This position statement for administrators, teachers, providers, and caregivers for young children discusses developmentally appropriate guidance techniques for children from birth to 8 years of age. The seven principles discussed are: (1) Children are in the process of learning acceptable behavior; (2) An effective guidance approach is preventive because it respects feelings while it addresses behavior; (3) Adults need to understand the reasons for children's behavior; (4) A supportive relationship between an adult and a child is the most critical component of effective guidance; (5) Adults use forms of guidance and group management that help children learn self-control and responsiveness to the needs of others; (6) Adults model appropriate expression of their feelings; (7) Adults continue to learn even as they teach. Resources for further reading are cited. Principles are discussed in terms of applications and examples. (RH)