Discipline
In the Glossary I share about the 3-count and 5-count, which are directly out of the Cubbies Leader Role Book. Here's my take.
I hear leaders frequently say, "Cubbies don't know the 5-count, so we can't use it." "Cubbies don't know the Cubbie Buddy levels, so we can't use it." But Cubbies won't learn unless you use them, and it's best to start at the beginning of the club year in detail and then review as needed throughout the year. It's important to remove the shame from this learning process. Cubbies are finding out what will happen if.... So we need to let them, without shame.
The 5-count is for group discipline, to regain attention from the group. The leader begins counting out loud and on their fingers with their hand above their head. All other leaders count silently on their fingers with their hands above their head. Always complete the 5-count, even if you regain attention sooner. (You can speed through the final numbers.) Repeat the 5-count as needed until you have the group's attention.
Learning the 5-count in Cubbies is critical because they will rely on it heavily in Sparks. Having a Cubbie enter Sparks already prepared will be a huge help to the Sparks group.
The 3-count is for individual discipline. Three strikes and you're out. When Sally does something that is against the rules (let's say climbing on the table), reinforce that she already knows not to do that. Would you do that at home? Then you can't do that at Cubbies, either. This is your first warning. Two more warnings and you will need to _______ (fill in the blank). It is important for your club to decide what the blank is. In my club, they were sent to the director's office. You may want them to sit out of one game at Game Time, or sit against the wall for a period of time.
If a Cubbie makes it to the third strike, and you implement your consequence, when the consequence is over, ask the Cubbie if they are ready to return to the group. If not, they can stay a bit longer. If they are, you will need to explain that they will need to say they are sorry for ____ (whatever they did: not listening, not obeying, or whatever). When they say they are sorry, it is very important that the leader says, "I forgive you." I can't stress that enough, because that is the gospel in action right there. Sin, repentance, forgiveness. It is crucial for demonstrating the Gospel message to Cubbies.
The goal of discipline is to return the Cubbie to the classroom. Sharing these types of infractions with parents is not necessary unless it becomes a habit. However, keep in mind there will be some infractions your church may have a no tolerance policy on. If not, create your own thoughts on the subject to keep in mind. Such as hitting, spitting, bad language. Those types of behaviors might warrant only one strike, not three, and may warrant a conversation with parents.
Ultimately, if bad behaviors continue, you have the option to ask parents to keep the Cubbie home for one week, but this would be a last resort.
5-counts and 3-counts can be used at the discretion of the leader. Anything more escalated should be discussed with the director or even your Awana Ministry Director (commander). Only Cubbies Directors or AMDs should discuss bad behavior with parents. Leaders want to focus on fun, good, positive reinforcement. (Johnny prayed for snack today and told God how much he loves Mommy. Suzy helped Bobby during Game Time when he fell down and got hurt. Sarah did great sharing today. Timmy cheers very well for his teammates.)
Again, the goal of discipline is to return the Cubbie to their classroom.
