How to Teach Green and Red Choices: Positive Behavior Support for Preschool Kids

Preschoolers can be curious, kind and considerate one minute and then distracted or defiant the next. As they…

Preschoolers can be curious, kind and considerate one minute and then distracted or defiant the next. As they find their independence in the world, they often test boundaries and push buttons (literally and figuratively). So whether you are an exhausted parent or a frustrated preschool teacher, you might be looking for more information about positive behavior support for preschool children. Remember every child and situation is unique, so use our insights to start your journey toward more green than red choice days–not as a conclusive, resolute guide.

What Types of Behaviors Are Cause for Concern in Preschool Children

Testing limits and boundaries is a natural developmental process for preschoolers. Yet, aggressive or dangerous behaviors–like prolonged tantrums, hitting or extreme disruptions that can cause harm to themselves or others–may warrant interventions beyond simple redirection or rewards. The first step in identifying whether or not a child’s behavior is considered a normal developmental stage or something that may be cause for concern is to talk with other adults in the child’s life including teachers, family members and their pediatrician. The Colorado Early Learning and Development Guidelines (ELDG) offer a reference for families about stages of intellectual, emotional and physical development in children. Our blog post, “Big Feelings for Little Kids: Activities for Preschoolers to Learn About Emotions,” offers additional suggestions and insights about children’s mental health and emotions.

Many early childhood and education providers work with Early Childhood Mental Health Consultants who can help educators and families with mental health supports, developmental delays and other factors that can impact behavior in and out of the childcare and preschool setting.

Brightwheel’s Challenging Behavior in Early Childhood: A Teacher’s Guide outlines how to identify, track, prevent and manage challenging behavior. “Preschooler behaviour: what to expect and how to respond” also offers practical insights and types of young child behavior problems and solutions.

Using Routine and Consistency For Positive Behavior Support in Preschool

There are many reasons why preschoolers may be exhibiting challenging behaviors. Changes at home and in the classroom can often trigger challenging behaviors, so being mindful of helping young learners set or re-establish routines can go a long way in regulating emotions and behavior. Sticking to a consistent routine and schedule helps children build confidence and feel safe, which can lead to more positive behaviors. Our blog post, “Back-to-School Tips for Easing Preschool Anxiety” highlights some basic tips on how to establish a routine, especially when preschool or kindergarten starts.

Leaning Into Positive Behaviors

Once you have unpacked the behavior, using positive behavior recognition could be an approach to try. Positive behavior recognition reinforces desired behaviors with praise or a reward after the positive behavior occurs. Research highlighted in “Recognition for Positive Behavior as a Critical Youth Development Construct: Conceptual Bases and Implications on Youth Service Development” found that recognizing positive behavior can lead to more frequent positive behaviors and reduce negative behaviors. Positive Reinforcement: Guide & Examples for the Classroom outlines how positive reinforcement can boost confidence, reduce anxiety and improve participation in the classroom or at home.

Check out our positive behavior charts to use as starting points if you choose to implement positive reinforcement for your little learner.

Green and red choices is a behavior management approach that can also be helpful at home or at school. You can include preschoolers in identifying “green” choices (good behavior) and “red choices” (not desirable behaviors). This video helps outline the green and red choice approach to behaviors. You can also check out this fun template with visuals of red and green choices to download and utilize.

Put the “P” Into Preschool Activities

Whether it’s play or positive behavior, there are many approaches to supporting young learners in their development (while protecting your sanity). Be sure to check out our other blog posts for inspiration:

For more resources for preschool families, check out our guides on how to save on preschool costs and early childhood resources for Denver families.