Watching everyone?

[carrielind]

Okay so I Definitley never said I left the kids alone or was doing housework whilst watching the children.. I have a large basement, it’s Very open so I can see everything.. anyways thank you Lee-Bee, this is what I was wondering. I try to make sure every child is happy and having a good time, sometimes when two kids are playing with blocks on one side and then two kids are reading books on the other side it seems they both have a problem at the same time! Maybe my initial question wasn’t worded properly, I am always watching them and have no problem with that of course that’s my job, but it seems that if I am helping with one something else will happen on the other side of the room. Anyways, I’m new to this so I am still getting used to it and trying to do the best that I can.

[Suzie_Homemaker]

.., but it seems that if I am helping with one something else will happen on the other side of the room. Anyways, I’m new to this so I am still getting used to it and trying to do the best that I can.

Shrink the space. Then there isn't ever a situation where one child is "on the other side of the room". Bring the group into closer proximity of each other and more importantly, you.

Mats are great for creating a visual perimeter to a space.

If your basement is set up so different functions happen in different areas, then you have to get the children used to playing as a group doing one activity. Only when you know for sure that a sub-group plays well together 100% of the time can you consider letting them do something different but be warned, that once you start allowing that for certain personalities, the group spreads out and you'll be back to the situation you are now in.

I also do all prep on my own time. Lunch is cooked in the evenings and in the fridge so it just needs warming up when the children have washed their hands and are in their seats. I often give them some colouring to do or some play-doh to keep them at the table while I'm dealing with lunches. Likewise snacks are also prepared before 7am opening time. Crafts are all prepped on my time too.

It sounds like your space is just too large to be able to monitor the whole group closely enough. In time, as they adjust to day care rules and as you know the personalities, you will be able to spread out again. But while this issue is arising, I'd certainly reduce the space and have them all playing in a smaller area, together as a group, where you are no more than arms length from anyone. You'll catch any issues much more quickly and be able to deal with them which all helps with the consistent message that what they are doing is not going to happen on your watch.