Childcare and early years... any good advice?

Question

im hopefully starting work as a nursery nurse but im scared i wont be as good as the other staf there if a toddler has a tantrum and other situations... i love kids and can see myself working with them for the rest of my life but im starting to have doubts... could anyone with under 5's or any teachers/nursery nurses give me some good tips with dealing with the tods?

thanx people!

Answer 1

It is very helpful to take an early childhood development class.  If you have not perhaps you could enroll in a night class at your community college or maybe even your employer would pay for it.  The toddler mind is so vastly different from other developmental stages and understanding how it works is essential to helping shape it.  Some people have expectations of kids this age that are way beyond their emotional and cognitivie means.  Once you understand their behaviors and perspectives not only will you be an outstanding nursery nurse but you will really enjoy this occupation.  Their world is so great and you will take a peice of their hopefulness and newness home with you each day.

Answer 2

we all feel like that when we start working with children and i had my own grown up kids when i started! you will be fine if you have the childrens best interests at heart. you only start to learn once you start working with them and you never stop learning! just be aware that not everyone out there are good childcare workers so dont be influenced by them ...do what you believe is righr in your heart and you will be fine. good luck x

Answer 3

BE CONSISTENT!   if you're inconsistent with punishments and rewards, kids pick up on that and will use it against you. (they're smarter than most give them credit for)

Answer 4

Your best bet is to let common sense be your guide.  Always be gentle, firm, honest, cool, calm and collected when dealing with any child no matter what their age.  Never forget a tender hug (if your allowed to) will help the pain go away from a boo-boo faster!   Kids will react to accidents as the adults around them...if you freak they will to!!