Childcare Facts from an Expert

It’s not every day you get to speak to a true expert in all things child and childcare related. Sarah has more than two decades experience working with children and today I ask her my burning questions!

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What’s something parents worry about that they don’t need to?

Parents worry that calling us is an inconvenience, but it’s not. We would rather you call if there is something you need to know or forgotto tell us at drop off. It’s true that our kaiako are very busy, but we are also available for a check in, especially when you have a concern. Sending an email or asking us to email you updates or photos is far harder for us than a quick phone call. If we don’t know, we can’t support you. At Eduplay, we want to know all the things, all the time.

What’s one thing you wish every parent knew before their baby starts childcare?

If I can suggest one thing, it would be to ensure your childis happy on the floor. That may sound odd, but even with our baby room ratio ofone teacher to three children, there are times when we cannot give undivided attentionto your child. If your child cannot be laid on the floor (in a comfortable andsafe spot) without instantly getting upset, they will really struggle in a childcarecentre. Teachers can’t stand with children on their hips all day, they need tobe able to feed, change nappies, support sleep routines, snuggle andplay.  If your child is always carried, jiggled in bouncers, or passedbetween parents, grandparents and older siblings, but never left to lie on thefloor and given the freedom of movement, you are setting a difficult task foryour infant to adjust to a childcare centre.

What have your 20 years in early childhood centres taught you about children that surprised you?

Children are far more capable than anyone gives them credit for. That doesn’t mean they need to grow up sooner than they should. Or that they shouldn’t be treated like precious wee people and supported with intention and care, but they know and do things that we just don’t give them enough credit for. Everything I know about dinosaurs I learnt from a 4 year old boy (who would be probably 22yrs old now).

What should parents really be looking for when they are touring centre?

All children want is safe connection, they need kaiako to be present, available and safe. When you are choosing a centre, look for one where the team are at the children’s level and where teachers are engaged. Centres can be busy and it can also be chaotic at times (especially when messy play, dress-ups and art are all happening at the same time) but are the children happy and engaged? Can you hear conversation and laughter? Can you see connection between the adults and the children in the space?

What do you enjoy most about Eduplay?

Eduplay has a shared goal. We ask ourselves, “What is best for this child and how will we achieve it?” When families come and tour, we talk about the feel a centre will give you, and because we recommend parents visit a few centres, they will find one that pulls them in. Our tamariki are happy and thriving because our team are appreciated, respected and valued for the life and skills they bring to the centre.

Check out the interveiw in The Westerly magazine

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