At Kinderplatz, we understand that every child is a unique individual, full of potential and eager to explore the world. Since our founding in 1985, we’ve been committed to nurturing this exploration through developmentally appropriate behavior guidance, an investigative and intentional curriculum, and a deep understanding of what lies beneath challenging behaviors. Located in Bloomington, MN, Kinderplatz is proud to serve families with a comprehensive and inclusive approach to early childhood education.
As a locally owned childcare facility, we have proudly served our community with dedication. Since earning NAEYC accreditation in 1994, we have consistently upheld the highest standards in behavior guidance and early education, achieving a 97% re-accreditation rating in October 2022. Our approach is rooted in empathy, research-backed strategies, and an unwavering belief in children’s ability to grow, adapt, and flourish with the right tools and support.
Recognizing the Roots of Challenging Behaviors
Challenging behaviors in young children often signal more than mere defiance or mischief. At Kinderplatz, we view these behaviors as meaningful expressions of unmet needs in children or signs of underdeveloped skills. For example, a child may act out due to emotional insecurity, difficulty communicating, or frustration with unfamiliar routines. By interpreting behavior as a form of communication, we can begin to understand each child’s experience and respond with compassion rather than punishment.
We draw on the philosophy of Dr. Rudolph Dreikurs, who emphasized the importance of creating environments of mutual respect and cooperation. In line with this approach, our educators prioritize emotional safety, consistency, and individualized care. This trauma-informed lens helps us build connections with children, reinforcing their sense of belonging and self-worth.
Children do not misbehave without cause. Whether it’s separation anxiety, sensory challenges, or simply being overwhelmed, we identify and address these challenges through observation and intentional intervention. Our goal is to empower children with the tools they need to advance notice to allow extra time to adjust, communicate effectively, and interact positively with others. This holistic view aligns with our belief that behavior guidance should support—not suppress—a child’s natural curiosity and growth.
Developmentally Appropriate Behavior Guidance at Kinderplatz
Guiding behavior appropriately begins with understanding where children are developmentally. At Kinderplatz, we avoid one-size-fits-all discipline methods in favor of positive reinforcement, redirection, and scaffolded learning. By acknowledging each child’s stage of development and unique temperament, we tailor our responses to support growth rather than control behavior.
When a child exhibits challenging behaviors, our teachers assess what skill may be underdeveloped—be it language, impulse control, or social negotiation. They then provide gentle, supportive coaching in those areas. A child struggling to share may be encouraged through structured group activities, modeling, and praise when cooperative play occurs. A child facing difficulties with transitions might receive visual schedules or advance notice to allow extra time to adjust.
We are particularly attentive to trauma-sensitive approaches that avoid shaming or isolating children. Instead, our teacher strives to remain calm, model self-regulation, and use teachable moments to guide future behavior. Safety and consistency are prioritized, helping children learn through secure relationships and predictable routines. Our commitment to individualized attention ensures that every child feels seen, heard, and supported.
This behavior guidance framework is not only rooted in the latest research but also backed by the standards set forth by our NAEYC accreditation. Through our continuous training and reflective practices, our staff remains at the forefront of early childhood education and behavior guidance strategies.
Supporting Growth Through Creative Curriculum and Teaching Strategies GOLD
Kinderplatz’s comprehensive approach to behavior and development is supported by two research-based systems: the Creative Curriculum and Teaching Strategies GOLD assessment tool. These frameworks help our educators understand and support each child’s growth in a holistic, meaningful way.
The Creative Curriculum emphasizes hands-on, play-based learning, allowing children to take initiative and make choices throughout the day. This freedom within structure encourages independence, responsibility, and social competence. Because children are more engaged when they feel in control, challenging behaviors naturally decrease as their confidence and sense of agency increase.
In tandem, Teaching Strategies GOLD allows our teachers to observe, document, and assess children’s development in real time. This continuous loop of feedback helps us identify both areas of strength and areas needing support, which is especially important when guiding behavior. For instance, if a child consistently shows frustration during group time, we can adjust our approach, perhaps offering more movement-based activities or smaller group settings.
By integrating behavior guidance with academic and developmental goals, we ensure that children are supported not just in correcting behavior but in developing the foundational skills they need to thrive—emotionally, socially, and cognitively. This is particularly important for children exhibiting behaviors rooted in unmet needs or underdeveloped skills. With this system, we’re not only addressing the moment but also planning for long-term growth.
Cultural Enrichment and Social-Emotional Learning
At Kinderplatz, we know that behavior is deeply influenced by a child’s cultural identity, social skills, and sense of belonging. That’s why our enrichment programs go beyond traditional academics to foster inclusivity, empathy, and global awareness. Our Spanish immersion program, music and movement sessions, instructional Spanish and sign language classes, and cultural celebrations are not just fun—they’re instrumental in helping children express themselves, understand others, and build social-emotional competence.
Through these experiences, children learn to collaborate, celebrate diversity, and manage the big feelings that often lie beneath challenging behaviors. A child who learns a new song in Spanish or participates in a group dance gains confidence, coordination, and a shared sense of joy with peers. These moments of connection reduce behavioral disruptions by meeting children’s needs for belonging, engagement, and expression.
Our bias-resistant curriculum helps children identify unfairness and speak up respectfully, skills that are directly connected to our behavior guidance goals. When children feel respected and see their cultures reflected in their classroom, they are less likely to act out and more likely to engage positively.
This inclusive and proactive approach ensures that children not only learn about the world around them but also how to navigate it with compassion and resilience. It is yet another layer in our multi-faceted approach to understanding and responding to challenging behaviors.
Partnering with Parents for Consistent Support
We believe that behavior guidance works best when it’s a collaborative effort. At Kinderplatz, we engage parents every step of the way, creating open lines of communication that allow us to work as a unified team. Our online communication app delivers daily updates on each child’s behavior, activities, meals, and naps, giving families real-time insights into their child’s day.
Parent-teacher conferences provide an opportunity for deeper discussion, where we review developmental progress, discuss observed behaviors, and co-create strategies for home and school consistency. Our monthly Parent Connection Newsletters also share tips, resources, and updates on upcoming events to keep families informed and engaged.
When challenging behaviors arise, we work together with parents to understand the child’s environment, routines, and any stressors that may be contributing. This partnership approach is essential for consistent behavior guidance, helping children receive the same messages and support in both home and childcare settings.
Parents appreciate our transparency, proactive communication, and deep respect for their role in their child’s development. It’s not uncommon for families to tell us that they’ve seen their children flourish emotionally and socially after joining Kinderplatz. That’s the power of shared effort and trust.
Conclusion
As we continue to serve the Bloomington, MN community, Kinderplatz remains committed to creating nurturing, trauma-free spaces where children can explore, grow, and become their best selves. Our comprehensive and individualized approach to childcare behavior strategies reflects our belief that every behavior is an opportunity to connect, understand, and support. Whether a child is learning to share, manage big feelings, or communicate needs, we are here to guide them with patience, knowledge, and care.
For families seeking a thoughtful, research-based approach to early childhood development—one that balances structure with creativity, and behavior guidance with genuine warmth—Kinderplatz offers a home away from home. Reach out to us today to learn more about how we can support your child’s journey through those crucial early years.