Hi - I wanted to sense check this with a few people first before I bring it up with DS's teacher. I'll also state now that I will absolutely check my facts before I bring it up - and won't be confrontational either way.
DS is 5 and in P1 (Scottish equivalent of reception). His class teacher left the school after October half term which was not ideal but hasn't proved too disruptive. A new internal appointment was made and while she seems fairly reserved - old-fashioned even - I've had good communication with her whenever necessary.
She has a bit of a reputation as a disciplinarian and a couple of parents have asked me in the playground what we think of her and whether DS has had any negative opinions of her. He hasn't and so I've kept an open mind. Anecdotally I've heard that she's strict and a bit shouty but again, I've not seen that first hand.
We had an incident this week where DS ended up on the 'cloud' for rule breaking- I'm led to believe that this is fairly standard sanctioning so hopefully you know what I mean. The kids lose 2, 4 6 or 8 mins of their golden time free play once a week, depending on how bad the behaviour has been. I have no problem with this.
DS was on the 2 mins cloud except that he told us the times have now been changed to 5, 10, 15 and 20 mins. AIBU to think that it's fairly draconian to expect a 5yo to sit doing nothing for up to 20 mins? I've asked DS whether they have to do anything while sitting out their 'cloud' time like tidying up or extra work but he said no, they sit on the carpet watching their friends play.
AIBU to think this sounds too harsh? I'm all for teaching that actions have consequences but 20 mins seems to be too long at age 5. Does anyone have similar at their school as a comparison?