Positive vs. Negative Climate

One of the sections in the CLASS assessment looks at Positive Climate vs. Negative Climate.  This is an area where most programs do well.

What makes a climate positive? 

What does a negative climate look/feel like?

The CLASS identifies the following as indicators of a positive climate:

Relationships

·         Physical proximity

·         Matched positive affect

·         Reciprocal interactions

·         Peer connections

Positive Affect

·         Smiling, laughter

·         Enthusiasm

·         Verbal or physical affection

 Respect

·         Warm, calm voice

·         Respectful language and communication

·         Eye contact

·         Body orientation

How would you rate the positivity of your classroom/program?  How could you increase the positive climate?

The CLASS also identifies indicators of a negative climate – for this you hope to have a LOW score!

Negative Affect

·         Irritability

·         Anger

·         Harsh voice

Punitive Control

·         Yelling

·         Threats

·         Physical actions/punishment

Teacher Negativity

·         Sarcastic voice/statement

·         Teasing

·         Humiliation

Child Negativity

·         Peer disputes

·         Escalating frustration

·         Escalation of negativity

I have seen classrooms that would score high in the negative climate.  If you feel that you have times that feel like this, ask yourself, “When and why does this child display negative behavior?”  and “How do I react to specific behaviors or children?”  Are there some children who just push your buttons?  Are there times of the day that everyone just struggles to be pleasant?  Examine those times and feelings and see if some small changes might make a difference. 

Stuff happens...  When do you find the scale tipping toward the negative climate?  What are some ways you can move the scale back to the positive side?  What some coping skills adults can use?  That children can learn?