[maria]

I have found narrating and labeling the child’s emotions is best in regulating and centering the child. After the child knows why they are emotional then they can work through their reactions to that emotion in a safe space.

[maria]

I step back and reflect on the “bigger picture”. Usually the bigger picture of things and where we land shows that compassion can go a long way with everyone. All of us endure stress, but not everyone can handle the stress we care dealt. Some people could use a stronger support or an additional support to carry the load until the stress is over.

[maria]

I always want my students to feel that the classroom environment is a safe place and they are supported and loved. I do this by connecting with them and caring for them daily.

[maria]

Funny, I take warm showers and then relax in my clean bed watching TV. I live at home with my six children so there is usually something else happening that can get my mind off work. But my me time is having full reign over the remote control.

[maria]

My first connection I make with students is I look at their backpacks and clothing. Usually that will tell me their likes and I try to ask my kids about the cartoons for references. Reading a book is also a powerful connection to make with the children.

[maria]

• I think the written policies would be useful for emergencies, injuries, behavior reports, illness.

[maria]

Firm mattress and a fitted sheet would be just fine.

[maria]

We have yoga pose cards for kids, and we have a movement area inside the classroom. When our class is getting too wiggly then we have a wiggle break and we do movement songs or dance party. Outside the classroom we have obstacle course and large playground equipment that encourages climbing and monkey bars.

[maria]

At our school we have our teachers sit and eat with the children. This helps boost conversation and behavior. We also compare our healthy eating habits by seeing each other’s similarities and naming the colors in our lunches.

[maria]

After welcoming a potential family into our classroom I would give a brief tour of the environment. There are potential hazards everywhere, for example scissors and pencils, but I would assure the families that we give extensive lessons on all work before placing it our on the shelves. I would point out our ratios are low and we as a community are responsible for each other by giving reminders when necessary

[maria]

If I suspect child abuse at home I would definitely contact my director and ask for them to immediately come in and observe. I would have the list of symptoms ready to give just in case and I would write a report of what I have notice and the reasons why I am suspicious. We will develop a plan to keep everyone safe before moving forward.

[maria]

My biggest worry is that I can’t predict what will happen next. For example, I have a young class and for most they are new to the school setting. I teach daily not to run in the classroom, use chairs properly, eccetera. But my students constantly need reminders to do this. They have gotten hurt but noting serious and I have to send home an ice pack and a note.

[maria]

What is your advice for creating and maintaining a good partnership between parents and childcare providers?

I have built good relationships by simply asking about their day, and sharing my personal life with connection to them. For example we shared funny stories about we had planned to do on our snow days and funny stories about their child. We welcome everyone on campus and I try to learn everyone’s first name so I can greet them correctly.

[maria]

If you were the parent of a young child, what do you think are the 3 most important things that you want from your child’s provider?

I require my child’s provider to keep my child safe, communicate with me about everything. I would like to know about cute funny stories and concerns. And I would require honesty/trust/ openness with the provider.

[maria]

Create the material that they are interested in. For example if the child comes to school with a dinosaur shirt everyday plus has a dinosaur backpack then maybe have some dinosaur books and materials in the classroom. That way the child is interested an can be learning about land forms and the earth and universe and even weather. If the conversation moves toward meteors the you can include some space facts and talk about how chaotic outer space really is.