Which approach is described as evidence-based for classroom management in early childhood?

• A. Positive Behavior Support with proactive routines, clear expectations, and consistent reinforcement
• B. Punitive discipline after misbehavior
• C. Relying on student self-regulation without guidance
• D. Ignoring routines and expectations

Answer: (A)

Proactive, evidence-based classroom management focuses on teaching and reinforcing expected behavior through predictable routines and clear expectations. Positive Behavior Support does just that: establish routines, state the behaviors you want to see, and reinforce them consistently. In early childhood, routines help children understand what is expected, reduce anxiety, and support self-regulation, while consistent reinforcement strengthens desired behaviors. This approach is supported by research showing improvements in classroom climate and reductions in problem behaviors. The other options rely on punishment, unassisted self-regulation, or no structure—approaches that lack the instructional component and have weaker or negative outcomes for young children.