- Image by Lower Columbia College via Flickr
Being in a childcare position is not always the easiest job. Of course, the duties of a “childcare position” ranges: from a Friday night movie while the little ones sleep to full on interaction every second of every day, a childcare provider can fill many roles. One thing to keep in mind, however, is that on either end of the spectrum a childcare provider is just that – someone who is providing care for your child – safety, learning, interaction, fun, and another perspective. Entrusting someone with this kind of responsibility is a big deal for a parent or guardian, but trust me, it is a big deal for the childcare provider as well! There are a few important things that can be done to put everyone at ease, including the child.
1. Establishing Communication
Communication is the most important aspect of any relationship, and it should be well established between the parent/guardian and childcare provider from the very beginning. Create an open and positive line where information, feedback, and expectations can be shared.
2. Setting Expectations
Expectations should come from both sides of this relationship. The parent/guardian should have very clear, *reasonable* expectations for the childcare provider: meal times, t.v., bedtime, disciplinary actions, etc.
The childcare provider should also have very clear, *reasonable* expectations for the parent/guardian: punctuality, pay rate, duties, etc. These expectations must be established in the very beginning! The sooner both sides understand what is expected, the sooner everyone will feel comfortable and confident.
3. Defining roles
It is often that a childcare provider and parent/guardian are both present with the child, and it is very important to make it clear to the child who is in charge. The most successful situation for the child is when the childcare provider is in charge while they are there. There is already an established relationship between child and parent/guardian, so clearly defining the childcare provider as the one in charge will allow the opportunity for a relationship of respect and comfort to grow between child and childcare provider.
As a Nanny, I personally feel very comfortable initiating this process, but generally speaking it would be easier if the parent/guardian initiated a special time to establish a solid foundation of communication, expectations, and roles. This foundation will not only help the parent/guardian and childcare provider relationship, but it will ultimately create a better environment for the child.
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This is a great article. I am a local childcare coordinator with Cultural Care Au Pair. I am also a host mom. We have a host family handbook that we encourage families to use (I use one) and it helps set expectations and household rules, and really helps bridge the communication gap. Setting these things in motion at the beginning of your relationship with your childcare provider goes a long way toward helping you create a good relationship.
.-= tracy cota´s last blog ..Back to school childcare, back to school savings =-.