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The behavior management program at Elizabeth Ives School is based upon the principles of psycho-educational theory and borrows from other disciplines such as re-education. Extensive staff collaboration is necessary to make the behavior program work and consistent parental communication is highly encouraged. At the present time, the staff is being trained in the Circle of Courage and other strength based models. We support the belief that all acting out behavior is based upon an unmet need. We need to determine what the need is, help the child meet it in an appropriate way, and enable them to build relationships with trusted adults so that they can learn to use words to describe what they are feeling and experiencing, and then find the appropriate coping technique to go along with the feeling. The Circle of Courage is based in four universal growth needs of all children: belonging, mastery, independence, and generosity. Belonging is the sense of being part of a larger community. Mastery satisfies the innate human drive to be competent and able to solve problems. Independence is the ability to make decisions, solve problems, and demonstrate responsibility. Generosity is giving back in some way and contributing to the greater good.
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