"WHEN YOUR CHILD COMES HOME MESSY"
Red paint in the hair? Blue paint on the jeans?
Sand in the shoes? Peanut butter on the favorite shirt?
White socks that look brown? Sleeves a little bit damp?
YOUR CHILD probably...
worked with a friend,
solved a problem,
created a masterpiece,
negotiated a difference,
learned a new skill,
had a great time,
developed new language skills.
YOUR CHILD probably didn't...
feel lonely,
become bored,
do repetitive tasks that are too babyish,
do worksheet tasks that are too easy,
do sit down work that is discouraging.
YOU probably...
Paid good money for those clothes;
Will have trouble getting the red paint out;
Are concerned that the caregiver isn't paying enough attention to your child.
THE CAREGIVER probably...
Was aware of your child's needs and interests;
Spent time planning a challenging activity for the children;
Encouraged the children to try new things;
Put smocks on the children;
Was worried that you might be concerned.
Try to remember your favorite activity when you were four years old.
Was it outdoor play with water, mud, dress up clothes with friends?
Young children really learn when they are actively involved in play,
not when someone is talking to them.
There is a difference between "messy" and "lack of care."
The caregiver made sure your child was fed, warm, took a nap,
washed hands after toileting and before eating,
and also planned messy fun things to do because that's how young children learn!
Send your child in clothes that can get dirty!
Keep extra old clothes at the play site for times when the child gets wet or really messy.
If you need to take the child out, bring the dress up clothes and allow time to change.
Keep calm.
Remember in a few years, teenagers will use your shampoo, mirrors, and
most of your towels to be clean.
But young children need time to be kids.
If you have concerns, talke to your child's caregiver about active play.
- Susan Ruans, M.A.
CODE OF PROFESSIONALISM
Provides a safe and healthy environment for children.
Responds to the need to offer age appropriate activities based on a knowledge of child development.
Offers nutritious meals and snacks in a positive, relaxed social atmosphere.
Flexible and willing to work with a variety of parents, children, and peers.
Earnestly seeks growth through participation in workshops, seminars, conferences, and professional organizations.
Shares information with parents by maintaining records, developing policies, procedures, and through regular communications.
Strives to provide quality care and secure environment for all children.
Interested in the child's feelings and goals.
Outstanding participation in community based projects.
Nurturing and loving environment.
Adheres to current state and local family child care regulations.
Learning and play encouraged by indoor and outdoor atmosphere.
- Author unknown