[Noung]

In the past, I’ve seen a teacher use feelings cards with the class. She identified them and went over how it “looks” like during circle time. There was also a short yoga session when the class became too chaotic and loud. Another time, I saw a teacher react the way the child was acting and narrated how he felt before helping them. Overall, I think modeling feelings and self-regulating methods seem to work well with children.

[Noung]

I tend to tell myself it is not my fault and that I can’t change everything. I can only do what I am capable and that there is a limit. It also helped when I talk to my coteachers and we share our thoughts regarding certain situations and students.

[Noung]

A responsive exchange I’ve done was to help children solve their issue with sharing. For exmple, when they were fighting over a toy, I would come and sit next to them and put the toy in my hand. I’d ask who had it first and listened to what they say. Then, I’d give them some options to choose from. If the issue isn’t resolved by them, there were times I took the toy until they are ready to make a decision. Another time, when I saw two children screaming at each other, I’d say something like “I see Erik and Amy yelling very loud. Let’s see if I can help” as I walk over to them. Most of the time, redirecting them towards a different activty or route resolved the issue.

[Noung]

When I am stressed, I often remind myself to not take it personal, because kids are kids. Once I leave work or on my break, it is my time to myself and destress. Having this balance of work vs personal time has helped me tremendously because I used to do things for the kids while on my lunch/break. Having the little me time gave me peace. If I choose to prep outside of work, I usualy don’t mind since I like getting a bit crafty.

[Noung]

Initiating would be a good place to start such as introducing yourself or asking what the children is doing so you can get involved. It’s works really well when you interact, listen, and do things with the children instead of always telling them what they are not supposed to do or basically standing there to supervise.

[Noung]

For the most part, I found guidance policies most useful in the events of accidents, drills, and emergencies. It doesn’t happen often, but sometimes I would like it if there are policies when it comes to resolving conflicts/misunderstaning with a coworker, when class is out of ratio but no teacher is available, or when communicating to a parent who regularly causes issues from nothing.

[Noung]

The infant should sleep in his/her own designated approved sleep equipment. It can be a single level crib, infant bed, bassinet, or playpen. The mattress should be firm and touch all sides of the crib/bed to prevent infant from being trapped between it.

[Noung]

Recently I had the chance to work with one year olds. Music has been great to get them active since we can do lots of body movements. When they’re outside, they often stay at the gate to watch the older kids. I redirect them towards the slide or other play structure available. Often times, I run together with the kids or catch bubbles together which is fun for them.

[Noung]

Healthy habits can be fun when you add music or small gestures/dance to it. Often times, I found that kids enjoy it more if I do it together with them and they copy whatever I am doing.

[Noung]

I think I’d highlight the general safety procedures we have in place at the childcare. Inform parent’s of our emergency plans, how food is handled, bed set-up, and cleaning/sanitization regulations. Overall, I want to show them clean, organized, and safe environment.

[Noung]

I would consult my coteacher and supervisor to see if there is a potential problem before filing a report with CPS.

[Noung]

Hand washing can be fun by using effective and interesting items such as colorful soaps or make it an activity for them to learn proper handwashing with glitter or flourescent lights.

[Noung]

My biggest worry is that I can’t keep my eyes on them all the time. Sometimes children get injured when I turn around for a few seconds and I didn’t see what happened. Sometimes I am concerned with their safety when I know there is a child with behavior issues present who is prone to violent outburst but what I can do is limited. I don’t want to injure or put my self in harms way but at the same time, have to protect all my children as well the child with behavior issues.

[Noung]

My advice would probably be to consistently acknowledge and greet family and children once you see them. It will help make them feel welcomed. They can also see, even if very brief, how their children interact with you as the provider. I think that can slowly build trust over time. If time permits, small talk about their child help maintain partnership as well.

[Noung]

Three things I want from my child’s provider is 1) acknowledge and pay attention to my child, 2) give them time and support to learn, and 3) provide a safe and healthy environment. Three of my fears is 1) teachers who don’t pay attention, 2) a child with behavior issues who constantly put the class in a hostile environment, and 3) inappropriate behavior from the teachers or staff.