[Gillian Reese]

Talk to my peers or director about what’s going on and ask for help. Take a break if possible or spend time outside in nature to refill my bucket.

[Akarim]

When experiencing compassion fatigue as an early childhood learning provider, it’s essential to take proactive steps to manage it. First, acknowledge your feelings, recognizing that compassion fatigue is a normal response to the emotional demands of the job. Prioritize self-care by engaging in activities that recharge you, such as exercise, hobbies, or spending quality time with loved ones, ensuring you have downtime to maintain your well-being. Setting clear boundaries between work and personal life can help, including limiting work-related tasks at home. Connecting with colleagues, friends, or support groups allows you to share experiences and alleviate the emotional burden, fostering a sense of community. Incorporating mindfulness practices, such as deep breathing, meditation, or yoga, into your daily routine can reduce stress and enhance emotional resilience. Additionally, take time to reflect on your experiences and reassess what aspects of your work may contribute to your fatigue, considering adjustments to your workload or seeking further training. Engaging in professional development focused on self-care and compassion fatigue management can provide fresh perspectives and coping strategies. Lastly, allow yourself regular breaks throughout the day, even if just for a few minutes, to recharge and clear your mind. By implementing these strategies, you can better manage compassion fatigue and maintain your emotional well-being while continuing to provide quality care to the children in your classroom.

[Mauren]

Talk to the people who understand the way I am feeling always helps. It can be a college or the people I trust to give me the motivation I need. I also take a break, 3v3n if is just for one day to do things I love. Exercise helps me too.

[Vero]

<font style=”vertical-align: inherit;”><font style=”vertical-align: inherit;”>Tratar de darle tranquilidad al niño que se sienta cómodo en el momento de nosotros hablar que no se escuche y si es posible darles un abrazo.</font></font>

[Lashea]

I feel like best way to avoid the compassion stress is an abrupt change in activity . Moving on to better more positive things will help me to overcome the stressors. Also to engage in activities to learn how to handle my short comings

[Skyler McCormick]

It’s a sign that I need to take some extra time to do self care and maybe rely on my co-teacher a little bit more that week. If I was feeling compassion fatigue I’d pick a night to have some alone time and a bath. Or on the other end of that I might ask a friend if we can have a vent sesh over some sweet treats.

[Eliot McIntosh]

I start feeling compassion fatigue when I don’t leave enough room in my day to decompress and alleviate stress.

[Makaylon Dobbs]

When I am having trouble with compassion fatigue, I try to do activities outside of work that relieve stress such as read or listen to music. When I am at work, I communicate how I am feeling to my coworkers and try to be open and honest.

[Kylie Lambert]

Having a good relationship with your coworkers is important so that you have someone trusted that you can talk to when you need to

[Marika Fagan]

Talk to my co-workers.

[Elizabeth]

Communication is key to build a strong partnership

[Anna]

You need to be honest with your peers so they may be able to help you.

[Paula Clement]

I like reading, music and praying. I also take walks.

[Yancen]

I might take a break and also talk to my friend or coworker.

[Lauren Ashley Marasigan]

As an early childhood learning provider, What do you do when you start feeling compassion fatigue?

The first step is recognizing this within yourself. What would help me is talking about this with my partner or peers, making sure to take time for self-care, making sure I’m getting enough sleep and caring for myself as well, unpacking and doing some self-reflection.