Why do some children get a reputation as a 'problem' or as 'naughty' in the early years at school? What can we do to change adult perceptions of 'troublesome' youngsters? These were the questions that we tackled, first in a research project, and then in a film aimed at people who work with young children. We hope the film, which comes with support materials, will spark discussion and questions and so prompt practitioners to rethink their established practices and their assumptions about young children's behaviour.
'Problem' behaviour in school is always a controversial issue. Its origins are often thought to relate to the child's level of maturity, family practices, or a combination of both. However, this can lead practitioners to believe that responsibility for behaviour lies entirely with children or their familes, and that it is the role of early education to compensate for this lack in the child or their home. We believe that this overlooks the role of the early education system and schooling itself in producing 'problem' behaviour and 'bad' reputations.
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