No Time Out? Imagine That!

I have a great Imagine That! class this semester for 3 and 4 year olds! They are full of enthusiasm and energy and give me a good work out! I have been trying to apply some of Alfie Kohn's principles in all of my classes but especially this one because it is without the parent. I have to tell you that not having time out or any type of rewards (except for the joy of participation) it is very difficult. I am really making a commitment not to go backward in my new standards so I am ordering a few more of his books on classroom management to help. "Punnished by Rewards" and "From Compliance to Community". I thought that I would share my struggle with you as you may struggle with the same thing! Ok. These lovely preschoolers: they don't always do what I want. They don't always follow the structure of the class. But I am convinced that each one is learning music while having fun, forming community by making friends, and feels unconditionally accepted. No longer do I see faces drop when I explain that I have a time out area (because I no longer have one). It may take a little longer for the class to run more smoothly (at least by my standards) but I am sure that it is already better than before! Imagine That!