Sample interview questions: Describe a time when you had to handle a challenging behavior in a preschooler. How did you address it?
Sample answer:
Challenging Behavior Management
During my tenure as a preschool teacher, I faced a challenging behavior from a student named Ethan. He exhibited frequent tantrums and disruptive behaviors, disrupting classroom activities and hindering his peers’ learning.
Addressing the Behavior
To address this behavior, I employed a multi-pronged approach:
- Observation: I meticulously observed Ethan’s behavior patterns to identify triggers and develop strategies.
- Communication: I communicated with his parents and sought their insights into his behavior at home. I established a collaborative partnership with them to address the issue consistently.
- Positive Reinforcement: I focused on rewarding Ethan’s positive behaviors, such as cooperating with peers and following instructions. I implemented a point system that allowed him to earn rewards for appropriate behavior.
- Setting Clear Boundaries: I established clear expectations and consequences for unacceptable behavior. When Ethan engaged in disruptive behaviors, I calmly but firmly redirected him to appropriate outlets for expressing his emotions.
- Behavior Modification Plan: I developed an individualized behavior modification plan in collaboration with Ethan’s parents and the school counselor. This plan provided a structured framework for addressing specific behaviors.
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