In fact, PBS can be seamlessly woven into daily routines:

• Storytime: Choose books that highlight empathy, sharing, and cooperation.

• Role Play: Use pretend play to model conflict resolution.

• Circle Time: Discuss feelings openly and teach children the vocabulary to describe their emotions.

Educators and carers can receive specialist training to support this through Specific Conditions Training which addresses unique behavioural needs.

Creating Safe and Predictable Environments

Young children thrive on predictability. PBS encourages structured routines with room for flexibility. Predictability builds trust, which in turn reduces anxiety and frustration.

Tips for setting a safe PBS-friendly environment:

• Clear visual schedules.

• Calm-down corners or sensory zones.

• Simple, positive instructions.

• Recognising and validating emotions.

Training in Safeguarding Children also ensures that adults in care roles are equipped to provide safe environments, both emotionally and physically.

The Role of Adults in Modelling Positive Behaviour

Children learn best by watching. If adults respond to stress with patience, children will too. If adults apologise when they make mistakes, children will mirror that behaviour.

Ways to model kindness:

• Show empathy: “I can see you're feeling upset. Let’s talk about it.”

• Celebrate effort, not just success.

• Use affirming language.

• Stay calm in challenging moments.

Case Study: PBS in an Early Years Setting

At a nursery in Manchester, a team introduced PBS principles after a noticeable rise in aggressive play. Instead of implementing stricter rules, they introduced a weekly “Kindness Circle” where children shared moments they were proud of. Staff received Positive Behaviour Support and Physical Intervention Training to handle situations safely and respectfully.

Within three months:

• Instances of hitting and pushing dropped by 40%.

• Children independently began comforting peers.

• Staff reported greater job satisfaction and less stress.

The approach created a community, not a classroom.

The Link Between PBS and Inclusive Education

PBS supports inclusion because it acknowledges the needs of all children—including those with additional needs, neurodivergence, or trauma histories. It’s aligned with the values of the Oliver McGowan Mandatory Training, which advocates for understanding and reasonable adjustments in care.

By avoiding labels like “naughty” and focusing on unmet needs, PBS supports dignity and equal opportunity. This approach also builds resilience and reduces reliance on reactive interventions.

Common Challenges and How to Overcome Them

1. Lack of consistency: All adults in the child’s life must use the same PBS strategies. Solution: shared language and team training.

2. Time pressure: In busy settings, it’s tempting to default to quick discipline. Solution: embed PBS in routines to save time long-term.

3. Parent-school disconnect: Mixed messages at home and school can confuse children. Solution: Offer PBS workshops for families to align strategies.

Final Thoughts: Building a Kinder Future Begins Now

Positive Behaviour Support isn’t just a strategy; it’s a philosophy of care, empathy, and belief in every child’s potential. In early years, it lays the groundwork for lifelong emotional intelligence, social cooperation, and inner confidence.

By modelling kindness, creating safe spaces, and understanding behaviour through a compassionate lens, we raise more than well-behaved children—we nurture humans who care.

Whether you’re a parent, early years professional, or school leader, investing in PBS is one of the most powerful decisions you can make for a child's future.

Source : https://medium.com/@shreejitraining11/positive-behaviour-support-for-early-years-encouraging-kindness-from-the-start-a74b28b0ec5e