Allow child to talk about their emotions. Let them know their emotions are valid and okay to have. Help them work through their emotions (lead and guide but let them have an active role in figuring out what to do and brainstorming how to solve a problem/situation).

Listening when they are talking. Helping them work through their emotions and how to handle them. Letting them know that you are here to care and support them.

exercising, listening to music, getting outside, eating healthy (and some dark chocolate), talking with someone I love are all ways I destress and feel my best.

Spend time getting to know each child individual. Strive to do things with each child that let’s them know you are seeing them, listening to them, and that they are important.

yes, emergencies, illnesses, and the like would be good to have written out guidelines for caregivers to know what will be done.

a single level crib or playpen, with a snug fitting, firm mattress, no blankets, stuffies, or toys in the crib

using music can make handwashing, teeth brushing, cleaning up etc. fun and engaging

cleanness and organization of the room(s) and toys, fire alarms, gates, and fences, kitchen blocked (lots of safety hazards here

Make a report and talk with the director of the child care center.

I would want: safety, kindness, encouragement of my child’s skills and interests

I would fear: harm (physical/emotional), that I would miss important moments of my child’s life,

Do some cooking/baking together (shake butter, make cornbread, or trail mix, or lemonade). Let them draw pictures of the steps and (if old enough label or write out the steps). Set up a scavenger hunt and leave room for them to find a “treasure/surprise” that they can share with you that isn’t included on the list/pictures. Ask questions…

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I think items that encourage imaginative play and interaction (envelops and a mailbox for pretending post office, boxes and food cans to play grocery store and shopping, etc) are really important for children to have access to.

Know and practice what you are going to say before hand. Have examples (concrete and detailed) to support what you are saying. Talk with them in a private area when they have time for the conversation. Give them time to express feelings and ask questions. Have strategies for assisting and supporting ready to discuss as well.

Observing a child in my care helps me know where they are at in their with individual growth and development goals. It allows me to plan learning experience and interactions that will meet them where they are at and scaffold them as they continue to develop.

Screen time for young children is not beneficial for development. It inhibits their interaction with the real world and has a negative impact on their ability to focus and concentrate.

Serve and Return can be done all throughout the day, but circle time and whole group activity time where each child has a role to participate in and engage with are great times.

We need to be welcoming and inclusive to all our families. We need to support and encourage the children in our care to develop a secure sense of identity and be positive role models of diversity.