I try to do snack and lunch prep either the night before, or while they're doing free play in the mornings. I clean up once everyone is down for nap, and then I have at least an hour to myself - aaah! lol We do Ontario Early Years program twice weekly, and this really gives us all a nice break. It is a contained area where I can chat with mothers and other daycare providers, and the kids get a change of toys, scenery and other kids. I think I am pretty laid back by nature, and that helps a lot. I don't sweat the small stuff, as they say, and I try and lay out to parents very specific details, so they know what's expected of them as well. I have finally found my voice with the parents too, and I know in the back of my head now that everyone is replaceable, as cold as that sounds, but this is my job as well as my HOME, and I have to be happy too. cont'd...
Hi Amber, I have four children total. Two are part timers, and one doesn't come on Fridays, so I only ever have three on any given day. To be honest, I don't think I could handle any more than that. The ages I have are 16 months, 19 months, and two 27 month olds. I guess the way I handle it is routine. The kids all know what's coming next, so tantrums and not cooperating is kept at a minimum. We have free play, circle time/learning time, snack, outdoor time (or play group), lunch, nap, outdoor play (or craft) and free play in that order, every day. cont'd....
Hey Alphaghetti! I appreciated the advice you left on a post of mine, and some other responses you've given in this forum. Do you mind if I pick your brain? I see we're in the same part of Ontario, so maybe you've run into the same probs I have at some point. I'm a newbie, and I've still got lots to learn about this whole process! I was chatting with another worker, and she thought I had spread myself too thin in the age group I've taken in. My kids range from 21 months to 6 years old- most are 2 or 4. I've also only got part time kids, so every day is a different mix. I love the idea of taking in younger kids so I actually get a break of some kind, but having so many under 3 makes me nervous. How do you do it? Also, do you find having that many children every day is less stressful in the end because of the consistancy factor? I know we're all crazy busy, so any chance you get to give your two cents would be appreciated! Thanks again, Amber
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