Behaviour and discipline
How should a teacher respond when a child hits another child?
Direct answer
First protect both children and obtain any needed assistance. State clearly that hitting is unsafe, help the children settle and attend to the child who was hurt. Later, address what led to the incident and teach a safer alternative.
What this means in practice
A calm response can be firm. Avoid public humiliation or assuming the incident reveals the child's character. A forced apology alone does not establish understanding; repair should follow safety, regulation and discussion of the behaviour.
Practical next steps
- Separate safely and check for injury.
- Use a short clear boundary.
- Teach and practise a replacement response.
Illustrative example
After a toy dispute, practise requesting a turn or seeking adult help, then support a suitable act of repair when both children are ready.
What to keep in mind
Repeated aggression or serious injury requires a coordinated response through school and professional procedures.
Sources and further reading
The sources inform the explanation. Practical examples are educational illustrations, not individual clinical advice. How these answers are prepared.
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