Logical Consequences

Logical consequences are an alternative to punishment.

They are responses to the child’s behavior that are logically related to the behavior (e.g., if you play i nappropriately with the toy, you lose access to the toy).
They teach children that they have responsibility for and control over their own behavior.
They show children the results of their behavior.

Logical consequences must be practical and enforced.

Only select options that you are willing to enforce.
Do not help the child by intervening before the consequence takes place.
If you feel empathy for the child, offer a chance to try again later.

Choices should be stated calmly, clearly, and respectfully.

Consequences should not be arbitrary, threatening, or punitive. Plan the consequences ahead of time.
Options for actions, or consequences, should be logically linked to the activity.

Logical consequences help guide children in learning how they are expected to behave in the real world.

Logical consequences should be discussed with the child prior to the activity or routine where the behavior is likely to occur.
Logical consequences are used to inform the child about behavior that is expected and why it is.

Examples of the Use of Logical Consequences

Problem Behavior	Logical Consequences
Austin does not put his art project in his cubby after finishing.	Austin's teacher tells Austin that if he does not put his work away, then it may be thrown away during clean-up time, and he will not be able to show it to his grandmother.
Kyra walks away from the computer without putting her disk in the case.	Kyra's teacher reminds her that the disk must be put away or that it will be difficult for children to find the program. Kyra refuses and the next day the disk is unavailable for use because it is not in the case.
Peter throws blocks from the loft.	The teacher reminds Peter of the rule "toys need to stay on the floor in the loft." When Peter continues to throw blocks, the teacher provides him with the choice, "Blocks stay on the floor of the loft, or they will need to be returned to the block area."
Roberto refuses to wash his hands before snack.	Roberto's teacher restates the rule to Roberto, "You must wash hands to eat." Roberto continues to refuse. The teacher responds, "You can wash your hands and have a snack, or you can continue playing while the other children have snack."

September 2005

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This material was developed by the Center on the Social and Emotional Foundations for Early Learning with federal funds from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Administration for Children and Families (Cooperative Agreement N. PHS 90YD0119). The contents of this publication do not necessarily reflect the views or policies of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, nor does mention of trade names, commercial projects, or organizations imply endorsement by the U.S. Government. You may reproduce this material for training and information purposes.

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