Philosophy of Childcare
I love caring for children. Small children are full of life, boundless in their energy and in their desire to learn, endearing in their innocence. They challenge me, they make me think, and most of all, they make me laugh. I take great satisfaction in being part of the village that raises a child. I am an unapologetic optimist.
I believe that:
Each interaction with a child is an opportunity. A conflict is an opportunity to teach negotiation and listening. An injury to another child is an opportunity to practice empathy. Mealtimes are an opportunity for conversation and manners. Strengths are to be built upon; weaknesses are to be learned from, and grown beyond.
Children live up - or down - to our expectations of them Therefore I keep my expectations high. Not so high that child is frustrated and retreats into sullenness or despair; but just high enough that the child can take genuine pleasure in his/her achievements.
Every person, regardless of age, deserves to be treated with respect. As I treat the children respectfully, I also expect respect from them. Each of us has unique strength and particular needs. Each child will have something to offer the group in my home. Each of us has something to gain from the company of others.
Young children thrive in a stable, predictable environment. So, while I strive to remain flexible to each one’s varying needs each day, our days will follow a consistent pattern. The particulars may change, but the pattern remains reliable.
I am part of the team that works to see this child develop happily and fully. I view myself as an experienced, expert resource to the parents, but I am not the child’s primary caregiver. Whenever possible, parent and child need time together to be building that relationship. The parents are their child’s most important relationship.
Raising a child is probably the single most challenging enterprise most adults ever take on. At times it can be joyful and exhilarating; at times it can be positively unnerving! At all times it is incredibly significant, valuable, and worth while. Bon voyage!
I am a fellow childcare provider and understand everything you are saying! It is so nice for some honesty without the BS. Thanks!
I am also a childcare provider and a mother of two. I share your philosophy but with less experience sometimes I find certain situation complicated and find that I can be at a loss as to what to do with either a parent or child. Would it be possible for me to ask you your feeback?
thank you and I always look forward to reading your blog
I’m writing to let you know about a new web resource/destination for parents that we launched via virtual press conference last month. It’s called “A Parent’s Guide to the Teen Brain” and it’s brand new and live at http://www.drugfree.org/teenbrain/
For every parent or caregiver of a teenager who has ever wondered “who is this kid?” this new web destination for parents and caregivers, aims to make answering the question a little bit easier. Designed to help parents navigate the confusing, often frustrating teen years, “A Parent’s Guide to the Teen Brain” translates recent scientific findings that shed light on how brain development shapes teens’ behavior and personalities into easy-to-understand tips and tools for parents. Please read the press release announcing the launch of the Teen Brain Web site here http://www.drugfree.org/Portal/About/NewsReleases/Who_is_This_Kid
“A Parent’s Guide to the Teen Brain” was created in collaboration with the Treatment Research Institute in Philadelphia, top scientists and researchers on substance abuse and addiction and Boston-based WGBH, leaders in public broadcasting and educational multimedia.
The site explains how the human brain takes 25 years to fully develop, with the prefrontal cortex – responsible for complex judgment and decision-making – maturing last. Through video, humorous interactive segments, role-playing and advice from experts, parents learn how adolescent brain development explains the “normal” teen behaviors that often confound parents –impulsiveness, rebellion, high emotions and risk-taking – and how to use this new information to connect with their teens.
I would welcome the opportunity to discuss this with you if you think it might be of interest. I look forward to hearing from you.
Regards,
Paul A. Costiglio
Deputy Director of Public Affairs
The Partnership for a Drug-Free America
405 Lexington Avenue, 16th Floor, New York, NY 10174
Tel: (212) 973-3530/Fax: (212) 922-1570
http://www.drugfree.org