Guidance
I believe the strongest factor in guiding a child's behavior is how they see adults reacting to situations. Therefore I try to be a positive role model and set by example.
Physical punishment is not allowed at our daycare. Nor are any verbal, physical, or emotional responses or acts that would undermine, belittle, or degrade a child's self respect allowed.
I plan a weekly activity calendar to keep children busy with activities throughout the day. They are much less apt to be bored or misbehave when they are involved in activities.
I also use positive reinforcement during the day when a child is exhibiting good behaviour (ex- "Johhny, that was very nice of you to share your book with Billy").
Sometimes redirection of a child's activity and/or energy is necessary ("We can't throw balls in the house, but we can roll them across the floor", "Since Tommy had the truck first, why don't we race cars?").If a child still exhibits undesirable behaviour (physically hurting another child, tantrums, etc) a time out will be in order. The rule of thumb is one minute for each year of age.