Living Childcare

The Guilt Game

noreply@blogger.com (Lisa Marie) — Mon, 26 Oct 2009 07:05:00 +0000

Whether you’re starting a new position or in a well established one. There comes a time in every Child Care professional’s career when they must play the dreaded guilt game. For those unfamiliar with the industry, guilt is a widely used form of coercion to ensure staff work outside of their work hours without payment and the industry’s dirty little secret for too long. So why...In an industry that already sees its professionals give so much… does it continue to ask for more.

Well it’s simple. Child care centre’s albeit community or private all require a lot of work to run effectively and even more to run at a profit. For private centres saving money is nothing short of expected and the more they can save the more profit they can make. For community centres this is no different, if they can save more money than that is more funds that can go back to their centre. In the end the cost of running a centre must come from somewhere and sadly for too long, this cost has fallen on the shoulders of its professionals. For the estimated 90,000 child care professionals within Australia this cost comes in the form of guilt. Guilt that sees child carers work up to 5 hrs a week or more in overtime without payment, that’s up to 2 weeks unpaid work a year.

Now before there’s any confusion lets clear up exactly what we mean by guilt. You see guilt is never the word they actually use, commitment, dedication or my personal favourite “for love of the job” are the more preferred names for you name it; free work. Unfortunately the term unpaid work as you would expect doesn’t go down as well as most directors or owners would like. So they in turn replace “unpaid” with you guessed it “commitment” and what kind of worker would one be if they weren’t committed to their job. Right! Wrong. This ever growing habit of renaming unpaid work as commitment has not only cost Australia’s child care industry its reputation but hundreds of its best workers along the way.

While those behind desks continue to develop the latest frameworks in education and others claim to be pioneering the way for greater quality care. The industry itself is slowly weeding out the dedicated, compassionate and inspiring professionals it needs; to exhaustion, financial ruin and mental illness like depression.

For others, the childcare industry often comes across as a passive and somewhat gullible sector. Yet little do they know that it’s actually the kindness and compassion of these people that allows them to be perceived as such. If like others they simply walked out one must question if the industry would otherwise be seen as cruel and selfish as opposed to weak. For when all else tells them otherwise these are the people that go against their better judgments due to guilt and ensure that children receive what they need. The same guilt that sees these professionals give up their time for children’s xmas parties, special events, graduations and working bees to better the quality of the children’s centre. Despite the fact that these workers know they should be paid they are all too often fall victim to this guilt and find it almost impossible to refuse. It is this aspect that is all too well known within the industry and all too often abused.

While many have no phobia when it comes to commitment, the fact that hundreds still doing this job after 2 years let alone a decade should be more than enough to prove their dedication, and yet time and time again their expected to prove their dedication to the job by working unpaid hours and should they refuse their commitment is questioned.

I ask you this. “How many people do you know that spend their Saturdays gardening, painting or spring cleaning their offices for free? How many people do you know that weigh up family occasion for Easter hats parades or graduation nights? And more importantly, how many people do you know that spend a percentage of their weekly wage on work supplies? It is this social stigma has seen the industry buried in ignorance where other industries have thrived. At the end of the day police officers aren’t expected to buy their own guns, doctors aren’t required to provide their own medicine and yet oddly child care workers are not privileged to this same expectation.

Over the years the term commitment has become the norm weighed down with a burgeoning sense of guilt that has seen an industry as a whole fail to meet its potential.
Perhaps the most disappointing of all is that while we as professionals have struggled to gain the respect and recognition we deserve. It is our own industry that has failed us. Why is it not acceptable for us all as professionals to simply do our job well and be paid for it like everyone else? Why is working a whole Saturday considered commitment in our industry and yet overtime in everyone else’s.

So next time you visit your child’s centre or attend a centre event; take note of the workers, take note of the time and how long they stay behind to chat about your child’s wonderful achievements or simply to make you feel a part of your child’s day. Then when you’re finished take a moment to say thanks. Thank them for giving up their time, their family, their moment to themselves, to be there for you and your child. To an industry of owners and directors your position does not escape you nor excuse you. You are graced with the presence of kind, generous and compassionate people that in no way should ever have to justify their commitment through unpaid work. Instead take a moment to justify your own expectations and why your need for unpaid work somehow excuses it.

At the end of the day, should you feel guilty by your lack of gratitude or unfounded answers? Take head in the response you give your workers. If you’re not committed then find another place to work?

VIP Chat - Freya Blackwood

noreply@blogger.com (Lisa Marie) — Sun, 04 Oct 2009 23:08:00 +0000

With her illustrations gracing award winning books such as "Amy & Louis", "Two Summers" and "No Room for a Mouse". Freya Blackwood's presence is been felt everywhere as her illustrations become a part of our childhoods forever. Living Childcare chatted to Freya about her new book "Ivy Loves to Give", what inspires her and what we can expect next from Freya Blackwood....

LC.You’ve had an amazing career so far, that has seen you work in areas of film like set design and production. Is it hard to stop and concentrate on illustrating?
F:I worked as an effects technician and prosthetic makeup technician when working in the film industry. It was something I enjoyed exploring when I was younger, before I’d discovered exactly what it was I wanted to do. I find illustrating very satisfying, so no, its not hard at all to stop and just illustrate!

LC. You’ve recently published your own children’s book titled “ Ivy Loves to Give” can you tell us a little about it and its inspiration?
F. IVY LOVES TO GIVE is about a little girl who loves to give things, but muddles her presents so that her family find odd things have gone missing. The book is based on my daughter Ivy, who used to offer her milk cup to anything. I did a series of drawings for Ivy’s grandmother and father, of Ivy offering her milk cup to a chicken and a pair of sunglasses to our very grumpy Himalayan cat called Daisy. The idea just developed from there.

LC. As an illustrator what was it like both writing and illustrating your own book?
F. I do like illustrating other people’s stories as there’s a greater challenge when you have to interpret someone else’s story. But I’m also looking forward to learning more about creating my own picture books. We’ll see...

LC. You’ve received numerous honors for your illustrations. Was this something you expected so early on in your career?
F. No, not at all! Especially my first book TWO SUMMERS – that was an enormous surprise. I then worried that I’d never do anything worth honoring again. I love AMY & LOUIS and at the time thought it was absolutely perfect. So I was very happy and proud of it when it won the CBCA award.

LC. Did you ever think it would be your love of illustrating that would create your path in life?
F.Several times throughout school and university I wanted to become an illustrator, but I don’t think I expected my work to go as far as it has. Some books have been translated into other languages, and the distance they are travelling is just mind-boggling.

LC. You’ve mentioned that illustrating is something that just kept coming back to you. Do you think this why your illustrations seem to be so captivating and special?
F. I personally find it hard to see exactly what it is that is captivating or special about my work, simply because its very close to me. I think most people who work in such a sheltered environment and so closely on a job probably lose sight of how others might see it. I can only guess that when you spend a great deal of time and effort developing characters and the world they live in and then labouring over every drawing you do of a character to make sure it feels right and shows the emotions you want the character to show, that all of that effort and thought comes across to the reader. Essentially, I guess I just do what I do and it’s luckily found an audience that really respects it.

LC. There’s a real beauty in your illustration’s simplicity yet it’s like you almost reach out and touch your characters on the nose. Did you always set out to draw that way?
As with the previous answer, I just work as I do. It’s not something I’ve specially planned. I often labour over drawings of characters to get them feeling just right and showing the emotions I want them to show. I do become attached to characters and find the moment when they get colour very exciting as they can nearly feel alive to me.

LC. What do you love to illustrate when you’re not working?
F. I don’t draw other than for work – that might seem a bit strange. I don’t really enjoy just sitting and sketching, though I do wish that I did, and might try to do more of this as I have more time. My drawing would improve and develop greatly.

LC. Growing up in Orange and spending time in New Zealand, where do you derive your inspiration from?
F. Most of my books have had more of an Australian feel, even though I was working in New Zealand. Having moved back to Australia, I’ve been very inspired by some of the old towns around Orange where I now live. I’m setting a current book in a town made up of elements of some of these small settlements.

LC. Is there any topic you’d love to illustrate but haven’t yet had the chance?
F. I’d love to try illustrating some traditional stories, like some of the Grimm's Brother’s tales, or Hans Christian Anderson stories.

LC. As a child what were some of your favourite childrens books?
F. Dorie the Witch, Where the Wild Things Are. Burglar Bill and Cops and Robbers, Marty Moves to the Country, Alice in Wonderland.

LC. What advice would you offer to others wanting to illustrate children’s books?
F. Drawing seems to be less of a necessity now in childrens illustration, but I think if you can teach yourself to draw well, or learn to draw well you will have a definite advantage. Getting work when you start is often as much good luck as it is skill or talent. Its a hard industry to break into, so it makes sense if your work is unique or distinctive and if you are willing to practice drawing and illustrating on small jobs, or your own stories. The more practice you can do the better.

LC. What’s next for Freya Blackwood?
F. I’m just happy plodding at the moment. I work three days a week and spend the rest of the week with my daughter. It’s a nice balance like this. I’ve got some books lined up written by various authors – I’m very excited about all of them.

LC. You’ve mentioned you have a 3 year old daughter named Ivy. Working with children our readers know what its like to get requests for drawings, do you get it twice as much? And does it ever get boring?
F. Ivy actually isn’t remotely interested in drawing or in my drawings, or in me doing drawings for her. So, I might have to get back to you in that one when she becomes interested.

LC. There is a lot of creativity within your family. Do you feel it’s essential that children have the opportunity and access to draw?
F. We did a lot of drawing when we were young. It wasn’t something that was forced on us, but something that was encouraged. My mother let us try many different artistic mediums while we were children and teenagers. I think children should be encouraged to investigate and explore not just drawing but as many varied pursuits as possible. And then they should be encouraged to continue and develop the things they enjoy.

LC. So many children spend high levels of their time on computers, how do you think we can bring children back to good old pencils and paper?
F. Being a child is all about having fun and learning by having fun. I guess parents need to integrate drawing and writing into every day life and in a way that makes it enjoyable. And perhaps rather than allowing a lot of time in front of television or playing on a computer, parents could actively encourage craft activities or story writing. Children learn from their parents – if they see their parents writing and drawing (as opposed to sitting on a computer or watching television) they’re sure to want to join in!

You can check out Freya's work at her website www.freyablackwood.net

Editors Letter

noreply@blogger.com (Lisa Marie) — Sun, 27 Sep 2009 09:43:00 +0000

Well its hard to believe it's nearly October, and just three short months till Xmas. Once again we will begin our favorite job of Xmas gifts for parents and hear the joyous bells of....Overtime. lol
Now before we get to carried away i wanted to apologise for Living Childcare's forum being offline. Its seems the Australia's government isn't the only ones that fail to respect our profession, so too its seems are hackers. The forum however is back online and a little revamped...cos we all love a little revamp and i look forward to chatting to you all soon. Sadly all our members will have to re-register, luckily though its justa few short steps and you'll be back on track in no time.

Now thats out of the way.
There are a few great new articles coming to Living Childcare in the coming months to keep your eyes out for. We have an interview with Freya Blackwood, illustrator of amazing children's books such as the infamous Amy & LOUIS....Brendan Walton returns with a chat about his career and we look at topics such as The Guilt game we all seem to play, The new Early Years Learning Framework and the coolest new things to put on your Xmas wish lists.

I hope everyone has a great month and remembers to take some time themselves,
Kind Regards
Lisa Marie

Career- Carer Spotlight on Brendan Walton

noreply@blogger.com (Lisa Marie) — Sun, 27 Sep 2009 09:31:00 +0000

Since Brendan's article in our Men in Childcare special we have received numerous positive feedback and emails congratulating us on posting the article and bringing the issue of Men in Childcare into focus. We decided to to interview Brendan for our Carer Spotlight to find out a little more....

Professional Childcare worker

Age: 25

Workplace: I work at Jacaranda Grove Pre School, Warners Bay NSW.
We cater for 2 to 5 year olds.

Qualifications:
After completing my HSC, I was lucky enough to receive a position in the highly sort after Community Services/ Children’s Services course at TAFE and in 2003 I received my Diploma.

How long have you been in the industry?
I’ve been working in childcare since half way through my TAFE course, so just a little over 6 years.

What first got you interested in becoming part of the industry?
I was the oldest of many children in my extended family and enjoyed the satisfaction of caring for them; helping them and watching them succeed. I have a family member with additional needs who always looked up to me and I especially enjoy my time that I spend with him. Many people suggested I look into a career choice with children and so I did.

What are essential skills to have for this profession?
I think that to work with children you have to have a natural rapport with them. You have to want to spend time with them and be willing to involve yourself in what they like to do, what they like to discuss and play. You need to be patient. You need to have some understanding of their limits and abilities. You must be affectionate, willing to get dirty, dance to Hi-5 and be silly at times.

What are the hardest/ greatest aspects of your job?
The hardest aspect would be the thoughts in the back of your mind that you could get yourself in a position that you may be accused of misconduct towards the children. There are ways to make sure you are always safe at work, such as not leaving yourself alone with the children and keeping other staff informed of what you’re doing during the day. But that is just a little bother of mine and a worry of a lot of other workers I know of.
The greatest part of the job is watching the children you care for learning and growing from a 2 year old in nappies to a 5 year old, very ready for school. Knowing that you have had a positive influence on their lives is a wondrous thing.

What advice would you give others wanting to take up this career?
If you have those essential skills and really want to work with children, go for it! There can never be too many positive influences in a child’s life. Because I studied first before working in a service, I’d suggest taking part in a training course. It gives you a further understanding of children and how best to assist each and every one of them in their development.
‘Hands-on’ work during the training is beneficial. Our TAFE service had a playgroup on the premises to give the students practice in a childcare setting whilst studying. Especially as a young person, reading philosophies and child studies from text books and then being dumped straight into a service would be a tough transition. Both study and time with children together would be the best mix.

What’s the best job you’ve had?
Not because I feel I have to say it, but the current job I have now is the greatest I’ve had in my time working in the industry. I have been working for the owner for quite some time now. To feel that I have become part of the team there is a wonderful feeling. I have built relationships with entire families as all their children pass through the service. We have built a respectable reputation and our centre is overloaded with people wanting spots for their children with us.

VIP Chat- Libby Gleeson

noreply@blogger.com (Lisa Marie) — Sun, 26 Jul 2009 05:02:00 +0000

It is with great pleasure that Living Childcare brings you this interview with renowned children's author Libby Gleeson.

Libby, thank you so much for taking the time to chat to us at Living Childcare. As huge fans, it has been an absolute privilege to speak to you and with "Amy and Louis" being one of our all time favourite books, we indeed feel a little spoilt.

1.Growing up with 6 siblings do you find any of their traits found their way into your stories?
I think a combination of their traits and those of my three children - sibling rivalry/tension as well as admiration high on the list!

2.Is there anything you’d love to write about but haven’t had the time too yet?
Nothing I can think of.

3.Where did the idea for Amy and Louis come from?
A note in a notebook where my kids told me of a friend at childcare (20 years ago) who'd lost his best friend and was now forever standing in the yard calling out to him, hoping he'd hear.

4.Amy and Louis is an amazing and highly acclaimed story. Did you ever expect that a story about two little friends would go on to enchant thousands of people?
I didn't at the time but I am so glad it did.

5.Amy and Louis is a wonderful and inspiring favourite of the Living Childcare team. Were you aware that you were writing something truly special at the time?
I don't think so but I did know that the pain of loss was deeply felt - indeed by all of us. I think we often underestimate to power of children's emotions.

6.Freya Blackwood’s illustrations seem to encompass your every word. Was her illustrations part of your vision for Amy and Louis?
I had no idea how she would illustrate - I just felt her gentle style was what was needed.

7.Do you have a favourite place where you like to write?
Upstairs in my office/study, where I am now.

8.Both “Amy and Louis” and “Cuddle Time” seem to capture this innocence and sensitivity about them. Is that something that is conscious as you write or a lovely surprise at the end?
A bit of both. It's what you aim for in simplicity of writing and truth of emotion but the extent of success is always an unknown until readers get hold of it.

9.What can we expect next from Libby Gleeson?
Another picture book, due in October. It's called Clancy and Millie and the Very Fine House. Illustrated by Freya Blackwood it tells of the distress of a small child when the family moves to a new big house. It's what he does about it that's important.

10.Do you believe that the magic of children’s stories has become overshadowed by technology and commercial toys. Or is it stronger than ever?
I think the magic of story for little kids has persisted. Nothing beats it.

11.There is a belief within Early Childhood industries that “fairytales” of the past can no longer offer children what they need. Do you feel fairytales have been a little hard done by?
Yes. They still speak to kids.

12.What was your favourite fairytale growing up?
I can't remember my favourite - The Princess and the Pea I think or maybe The Tin Soldier. I know I was terrified by The Snow Queen!

13.As a society do you feel we tend to over think things, can a story …just be a story?
Yes it can be just a story but I also think that much can lie beyond it and I would never stop others from interpreting how they choose. Each reader brings different knowledge and experience to any story and therefore takes different things away..

14.Can you names some stories or writers that impacted on you as a child or adult, either old or new?
Little Golden Books - Especially The Taxi That Hurried and The Poky Little Puppy. After that it was The Faraway Tree and then Anne of Green Gables and the Billabong Books of Mary Grant Bruce.

15.What have been some of the best responses to your stories?
Before Amy and Louis came out, I was In Zurich. I showed the mss and rough drawings to a year 1 class of English Speaking kids from all over the world. A little boy on the floor, who turned out to be Danish spoke of how hard it was to say goodbye to friends and in that International school, they said goodbye all the time. Recently a mother told me her son's best friend had moved and so they went out into the yard and yelled 'Cooee!'

16.What was it like collaborating with an illustrator such as Julie Vivas for Cuddle time?
I don't collaborate closely - that's her job and I don't interfere.

17.Is there any illustrators that you would love to work with in the future?
No. Not that I know of.

18.What is it about writing for children that inspires you most?
I believe story is fundamental to us working out who we are and what we believe. I believe it's the best thing to surround kids with language and images that can get them thinking and feeling.

19.As Child Care professional’s wanting to write books themselves what advice can you offer them?
Read read read and then try to write. If you're driven to do it, you will. Go to workshops with other writers and listen to criticism.

You can also learn more about Libby at her website www.libbygleeson.com.au

And for those who haven't read "Amy and Louis" your truly missing out on a wonderful and touching story that everyone will love. "Amy and Louis" as well as many of Libby Gleeson's other titles can be found at all good book stores. So what are you waiting for.

Career- Carer Spotlight on Susan

noreply@blogger.com (Lisa Marie) — Sun, 26 Jul 2009 04:50:00 +0000

Professional Nanny
Name: Susan Pearson.
Age: I’m 38 years old.

Workplace: I have just finished working with a wonderful family, caring for twin boys. I cared for the boys from young babies. They are now heading off to preschool. I always work as a sole charge – live out nanny.

Qualifications: In the early days when I discovered my interest in working as a nanny, there wasn’t a wide range of courses/training you could do! I was, and am, based in Adelaide, so I found private childcare courses and also did some fantastic training with “National Nannies”

How long have you been in the nanny industry?
I’ve been in the nanny industry for 14 years (starting in Sydney) before that I was in childcare/preschool for 2 years.

What are essential nanny skills?
I think an essential skill to becoming a nanny is to have a natural rapport with children - a genuine love of the little people. It’s no good getting into the industry if you don’t enjoy being around children. You need to be a very caring, patient and loving person. A successful professional nanny will be committed, have excellent communication skills, maturity, and a great work ethic.

What are the hardest/ greatest aspects of your job?
The hardest aspect of being a nanny is leaving the family after many years. It’s often quite an emotional time for nannies and families as you form such a wonderful bond with the children and parents – and end up becoming so much more than just the *nanny*. It’s great if you can keep up communication or occasional contact with past nanny families. It’s truly rewarding to watch children grow up - many years after you have left the family.

With the long hours some nannies work and just interacting with young children all day, you can often feel isolated. I think it’s just so important to try and have a circle of nanny friends / colleagues. Whether it’s through playgroups, play dates, nannies you meet in the park or on line forums/support groups, it’s vital to stay connected to other nannies. No one really understands the ins and outs of nannying quite like other nannies!

My best days as a nanny are when I have got the children bathed, ready for bed and they are just so happy and content. The parents walk in the door and they are so genuinely pleased to see their little children smiling, and know they have been cared for so well during the day. It’s a wonderful feeling to hear children excitedly tell their parents about something special you all did together during the day.

Also when children reach certain milestones, whether it’s a child with special needs conquering a difficult task, a baby’s first step, or a certain word they have finally been able to say, these are definitely the most rewarding times in my career.

What advice would you give others wanting to be a nanny?
The advice I would give others wanting to be a nanny would be to take the time to study. (Even if it’s just a short course) It’s excellent to have some background training/skills before you start with your first family. Most importantly work out what sort of family would suit you best. Whether you go through an agency or advertise yourself, I think it’s really important matching up with a family that feels right for you.

Don’t undervalue yourself! Make sure you and your family set boundaries re your duties/expectations as a nanny. Keep the communication up and make sure you are being adequately and fairly paid for what you do. If you connect and feel respected by the family on almost every level, then you as a nanny will be keen to give 100%. When the balance is right – it’s an amazing experience for the nanny, children and parents.

What’s the best job you’ve had?
I have had some excellent positions over the years. The best families to work for were the ones who totally respected me as their children’s’ nanny and contributor to their family. They always kept the lines of communication open. They would thank me at the end of each day and notice all the little things I’d do to make the children happier and make the household run a little smoother. The line between friend and employer was kept balanced.

Describe one of your best days as a nanny?
My fondest memories are working for my first (long term) family in Sydney. I’d come from Adelaide, disheartened with my positions in centres and wanting desperately to venture into nannying. Unfortunately, in Adelaide (back then) families who needed nannies were far and few between. I found a family in the eastern suburbs of Sydney quite quickly. To my amazement most families on their street had nannies too. Caring for one of the children from birth until they were 4 years old was such a wonderful experience. The location was fantastic. I spent many a sunny day at the beach (a stone’s throw away from the house) with the children. The parents were so relaxed and the connection I had with the children was just so beautiful. It was a great introduction into the world of nannying and absolutely cemented (what I suspected already) that this was definitely my path in life.

What do you think the industry needs to do to gain higher recognition? I think the industry is very slowly gaining higher recognition. More and more parents are finding out and realising quality care with a professional nanny in their home is a great way to go. This is helped by the surge of subsidised in-home care and the government rebate. It’s opened the door to a lot of families who otherwise could just not afford it.

But there still needs to be award rates of pay, paid superannuation ( for nannies working under 30 hours a week) more nanny specific accredited courses/education and training and strict guidelines for agencies (which is slowly happening in most states now). For such a booming industry, there are still too many guessing games/loopholes re nannies pay, tax and benefits. It makes it very confusing for families and nannies. There really needs to be strict policies in place. I think every nanny would welcome a better system. There have been dramatic changes for the better in the industry since I started 14 years ago. I’m only hoping in the next few years it will jump in leaps and bounds so it’s widely regarded as a professional career choice.

Living Childcare would like to say a huge thank you to Susan Pearson for being apart of Carer Spotlight.

News Room

noreply@blogger.com (Lisa Marie) — Sat, 04 Jul 2009 08:41:00 +0000

Child care costs set to increase
AAP July 4, 2009, 5:49 am

The cost of child care is expected to increase if recommendations being considered by the federal government are adopted.

The government is considering proposals to ensure all child care staff are TAFE- or university-qualified and that more staff should be employed to increase staff-to-child ratios at centres.

A panel of 11 child-care professionals and development experts has told the government the ratio of staff to children must increase to provide children with the best start before school, Fairfax newspapers say.

The panel says the resulting higher cost of child care would be outweighed by better development of youngsters.

Federal child care minister Kate Ellis said new guidelines for childcare centres would better prepare children for school.

The government's strategy for children aged up to eight weeks was the first step towards a national child care system, she said.

"Importantly the framework has a strong emphasis on play-based learning, in recognition that play is the best vehicle to help young children learn," Ms Ellis said.

Ms Ellis is privately considering the panel's recommendations that staff-to-children ratios be boosted to at least 1:3 (one staff member for every three children) for children under two years, 1:5 for two- to three-year-olds and 1:10 for those aged up to five.

Inspired- Steve Biddulph

noreply@blogger.com (Lisa Marie) — Sun, 28 Jun 2009 06:51:00 +0000

After reading "Raising Babies- Should under 3's go to nursery? Living Childcare was inspired to hear more from its Author Steve Biddulph. The worlds best known and respected Australian psychologist for children and families.

Steve, thank you so much for talking to Living Childcare. We really appreciate the time you have taken to chat knowing you are so busy travelling and speaking to others across the world.

As editor, I've read your book and can only congratulate you on this powerful and insightful book. Its clear, focused and matter of fact writing allowed me to stand back and let what needed to be said be said. So lets talk about your insightful and truly honest book "Raising Babies".

1. You mentioned you were afraid to write the book at first. Do you have any regrets?

No I have no regrets about writing "Raising Babies - should under three's go to nursery?" Except perhaps that sometimes people hear about it and don't read it, and distort its message into a more extreme one. There is a lot of guilt and tension about how we raise babies and because love is not so valued in our culture, its quite a confronting message. But few people once they read it disagree. Most people in the field have said to me "This book is long overdue. It says what we have always thought.".

2. What has the Australian response to the book been?

The book was published only in England, and made its way to Australia only by accident.
Its actually not written for Australia (hence the use of the name nursery, not childcare centre). There is much more concern in the UK about childcare, and we were aware that the UK government were looking at introducing parental leave, but did not want to do so. They prefer everyone to be in the workforce paying taxes. Many other child development researchers including Penny Leach, Professor Melluish, and others mentioned in the book were also involved in the parental leave campaign. My releasing the book, and all the coverage it received, helped to educate the government that many parents felt forced to use childcare, but would rather stay home if they could afford to.

3. In your introduction you mentioned your need to publish “Raising Babies” became overwhelming. Do you feel sense of pride or relief to have had the chance to say what needed to be said?

The side effect of the book coming to Australia probably helped with the same issue here, certainly you hear the book quoted by policy makers here as a reason to reduce the need for childcare in the first year of life. We finally have some parental leave, but still fairly pathetic compared to more advanced countries.

4. Where you shocked to hear what other staff had to say about the industry?

When the book came out in England, we opened a web page for comments, and most of those were from professionals working in childcare - directors and experienced workers - saying that the book was right and accurate, and adding much comment about the deficiencies of nursery care. Also there is a lot of concern from professionals at the way some parents use childcare for such long hours for very young babies. We actually reproduced many of these comments in the current edition of the book.

5. In a world where nothing goes unscathed it seems when talking about childcare there is this real sense of taboo. Do you think this avoidance has played a part in its inability to improve?

Childcare is a delicate, even taboo subject, because it was part of an important worldwide movement to liberate women from narrow and proscribed lives. I was part of the feminist effort and revolution and did not want to set this back in any way. But it was time for a more nuanced discussion - in essence - "what about the babies?" This involved getting fathers to play their role, and also realizing that we can only take personal freedoms so far, we all impact on others. Balancing mother,father, baby, sibling,s relatives, and society's needs, is possible, and many people manage this. Accurate information is important, so is permission to listen to and follow one's own heart. As a psychologist, I think people often do not listen to their heart enough, and sometimes are distracted or diverted for many decades by goals - material or social pressure - that take away from the importance of love and human connection. We are a greed and speed society, and this has catastrophic dangers for the planet and for our own inner world.

6. 2010 aims to bring down ratios for under 2s to 1: 4 across numerous states in Australia. Do you feel this is a well needed step or merely a band aid for a strained industry?

Yes, improved ratios are great. Improved funding, staff training, conditions, everything we can do to help. We know from Sweden and Norway that you can have good quality care, and what it costs. It costs about 2.5% of GDP - which is what those countries spend. That is four times higher than what we spend in Australia. And Swedish parents still do not use it for babies - this generation does not like childcare for the under one's, and since they have parental leave, they don't use it. There are only a few hundred babies in daycare in the whole of Sweden. (for reference sources, please see Raising Babies). Professor Melluish, the leading researcher in the UK, points out that its much cheaper to pay parents than to fund professionals at this level.

7. So much debate has been waged regarding the need for qualified staff. And while most agree. Do you believe there isn’t always enough emphasis on those who have the personal qualities needed to work in the industry?

Yes, I am ambivalent about the emphasis on trained staff. All the research says that staff having university training improves outcomes. You have to respect that. But the studies tend to focus on cognitive outcomes. Emotional outcomes - secure and unstressed children with empathy and good people skills depends on the quality and stability of loving they receive - especially in the second six months of life when the orbitofrontal cortex is growing. I think that this is not something you can train, though training helps realize its importance. In the US people prefer and even specify Hispanic carers rather than Anglo, perceiving that Hispanic people are more loving and come from stronger and closer families. How do we help staff be more loving ? By careful selection, and by caring for our staff so they can relax.

8. Parents often fall into the trap of a well decorated and marketed centre. How can we better educate parents who do choose childcare to find quality care?

Well decorated and glossy centres do fool more materialistic young parents. More experienced parents look more for the quality of care and the human side of what is being offered. To be honest, I think that childcare should not be run on a business model. We had community childcare and it was more successful because staff gave more than they were paid to give. They were idealists who believed in caring for children. Nursing, doctors, teachers are also only successful if they give more than they are paid, if they are idealists as well. We don't run schools as a business, for profit, recognizing its too important. Childcare should also be a community agency, otherwise the inbuilt tendency to maximize profit is continually a tension.

9."Raising babies" mentions that a child is rootless and unanchored, due to lack of personal space, quiet corners and belongings on their own within nurseries. How can we as carers help children to become more settled?

I can't really make suggestions how to have more peace and happy quiet spaces for children in care.But to say that it is important. Sensory overload and the difficulties of aggression when many children are together are probably what cause the raised cortisol levels that are giving concern. To be frank, we need less children in the space. Staff soothe and reduce stress, but they need to be very bonded and available, and in a long term relationship so the child matters to them more than just a generic child. That level of bonding might even be threatening to parents.
A child carer doing their job may find the child loves them more than their parent. That is an insoluble dilemma I think. Whereas by age three, a child is able to maintain that love for several caring adults. The biggest question here is at what age is childcare a positive. How young is too
young. This varies with every child, but there are some good rules of thumb, which we give in the book. I would like to see childcare centres actively dissuade parents from using too much care too young.

10. While “Raising Babies” claims that childcare professionals are often worn out and somewhat detached it also states that a study commissioned by the Department of Education (1999) found the average amount of 1:1 attention per child was only 8 minutes per day. While clearly disheartening, how do we begin to tackle this concern of ratios and the well being of child care professionals?

Yes, there is a lot of thinking going on about how to care for childcare workers. They are giving emotionally, but supposed to just let children disappear out of their lives. They are supposed to share themselves around. We would never expect a mother or father to attend to five babies for example, they would receive government supported helpers for quads or quins ! Yet every staffer in the babies room has to do this.

11. The industry has come so far and still has so far to go. With changes like making childcare more about community such as GP’s, Early Childhood nurses, hearing and speech therapists and social workers on site. Do you think we can get it right in time?

I simply urge people to actually read Raising Babies - its in most libraries, and of course bookshops. Reading it will reassure that I am not opposed to childcare, I think its a civilized and important help to families. I am simply cautioning about how we have gone overboard and used it younger and younger for longer and longer. Also we have made cognitive gains (and these are still rather controversial as to durability or value) more important than Emotional Intelligence, which is what babies and toddlers are really most on about. Mental health is the most important gift of a secure babyhood. Put bluntly, we have really devalued parenthood and what it is and does. We think its just feeding and entertaining babies. When its actually so subtle, rich, creative, and important. The long term newer studies in several continents are very clear - too much childcare, too young, for too many years, is a multiple risk factor for creating aggressive and anxious kids. But some children are affected more than others, and some parents have needs that cannot be met any other way. So we have to be flexible.

Other writers have done a better job - Sue Gerhardt's book Why Love Matters is the best introduction to the brain science that backs up what our hearts have been telling us. Its a fine and very readable story about how loving interaction sets up a baby's brain for proper development. Deep down I think we know what's right, but seeing the evidence and research helps us to trust our judgment more.

Steve, thank you again for your time and we look forward to catching you somewhere on your travels in Australia and your next book!

Children and Male carers

noreply@blogger.com (Lisa Marie) — Tue, 16 Jun 2009 05:33:00 +0000

When I first set out to write about males in the childcare setting i found it impossible to get information. There was so much debate and very few amounts of quality research.

Through persistence and a lot of internet surfing I was luckily enough to get to know a few males workers within their centres and even the chance to see them in action. During this time I spent observing them with kids and really appreciating their presence around the children. It dawned on me...I know (I should have thought of it first). Just ask the children what they think of males in childcare. So i did and heres what they had to say.

Sitting myself down in a sunny spot in the playground I watched, I listened and I learned.

- "Can you tell me what you like about having a man (his name) teacher at your kindy?

- "Its good because they teach us stuff"

- "Man teachers aren't strangers there good people"

- "It's fun having them because they put different toys out"

- "Some have beards"

- "Their very strong and get things out of trees"

- "They can build super good"

-"They have kids too"

- "Their good at playing outside with us"

- "Their cool"

- "They help us ride bikes"

- "They hold my hand when I'm walking so i don't fall"

It makes you really question our values as carer's when we look at children's beliefs and often prejudices and wonder were they came from. How as adults we can take something so simple, innocent and interesting to children and twist it around to the point of removing it from their lives is beyond me. Its little wonder children have so much to teach us.

Making Men Matter in Childcare

noreply@blogger.com (Lisa Marie) — Tue, 16 Jun 2009 05:24:00 +0000

There has long been many debates about the integral part played by multiculturalism, role modeling and early intervention; to name a few. However it seems the the most vital yet missing part played by men in childcare has failed to garner the attention it deserves.

Now i don't hold a PHD but after 12 years in childcare i can stand here and tell you what i have seen. With this one has to wonder if as a a society we have become so preoccupied with providing children with their every waking need. That we have in fact done children a terrible disservice. A disservice that has let the issue of men in childcare become debatable. Its not.

Males are a part of life. There our father,uncles, brothers and grandparents. They are our role models , mentors, carers and protectors. from fixing light globes to fighting in wars, men are equally vital in children lives. So who are we to deny them.

While their presence has long brought controversy, it is the impact on children's early years that's creates the greatest impression. In my 12 years of childcare i have only come across a mere 3 males carers amidst a sea of women, and while it can often seem like the norm after time. Its not till one witnesses the presence of men on children's faces, that it all becomes heartwarming and clear. Children love, cherish and enjoy being in the company of males. Whether their missing a father or relishing the idea of a father they've never known. Children of all ages, races and genders embrace males unconditionally.

" There was this one father many years ago. Every time he came to collect his child it was like he came with the sound of an in cream van. The children would run to him, almost lining up to demand their share of him. They lit up with smiles and seemed to come alive. I still remember that dad and with each time i recall the void his absence left behind."

So how can we as advocates for equality and tolerance; provide the very children teach with a greater system of values. If we shun an irreplaceable part of their lives.

I know...I know... i hear you say. What about child protection.
But surely with all our education d awareness we can stand before children and commit to the non judgmental qualities that we so righteously preach. SO lets look at this fair and square.

Child protection; by all all means i am an advocate for child protection. But the very ignorance we display in our own behaviour towards males in childcare is the same ignorance that has allowed child abuse to become the social epidemic it is today. The facts are clear.

Statistics show that 85-90% of all child abuse happens in our own homes by people we know, not by males in childcare settings. At the end of the day letting this be a reason to deny children a male inclusive environment is well...a cop out.

All child care workers are required to complete a Working with Children Check and so they should.Ive worked at centres where males are allowed to work with older children but not babies. How absurd. Either you trust and respect them or you don't. If you don't then they shouldn't be working there anymore than a female who isn't considered trustworthy.

Its funny, as women we often allow males into our homes and lives and sometimes even recklessly and yet not once do we demand a police check of them. Yet a male worker starts at our child centre and all of sudden there's fear. Sadly such fear is actually masking ignorance.

All in all the time has come to embrace male sin childcare. Give our children back the presence of strong and caring men with whom they integrity and a deep desire to teach prevails.
Let our kids witness firsthand respectful and empowering role modeling between male and females in safe learning environment.Give our children the opportunity to laugh, learn and grow in the arms of males as they do in the arms of females.

We can only ever do our best to protect children. But lets not our efforts to protect them, become clouded by our ignorance. Don't let males become a void in their lives, when they have so much to children.

News Room

noreply@blogger.com (Lisa Marie) — Sun, 07 Jun 2009 09:53:00 +0000

NEW REGULATIONS FOR BETTER CHILDREN’S SERVICES
Thursday, 21 May 2009

From the Premier of Victoria
Victorian parents will benefit from better childcare services for their children under significant new reforms unveiled by the Brumby Government today.

At Yarraberg Children’s Centre in Richmond, the Premier John Brumby said the new Children’s Services Regulations 2009 would greatly improve childcare standards, boost staff to child ratios and increase staff qualification requirements.

“Our Government is taking action to invest in giving all Victorian children the best start in life because there is no greater investment we can make than in their futures,” Mr Brumby said.

“We want Victorian parents to have access to top quality, affordable childcare services that provide a safe, enjoyable and educational experience for their children and that’s why we are bringing in new regulations to improve the quality of the early childhood care provided.

“The new Children’s Services Regulations will boost childcare standards whilst ensuring childcare remains affordable for families, adaptive to their changing needs and attractive to quality childcare workers.

“This builds on the record investment the Victorian Government has made over the past decade to lead the way in early childhood development through boosting kindergarten accessibility, building new children’s hubs and improving participation rates in maternal and child health services.”

The Children’s Services Regulations 2009 will improve standards in the childcare sector by:
• Regulating Outside School Hours Care and Family Day Care to ensure a minimum standard of quality care;
• Increasing the staff to child ratio from 1:5 to 1:4 in standard children’s services for children under age three and the diploma qualified staff to child ratio from 1:15 to 1:12 by January 1 2012;
• Requiring qualified early childhood teachers to be employed in long day care by January 1 2014;
• Increasing the qualifications for all staff and carers to a minimum Certificate III level by January 2014; and
• Ensuring all staff and carers undergo first aid training.

Minister for Children and Early Childhood Development Maxine Morand said the Children’s Services Regulations were the result of a comprehensive review and public consultation process.

“Research shows that the most rapid period of brain development occurs in the first few years of life, so providing high quality early years’ education and care services have a profound impact on our children’s futures,” Ms Morand said.

“We have consulted widely with parents, industry and the early years’ workforce in drafting the new regulations with widespread support for this comprehensive proposal to improve the quality of early childhood services.

“These new regulations strike the right balance between improving childcare standards, maintaining affordability for families and the long-term viability of the childcare sector and its workforce.

“They will ensure childcare services can provide more educational opportunities to help our kids develop a love of learning and reach their full potential.”

Ms Morand said the Children’s Services Regulations built on the Government’s early childhood investment in the 2009 State Budget, with $13.6 million committed to ensure all Victorian children had access to a place at kindergarten.

“We have established new children’s hubs across Victoria, combining a range of early years’ services - Maternal and Child Health, childcare, early intervention, family support and kindergarten - in one location to make accessing support and services easier for Victorian families,” she said.

“So far, we have opened 49 children’s hubs and have committed to opening another 46 hubs.”

The Brumby Government has committed $16.5 million over four years to support the implementation of the new regulations.

Childcare services will be provided with training, resources and grants to meet the requirements of the new regulations.

The new Children’s Services Regulations 2009 take effect from Monday 25th May.

News Room

noreply@blogger.com (Lisa Marie) — Sun, 31 May 2009 02:20:00 +0000

Three People linked to HUGE childcare loans...
By Liam Walsh - Courier Mail Queensland
May 30,2009

A KEY contractor for ABC Learning Centres has detailed more than $5 million worth of loans to three men including a former top manager of the childcare giant and a business partner of its ex-chief executive officer.

The loan list suggests further evidence of ties between private companies, businessmen and ABC Learning, which collapsed last November.

Two of the men named as borrowers in documents filed with regulators would not confirm they had taken loans while a third disputed that he was the person named in the document.

The list is from independently owned contractor ABC Acquisitions. That company helped acquire childcare centres for ABC Learning.

ABC Acquisitions was run and owned by Don Jones, a former army officer who later developed centres.

Both ABC Learning and Mr Jones have previously said ABC Acquisitions was an independent company.

It was part of Mr Jones's 123 Group, which collapsed soon after ABC Learning went into receivership.

Mr Jones in February signed a report of affairs showing ABC Acquisitions had debts of $164 million. The largest creditor was ABC Learning at almost $130 million.

The report said ABC Acquisitions had $16 million in assets including the loans.

ABC Acquisitions liquidator Jason Bettles of Worrells said he was looking at the timing and purpose of any loans as part of general investigations.

A $1.3 million loan was for "MK". Mr Bettles said this referred to ABC Learning's former Australian operations chief Martin Kemp, who left in May last year.

Mr Kemp did not respond to an interview request yesterday.

Another $312,000 loan was marked for Ken Krynski. He and former ABC Learning chief Eddy Groves, who left the company last September, in 2004 registered a Nevada property development business.

Mr Krynski, a former US military officer, separately built American centres for ABC Learning.

He is now defending a US lawsuit from ABC Learning receivers McGrathNicol over a $40 million loan. Mr Krynski said he could not comment on the loan due to the lawsuit.

A $3.8 million loan was listed to a John Wheeler.

While that is the name of the former managing director of Melbourne-based Austock, that Mr Wheeler said he had "never had a loan" from ABC Acquisitions or related companies.

Austock was a stockbroker to ABC Learning.

It is understood ABC Acquisitions receivers McGrathNicol have been working on the basis the Mr Wheeler named in the loan was the former Austock chief, although Mr Wheeler's denial brings into question who the true recipient was.

Mr Wheeler said he had not been contacted by the receivers.

Mr Jones declined to answer questions about the loans, or verify identities.

"The loans, with all the guys that have them, they're documented stuff," he said.

Mr Jones said he could "understand" people would wonder why a contractor would lend to ABC Learning-associated people.

"There are plenty of answers there. But it's for other people – like legal people and administrators and receivers – to actually come up with those answers now," he said.

Notorious Nanny P

noreply@blogger.com (Lisa Marie) — Sun, 17 May 2009 02:32:00 +0000

There comes a time when you just have to say...What The?
Seriously it seems that while we slept, it became acceptable to ignore things like cleaning your kids ears, wiping their faces and god forbid the old faux pas of brushing their god damn hair.!

Now I don't mean to be old fashioned or gosh even critical but Christ how hard can it be. Whats more annoying is that while mums appear to spend considerable time primping themselves, today's children seem to be getting lost amongst the knots. Wild, unkept, overgrown nails and rogue strands of hair stuck to dirty faces appears to have become the norm. How!, when and why did this latest trend hit the streets.

Arhh!... the gold old days when it wouldn't be heard of to step outside without looking presentable. The days when ones children were a direct reflection of our parenting. Days it seems...that are no more.

Sadly though, this "go as you are" approach or as I say "get out of bed "look, only further points out the increasing impact of a society that wants to have its cake and eat it too. As we constantly strive to have new this and new that, we undoubtedly have to sacrifice other things like staying home with our children as apposed to working 12 hour days to afford our 5 bedroom, 4 bathrooms chateau which houses our increasingly exorbitant collection of plasma screens and latest Mazda's.

Then again when you're friends the Jone's visit i suppose they'll barely even notice ones small grotty children amongst the wonderful and aspiring new devices, your family homes proudly displays.

The real sadness here is that where once children where revered as a invaluable investment within a family, for which time and yes hard work would be expected. They are now considered to be another cool accessory. A must have for the season that can be paid off as you go and should you find this new accessory is taking too much of your time, you can simply put it into childcare so you can work longer hours to buy the next latest gizmo. At the end of the day its an accessory that you've got for when you want it, you can put it on the shelf and if need be bring it out when you want to show it off.

But for the children themselves they will continue to just wait like a toy in the shop, hoping that like a new fad they will come around and will once again be the next big thing.

For those woman who stayed at home those many years ago, invested the time and effort, saw your children as a job worth doing well. Heaven only knows sacrificed your social life to be home giving your children a nice warm bath before brushing their hair and tucking them into bed. I can only salute your bravery as the Jone's well continue to live in a house they can neither afford nor enjoy as much as the children they can never quite find time for.

There must be a time when we stop worrying about the feelings and personal goals of parents and say...What about the children. You know the one's who's bonus got you that new Nintendo Wii. What about their needs. What about their thoughts on getting up at 5.30am so you can make it to work on time, who stay till after dark, tired and wanting a bath. The children who will in years to come tell you that all the latest devices meant nothing. After all didn't our grandparents always say "if you cant afford, don't have the time to care for it or aren't prepared to put it in the time.....DON'T HAVE IT.!

This is Notorious Nanny P, telling it like it is....

Males in Early Childhood

noreply@blogger.com (Lisa Marie) — Sun, 10 May 2009 06:11:00 +0000

Living Childcare would like to welcome Brendan Walton, a child care professional of 6 years and a member of Males in Early Childhood to give us a little insight into his career, studies and experiences as a male in childcare.

His Story so far...
When starting my Diploma in Community Services (Children’s Services) course, as an 18 year old guy I didn’t really mind being one of only two males in a group of sixty students. I was definitely not involved in the course for this reason. Anyone who has ever worked in childcare knows you have to love this career path to work in it. I really love working in childcare. I believe knowing that you are a role model to young people, and the fact that you have had even the slightest impact on the children’s learning and growing is a worthwhile profession indeed.

It hardly occurred to me that I would be in the minority as greatly as we really are. Through the two years of study, I was accepted by the other students and TAFE teachers who all treated me as just one of the class. This was great in some respects, but I did find I was not taken as seriously at first, until I showed them I wanted to be here because I wanted to be a childcare worker. I may have been overlooked, and spoken down to on occasions, too. The teachers tried to support me as much as they could. Some felt helping me through would be to my benefit; others felt I really had to excel with my work to prove I’d be able to cope in this female dominated industry. I’m not sure which teaching style helped me the most; perhaps they both did in their own way.

But I’m here 6 years later after receiving my Diploma and have been working in early childhood since then. Still young in my own eyes at 25, I have now realised how more male early childhood workers would benefit the lives of the children. I have dealt with very little prejudice myself in my career. I have only been praised by parents who use the services.

I know many male childcare workers who have been segregated. They’re misunderstood by both parents and staff. This may be due to the stereotypes. Yes, stereotypes are originally created with some fact behind them and the truth is more males are accused of abuse on children than females in our country. This is not to say that any man who wants to be involved in children’s lives have ill intentions. This line of thinking is a hurdle that males in the industry need to overcome. The best way I have found to show people that men are a positive factor in childcare settings is just to do the job I love so much. I have a great rapport with the children and we all have great experiences together.

Many men want to work with children and many of these men can develop wonderful working relationships with children as I did. What stops them from pursuing a career in childcare are the thoughts of being judged by peers and parents, as well as the niggling fear at the back of their minds that a situation may arise where they themselves could be charged with some wrong doing. It’s a way of thinking that needs to be eradicated for the benefit of the children in our care.

Children need positive interactions from caring females in the early stages of their lives.
Children need positive interactions from caring males in these early years, too.

Our team at Living Childcare would like to invite our readers to gain more information and awarenes of Males in Early Childhood. So if you have any questions or ideas we would love to hear them. You can comment below or email us at editor@livingchildcare.com

If you'd like to know more about this support group check out their website at www.malesinearlychildhood.bravehost.com

Whats New

noreply@blogger.com (Lisa Marie) — Sun, 26 Apr 2009 11:38:00 +0000

WHATS NEW!
We all know how important role modeling is....So why not Go Tote-ally Mad
with these gorgeous totes and show kids the value of the environment and look fab at the same time..!!!

This must have tote is available online at www.cafepress.com
You'll be blown away at the range of totes to be had. Starting from $15.00

This waterproof and stylish tote will keep all your books safe.
Available for $14.95 from www.jamberry.com.au

If your after a big brand tote, check out this adorable screen printed one for $29.00 from www.fossil.com.au

These great reusable totes come in a huge range of colours. Just $8.50 each or set of 5 in each range for $37.95 www.envirosax.com.au

This tote is sure to be a winner for all fashionista's out there. Just $19.99 from
www.bagladies.com

Too cute to boot, this one will be loved by us all. Brought to you by www.missearth.biz it costs just $19.99

Now this is the one on every ones lips.
Designed by Anya Hindmarch and released a year ago for just 5 pounds. It sold out in
hours and now sells for up to $250 on Ebay....We still want one though...

Discover your inner child with this gorgeous tote. You'll be the envy of co-workers and the kids. Just $14.00 www.plasticland.com.au

Marilyn Farlow- Her Story

noreply@blogger.com (Lisa Marie) — Sun, 19 Apr 2009 06:28:00 +0000

Here at Living Childcare we believe it takes all kinds of people to raise and care for children. Sometimes its not about how qualified you are or which theorist you follow.Sometimes its about ones dedication,compassion,insight,and respect for children's needs.So we invited Marilyn Farlow a veteran Family Day Carer to tell her wonderful story ....in her own words.

My life as a carer began in 1988, I was looking for a way to earn money as World Expo was going to be in Brisbane and my husband and I wanted to take the girls.
I had never heard of “Family Day Care” before when my husband told me about it , he said his ex-wife had been a carer and had enjoyed it. I decided to check it out, after all I always had a house full of my children’s friends why not get paid for it.
We lived in a 2 bedroom villa with a small yard, I was nervous when the lady from the local scheme came by to have a chat, I was concerned that my home would not be suitable.

She arrived and we chatted about what it meant to be a carer, she had a look around and told me that I shouldn’t have any problems. I had to attend a Red Cross course and get my first aid certificate, that was it , I was a carer and within 3months I was up and running with 5 children ranging in age from 7months to 4 years.

After the first week I was certain that I could earn money some other way, this was hard work and my girls were really not happy about having to share their mother and their bedrooms with these little horrors(my eldest daughters words not mine).
The weeks went by and a routine began to take shape and after a while I found that I was enjoying seeing how these little people wormed their way into my heart and into my family life. We saved hard and had the most wonderful week at Expo.

Over the past 20 years I estimate that I have had an influence in the lives of over 150 children and their families. Some of these children had special needs, this made me feel so blessed that my children were all healthy.

Some days are harder than others and sometimes I just wanted to have a sicky, but you can’t when the work comes to you. Your home is not your own and it is not easy having to be wife, mother, carer, keeping on top of housework, and the necessary paper work for your business and opening the door with a smile. Then there are training nights, after a long sometimes stressful day to have to turn out and listen to someone telling you how to effectively deal with nits, then on the other hand there are the fun nights when you get to act like a kid and get into the paint and glue or look around at all the new resources. Getting together with other carers and just having a chat and sharing ideas.

There have been some low points in my time as a carer. One that comes to mind was a time when the mother of the first child that came to my care was due to have her second baby, her daughter and I made a birthday card for the new baby and there was much excitement. The big day arrived and we waited patiently, only to receive the news that the baby was still born. I was devastated, this mother and I cried on each others shoulders and helped ease each others pain.

I must admit there have been more high points than low ,we had moved up to Tweed Heads in 1997 , After working for 5 years, 3 little boys, that had been with me all this time were now leaving to go to school. The parents put on a party for me, it was so nice to be thought of so highly by them and their children. For years after I would get invitations to birthday parties or they would drop in to see me.

Now that I am about to leave this wonderful time in my life behind me , I would whole heartedly recommend this profession to any one that loves to be around children, I found it to be rewarding and frustrating and just when you think you have had enough a little face turns up to you and says “ I wuv oo maylin”
My future plans? I am not sure. I have been looking forward to a more relaxed existence, walking on the beach, sitting and reading a good book, more time for my grandchildren, I don’t know. What I do know is that I will miss those trusting little faces that beam at me when they arrive to care and the sloppy kisses as they leave.
Marilyn Farlow

Living Childcare would like to thank Marilyn for sharing her story and special moments. We would also like to hear from anyone else wishing to share their story too.

Inspired- Angela Rossmanith

noreply@blogger.com (Lisa Marie) — Sun, 19 Apr 2009 02:32:00 +0000

If like many others you’ve spent time searching for the best ways to teach and raise children. Then perhaps you should a grab a copy of Angela Rossmanith’s “When will the Children play? This incredibly simple yet insightful little book, gives readers a wonderful hindsight to what children really need to reach their potential.

Living Childcare sat down with her to find out more…

Angela,Thank you so much for the opportunity to discuss ‘When will the Children play? Its truly a special resource for all those working in the industry as well as those raising children.

1. There were so many poignant comments by children in your book. Is there one that really stays with you?I found all the children's responses thoughtful and beautiful. They were so spontaneous and revealed the natural warmth and humor of children.

2. The book really emphasized on letting children be children. How can carers in a child care setting achieve this, when there is such a strong focus to cover all elements of education daily?
The roots of the word 'education’ means 'to lead out'; but often education is taken to mean a highly structured approach to learning. Given an environment that's rich in terms of the senses, and adults who are willing to respond generously to children's curiosity, children will not only learn, but they'll learn to love learning. Isn't this what we want to encourage? There are certainly pressures on carers in childcare settings, and what I'd suggest is that they balance those pressures by approaching their days with an attitude of playfulness.

3. For childcare professionals; routines and daily workloads are essential to keep things running smoothly. Like parents in your book; how can we honestly, as carers ensure that we don’t force children to our own schedule?
Whether we like it or not, children learn about some level of scheduling early on. For example, there's time to eat, time to have a bath, time to go shopping, time to leave for daycare, and so on. Most families have some degree of routine so that daily life runs smoothly. The problem is that with today's pressures, children are often expected to fit into adults' ideas of what needs to be happening from hour to hour. I'd encourage anyone who raises children or otherwise cares for them to build time into every day when they are free of timetables and schedules. In fact, I believe every human being needs this for their well being.

4. The child care industry is continually campaigning for smaller ratios. While this is great news; there is this belief that we should be near and with the children at all times. Do you feel that as carers we tend to involve ourselves too much in children play? Should there be more focus on children’s own space?
Being near children is necessary for their safety, and occasionally for some guidance as they play. But I'd argue for children's own space, where they are free to be who they want to be and play as they like with adult supervision or too much hovering. Adult hovering is inhibiting and limiting. For example, fantasy play is an essential part of children's early experience, and they need the space to enter this fully and not to feel corrected or to be given advice. Adults have a habit of intruding on children's play in the name of 'improving' their experience.

5. How can carers provide a better balance between enough attention and providing children with personal space.My first thought here is that carers talk to children as little as possible during play time. They might occasionally ask a question, or offer quiet help if necessary, but any carer who tunes in to what children are doing, who observes acutely and is sensitive to their needs, will achieve the balance between enough attention and personal space.

6.You mentioned in the book that too many parents , too often. Overwhelm their children with activities and plans. Taking into account that a high level of children spend up to 8hrs a day 5 days a week in care. Do you feel that childcare settings can also be overwhelming with little time for children to just sit and relax?
Yes, I'd agree absolutely with this. Every human being is a unit of considerable energy, whether or not they are active, and with a number of children in a room a small child can be overwhelmed, especially a sensitive child. I'd want any centre where children are cared for to provide plenty of quiet time, plenty of opportunities for children to seek their own entertainment or to sit and dream.

7. Today’s children are spending of over 35 hrs a week in care. How can we provide opportunities that allow children to simply relax and rest?
This is a huge number of hours for a little person to be in care, along with so many others. But for many parents there is no other option, and carers can help by providing a cozy, loving atmosphere where children are held both physically and metaphorically. It's hard to relax when you're on alert, and I feel that many children feel on alert from an early age. Ideally, carers would provide an atmosphere where little ones feel at home.

8. There seems to be an abundance of studies regarding anxiety in children, behavioral problems, hyperactivity and stress. How can carers begin to tackle this within early childhood settings?
I've written about the high levels of anxiety in children, the stress and even depression children can experience. Again, a loving atmosphere where there is no fear of failure or dread of expectations will help children to relax and feel safe and secure. There's plenty of time to learn skills, to learn to read and write and so on. What's so important in those early years is to establish a sense of safety and security so that children trust the people around them.

9. Your career has seen you to take on many amazing opportunities from interviewing inspirational people to publishing your work around the world in wide variety of publications. Has there been one thing that you have been really proud or held dearly?
I've been so fortunate to do the work I do. I wanted to write from a very early age, and to write about children and parenting has been a great joy to me. While I love what I do, I'd have to say that what I'm most proud of in my life is co-raising three wonderful children and having the relationship that I do with them. They are a great inspiration to me, both in terms of their attitude to life and in their optimism for the future. When parenting is tough, during those early years, it's good to keep in mind that you are building a relationship with your children that can be the greatest of joys for the rest of your life.

10. While “Living Childcare” is passionate about Child protection and Children’s Rights. In 2005 you were nominated for the United Nations of Australia media Peace Awards for increasing awareness of Children’s Rights and Issues”. Can you tell us a bit about your involvement in this area?
It was a great thrill to be nominated for this award, and it came as a surprise to me. However, it made me realise that my passion for writing about the needs of children is important. I'm a grandmother, and with this distance I can see more clearly that as a society we can be caught up in ways of behaving towards children that seem to make perfect sense yet we don't see the full picture. For example, there's the idea that adults are very busy and so children need to fit in, and the argument goes that because children are adaptable they won't suffer. I don't believe this at all, and this is why I wrote the book When Will the Children Play?, and why I continue to write about the needs of children and childhood.

“Child care V’s Paperwork: Is red tape defining quality care?

noreply@blogger.com (Lisa Marie) — Sun, 19 Apr 2009 01:56:00 +0000

All work and no play is quickly becoming synonymous of those working in the child care industry. It appears child care professionals Australia wide are being over whelmed with burgeoning amounts of paperwork that is silently eating away at the amount of quality time spent with children.“It’s like an epidemic, everyday in more and more ways were being required to do more paperwork that frankly child careers see as having little or no value to children" say one child carer.

So how much is too much and what exactly is the true value of this paperwork; is it being implemented to greater the quality of care and if so how does it justify being with the children less or perhaps its real value is top provide child care providers with greater leeway in regards to liability?.

“I would have to say that 30% of my day is spent doing paperwork. From signing in and out every time I leave a room to signing to say I’ve read the weekly focus topic” says another. If we spent this much time focusing on whether children are provided with enough food or adequate toys we would have a greater quality of care. But yet you don’t see the directors or owners requiring us to sign forms to say there was enough food each day. Whatever the reasons behind this growing problem it’s evident that it lies in the hands of directors, centre owners and policy makers, than those actually caring for children.

It’s also become apparent that paperwork within the industry is being prioritised much higher than time spent with children, with the belief that at the end of the day it is vital that there is sufficient documentation to support any claims made against those providing care. Those working within council or smaller private centres say there is definitely a growing level of paperwork and for those working in corporate centres; staffs are truly shocked at the level of paperwork required.

So where does quality care lie? Is it in the daily smiles of happy children that receive an abundance of attention in the presence of carer’s; albeit paper works undone? Or is it in the faces of children staff cant quite recall the name of despite all their paperwork being done with their “I” dotted and their ‘T’s” crossed. At what point do we stop handing out paperwork and ask children what they want! Perhaps the answer might just surprise us.

Until this happens I leave you with this question. What do you think children really want?
Are they after child care that is of less quality but rigorously protocol to ensure their few and far between toys are hygienically cleaned, that their day is filled with activities; despite playing alone as their carers are lovingly dedicated to filling out paperwork that will endeavor to prove the kids played in a secure, hygienic, ratio approved, strict policy guided day; albeit unhappily.

Or do they simply want a day of care where the focus is them and only them. Where they are priority number one and everything else comes second, where carers spend their days making children laugh, watching them grow and telling them their special. All while ensuring that their tummies have been filled, their minds have been educated, their dreams encouraged and their well being sought; albeit paper work undone

At the end of the day children don’t care is paperwork’s done….and why should they!!

Aunty Wendy's Mob

noreply@blogger.com (Lisa Marie) — Sun, 19 Apr 2009 01:42:00 +0000

For those that don't know Aunty Wendy's Mob is to childcare professionals what Vegemite is to kids....a classic favourite. While there's barely a centre out there that's yet to hear of Wendy Notley, Living childcare discovered more about the magic of Aunty Wendy's Mob.

What inspired you to create the Cd’s?
The songs on my first album, Growin’ Up Strong were inspired by the Aboriginal children at Murawina Aboriginal Child Care Centre in Eveleigh Street, Redfern, NSW. Murawina was established in the early 1970’s and continues to be administered and staffed by Aboriginal women. In 1990, I successfully applied to work there and I’m proud to say, as a non-Aboriginal teacher, that my relationship with Murawina and the Redfern Aboriginal community continues today. My second album, happy to be me, reflects the joy and pride that lives strong in the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander kids I’ve known over these last seventeen years.
Why do you think the songs are so well received by children of all cultural backgrounds?
I think the songs ‘feel real’ and authentic. The lyrics highlight the similarities between kids and explore experiences that we all share. When there’s so much in common, it’s exciting to learn about and hopefully appreciate the differences that another culture offers.

The song “wheels on the Holden” is such a fantastic song for all Australian children, that really makes you feel proud to sing. Did it surprise you how well it ended up?
No, not really. It was very organic. I wrote the song about my EJ Holden that I’d driven faithfully for 15 years. There were Bundjalung women working at Murawina when I was there and I heard a lot of language being spoken. I asked permission from Bundjalung Elders to include some great language words in the lyrics, added some repetition and a bit of humour… and it was a winner! But it always amazes me that no matter where I go, the two favourite songs from the Growin’ Up Strong album are The Wheels on the Holden and Red, Black and Yellow.

What obstacles did you encounter when making the cd’s?
Being non-Aboriginal and writing and producing songs and publishing Resource Books with an Aboriginal perspective meant that it was crucial that I followed correct protocols regarding the inclusion of information about Aboriginal cultures. I received written permission from Community Councils, Land Councils and Elders to include all the Aboriginal language names and language words that appear in my lyrics. In some cases it took 14 months to actually get the OK in writing, not because there was resistance but because it wasn’t super important business and would often be put to the bottom of the pile for the next meeting. But I waited and kept the connection and my patience was always appreciated. My lyrics and Resource Books were reviewed and are supported by Aboriginal education groups based in NSW. The biggest obstacle has been lack of money to finance the CDs and Resource Books. All my work has been self-funded and it takes forever to recoup the production costs. Everyone burns CDs these days, which is a real bummer for independent artists like myself.

What are your future plans?
I’m just about to begin collaboration with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander writers and directors to film a ‘pilot’ for a possible children’s television series or educational DVD, based on the Aunty Wendy’s Mob songs and choreography… wouldn’t it be great! So, fingers crossed. It looks hopeful that six of the songs on, happy to be me will be made into picture storybooks, illustrated by Aboriginal artists… fingers crossed, again. I’ll also be presenting at the national SNAICC (Secretariat of National Aboriginal and Islander Child Care) Conference in Adelaide this year. For the rest, I’ll continue to present my songs and choreography in preschools and schools and keep up my volunteer work in the community.

The use of Aboriginal words and names in the songs seem to roll off the tongues of children so easily and natural. Was this something you expected or a lovely surprise?
The kids were amazing and sang the language words effortlessly and had fun doing it. For some of the language names and words, I’d asked the language speakers themselves to send a tape of the correct pronunciation or I’d repeat the language name on the phone with a language speaker listening to me and tape myself saying the correct pronunciation. The kids would listen to the tapes at rehearsal and off they’d go. We did our best to get it right but no doubt some local speakers might be shaking their heads.

What has been the best response to your music from the mouths of children?
Hard question because children always say great stuff everyday, but more than what is said, it’s the joy and connection I see in children’s faces when they’re singing and dancing to my songs, whether they’re Aboriginal children or non-Aboriginal kids. It’s powerful and emotional.

In the classroom setting how do you think one can best involve music such as yours into the area of multiculturalism or self esteem?
With my songs, I think it’s about incorporating the choreography that accompanies the songs into the classroom program. It’s a way for kids to ‘feel’ the song and it’s meaning more fully in their bodies and connect to the lyrics. My lyrics are really positive, the tunes are pretty catchy and the dance moves are great fun. So, no matter who you are or where you’re from, if you ‘step into the lyrics’ and imagine yourself in the song while your dancing, you’re going to feel pretty good about yourself.

You can get all the information about Wendy and her products at
www.auntywendysmob.com
auntywendysmob@auntrywendysmob.com

Meet the Nanny Doctor

noreply@blogger.com (Lisa Marie) — Sun, 19 Apr 2009 01:31:00 +0000

Are you a nanny? Do you sometimes wish there was someone who could not only understand your job but actually be able to provide you with advice and support? Well relax because Living Childcare has found her..........Meet Lindsay Heller: The Nanny Doctor.

Dr Lindsay Heller is a licensed Clinical Psychologist based in Los Angeles. Dr Heller has worked as a nanny for over 10 years and works from an Attachment Theory perspective.
Living Childcare sat down to find out more.....

What has been the response from other nannies/parents about your service?
The response to the Nanny Doctor Consulting Services has been tremendous from both nannies and parents. It’s all very exciting! I have really enjoyed putting my experience as a nanny of 10 years together with my work as a licensed clinical psychologist in order to help families and nannies all over the world. From families with older children I hear “Where were you 5 years ago? When my children were babies?” From new moms I hear things like, “Thank goodness you are here. You have been such a great help! This process can be so confusing but you made it so much easier and clear.” Nannies have reportedly felt so grateful to have someone “on their side” someone to help communicate with their employers and get their needs heard. A lot of Hollywood celebrities have taken an interest in my work as well, however I can tell you that the issues of busy Hollywood moms are not unlike the issues of most moms! They really care about their children and want the best for their children!

As a nanny how often did you come across other nannies that wanted /needed something like this?
Honestly, I don’t know a nanny who wouldn’t want a Nanny Doctor involved. At first, some nannies may not fully understand what it is I exactly do, once they realize that I am there to help and improve the situation or make sure they continue to have a good experience they are very much on –board and motivated to work together. When the Nanny Doctor comes in to help, for nannies, I listen to their perspective and ideas about the situation. Nannies feel more comfortable speaking with me about how they are feeling because I am not their boss and the power differential has disappeared. In most cases, I meet with nannies and learn a lot about what is going on in the situation and that information informs the greater plan and recommendations. The nannies input is invaluable! I often have the opportunity to be the voice for the nanny. In which, I am honoured to be able to do so.

As a nanny, did you ever think this was something you could achieve?
The idea for The Nanny Doctor consulting services was born out of my work as a nanny and seeing a need for an objective consultant who is outside of the relationship between the nanny and the parent. When I was still a nanny I began taking notes and outlining The Nanny Doctor book that I am working on right now. At first I thought I needed the book to be able to precede with my consultant work, however I realized that I could proceed with my consulting work before there was a completed book and so I went to work. Shortly after finishing my final nanny job, I found that parents, through word of mouth knew my skill set of being a former nanny and as a licensed clinical psychologist and would seek me out for advice. In the fall of 2007, I decided to formalize it and give it a name, a logo and a website, along with a detailed list of the services that are provided.

What did you enjoy most as a nanny?
Of course the children! I am sure I am not alone among nannies when I say that! They are absolutely the best reason for being a nanny! Fantastic, beautiful, never fail to make me smile!

What were the most common concerns other nannies had with their bosses?
Quite often the problems boil down to one main problem in general – communication. There are many reasons for this – one is the power differential. A nanny may see something going on in relation to the children’s behaviour and the parenting, or their schedule and have an opinion or recommendation. Due to being timid because of fear of being fired or in conflict with their boss, many nannies will not voice their thoughts. Also, in some formal households it would be absolutely inappropriate for a nanny to “speak up.” Sometimes there are actual language difficulties that contribute to communication problems. In those cases, it is essential that a mediator who is bilingual can come in and help with the communication. For these cases, I often bring in my Bilingual Nanny Liaison.

Do you feel a lot of the issues are simple things like eg poor communication?
Nothing is ever simple. The relationship between a nanny and a family is very complex. There are emotions and thoughts and previous experiences, assumptions, unexpressed expectations, resentment, all sorts of things that could fall under the umbrella of “poor communication.” Most issues are complex and go well beyond what is visible on the surface or the initial complaint.

During your studies in Psychology was there a point were you thought, “everything suddenly makes sense” or was it more gradual?
Well, I’d have to say that at first it was very gradual, like putting pieces together and then it went really fast and became very obvious that this was something that is absolutely needed in the world. The key to it all was the Attachment Theory link. Attachment theory is a theory that really focuses in on the relationship children have with their caregivers. In most cases children develop what is called a primary attachment to their parents. However, it is possible for children to develop secondary attachments to those other significant caregivers in their lives. For example, how many people remember their kindergarten teacher or babysitter when they were younger – usually warm feelings are associated with this time and fond memories. My knowledge of Attachment theory in my clinical work and study of psychology absolutely brought everything together. It just really fit in that the theory gets at the importance of protecting and maintaining the relationship between families and nannies.

What has surprised you the most in your studies/work?
The most continuously surprising thing is how every family and every situation is so different. No family is like any other, which is why it is so important to work with every family as unique and identify all of the unique aspects of the family that contribute to the relationship between nanny and family. Just when I think I have seen it all and have it all figured out, a new family calls with an issue that I have never seen before. Whether I am working with a celebrity family or an everyday family, there are things that make each family unique and it’s important to look at those aspects so that my services can be uniquely tailored to each family’s needs.

Has there been any funny or scary moment’s in your job as the Nanny Doctor?
There are so many moments! Funny moments have been in the details and the discussions with parents. I commonly work with parents who are going through a transition of some kind. Recently I was working with a family where they had a 2 year old and a new baby. Not only were they adjusting to the new baby, they were in the process of moving into a new home. When I arrived at the home their 2 year old was playing amongst the boxes and he overheard his mother and I talking about the possible addition of another nanny to help with the new baby. Just then, with great concern, the 2 year old popped out of a box and said, with great sadness, head down, “Who is the nanny at the new house? Where will Katie go?” It became clear quite quickly that the little boy thought that his current nanny came with that house and he thought when he moved into his next house there would be a new nanny. He was clearly distressed by the thought of having to be separated from his current nanny.

Which again, is evidence of how important and meaningful this relationship is to young children. Regardless of his distress, it was a silly moment and he was quite relieved to know that his nanny was coming to the new house as well. Scary Moments? I suppose that those moments are actually quite serious and tend to be when a family system is so dysfunctional and the children may rarely see their parents, or nanny and parent aren’t speaking on a regular basis, the nanny becomes isolated and often feels “on her own.” Other scary moments include times where there is aberrant behaviour on the nanny’s part and maybe has been under the influence of drugs or alcohol while on the job or has blatantly lied about what activities she has engaged in with the children, or has lied about herself and perhaps is a smoker even though in the interview and application process she stated that she does not smoke. Unfortunately I have seen situations where there are three nannies for three children 24 hours a day and the children see one of there parents 15 minutes a day at breakfast and see there father only in passing or every other day. Nannies do all they can to keep the children safe and happy but at the end of the day, the children need their parents also!

As a nanny was there a moment when you realised Nanny Doctor was the answer?
And how did you go about it? I don’t think that there ever was a single moment however I can think of certain instances where it would have surely helped! One in particular is when in a family where the parents were divorced and I worked as a nanny between the two families homes and one of the parents thought I was “siding” more with the other parent. As a result, there was a lot of resentment, anger, paranoia, and our discussion was just inefficient and non-productive. We were both too close to the situation. We needed a mediator of sorts and outside, objective party. A Nanny Doctor would have been perfect!

What has been some of the best responses to your services?
The best responses are when a family is committed and follows through with my recommendations. That is the hardest part of my job – getting families to follow through. Families who learn from situations and then learn different ways of addressing issues with their nanny in a healthy and appropriate way are absolutely the best outcomes. I love hearing from moms that I work with months after I worked with them, “Oh my gosh, you helped us so much! Thanks to you we have a better relationship in general with our nanny and now that we have the tools and techniques to handle things we feel confident about it doing on our own.”

You seem to be popping up everywhere, how has the public responded to your service?
The public has taken such an interest in my work. Some of it has been related to the celebrity clientele that I have worked with here in Hollywood, but beyond that I think there has been an interest because a genuine need exists for these services. Also, these services are truly unique and as a licensed clinical psychologist and former nanny of 10 years, I am the only consultant of my kind. I take great pride (and daily excitement) in being a part of developing a whole new field of psychology and nanny work.

What advice do you have for other nannies wanting to develop their nannying skills/career?
Nannies have all sorts of goals. Some want to be professional career nannies, some are nannies until they feel they are ready to have their own children, some are teachers, regardless of what path a nanny may choose, a nanny should take pride in her work and respect the position and the enormous importance of her job. Caring for and helping to raise children is such a huge responsibility. As a nanny one should be aware of all of the possibilities you have to shape the life of a child on a daily basis.

Finally…what’s next for The Nanny Doctor?
Next up is continuing to do my work as The Nanny Doctor, but also, I am writing a book that focuses on the unique relationship between family and nanny from an Attachment Theory perspective. The book will be a manual of sorts that will help families and nannies maintain a healthy relationship from start to finish! There will be a lot about the research, anecdotes, and techniques and tips. It’s all very exciting!

Visit her site at www.thenannydoctor.com

Just having staff isnt enough.

noreply@blogger.com (Lisa Marie) — Sun, 19 Apr 2009 01:26:00 +0000

The child care industry is often known for its high turn over and poor staff communication but little thought goes into why. While there are the obvious issues such as low wages and poor conditions, one must ask themselves why thousands chose child care for a career and yet nearly one third also choose to leave it in such a short time.

Perhaps this is due to the lack of development and growth available to staff within the industry. Unlike other industries there is a limited number of opportunities for staff to develop their skills. While getting to know your staff may seem like one of those dreaded camp games of the 90’s, there are many advantages to knowing your staff well, like developing a strong sense of communication and opportunities for open and respectful relationships.

Speaking to a variety of staff it quickly becomes clear that there is a large void in this kind of communication and is responsible for a lot of work dissatisfaction’s how do we as both child care professionals, directors and staff management over come this rather large and disheartening issue, that seems to be burdening our wonderful and dedicated field of children’s services.
For which is often simply small and trivial concerns that should be solved quickly and clearly to all those involved. The answer to this obviously does not lie with any one person or group but merely that of the team within the centre.

Firstly it is essential that everyone realises that every member of a team has goals and valuable skills to offer and only when we forget or ignore these aspects do we start to get these niggling issues.

If staff can use their skills to raise and educate amazing children then there is no reason they cannot solve these basic issues. Other than it seeming too hard or not enough time, both of which are not good enough and time must be made to correct them.

Only once we as a team are aware of others goals and ideas can we put steps in place to help them achieve them. Even at times when they may be beyond the boundaries of the child care setting there is no reason why staff cannot simply acknowledge them. As professionals working with children we are all to aware of children’s needs to be acknowledged and this is no different in adults.

Many staff seem to express negative views of others but the underlying feelings are generally that of admiration , a desire to become more like or take on tasks of those they work with. And while they may not have the qualifications it is not to say that they cannot be encouraged by being given tasks they can achieve or by learning first hand of these task through others.
At the end of the day the shear cost of advertising and placement of new staff greatly out ways the small task of getting to know your staff.

Here are a few ways to get to know your staff without sitting around the camp fire:
-Make designated times to spend a few minutes with each staff to discuss there ideas for the week or long term

-Have staff as a group casually discuss their ideas and goals in a relaxed setting such as outdoors and away from closed in rooms.

- Post staff goals on the walls in staff rooms so all staff are aware .So when an opportunity arises there is an open air about who might like to take part

-Have a training board where staff can highlight there interests in child related areas and if the training needs to be undertaken by a more qualified staff, make time for the less experienced staff to hear about it rather than being closed out of the discussion

There are so many ways to help staff find their potential or simply fulfill their interests but there is only a few ways to bring staff back. Every staff member is a gift and has their place so losing them to such menial issues is a shame. There is often to much emphasis on just replacing staff and not enough on keeping the amazing and tireless people that do a remarkable and invaluable job within society.

Finding Your Joy – By Alexandra Petrou

noreply@blogger.com (Lisa Marie) — Sun, 19 Apr 2009 01:21:00 +0000

Children crying, there are still 2 loads of washing to be done, medication to be given, sleep charts to be filled in…ahhh! It gets you thinking “Is this all there is?”, and let’s be honest – “Where has my joy gone? I’m sure this used to be fun”

Fresh faced and a little naive, I finished university and couldn’t wait for my first teaching position. Finger puppets, treasure box and my Wiggles CD in hand, I was ready and raring to go. I can still remember the joy I received, watching the babies playing with shaving foam, or the pre-schoolers role play “school”, seeing yourself through their eyes with their comments such as “that makes me sad” – making you cringe and smile at the same time.

Sadly as the years went on a mundane routine set in, until at the end of another day I looked back and honestly couldn’t remember a single conversation I had had with a child (besides “where are your shoes?” or “would you like a drink of water?”).

Enough is enough – the turn around
Why did you start working with the children in the first place? I’m guessing it wasn’t your love of safety checklists or cleaning out lockers. Now these day to day chores may become part and parcel with the position, but it’s time to shift your focus.
You may say “easier said than done” – that’s why I’ve put together a list of tips which really helped me to get back on track and helped me to find my joy again!

What’s your personal philosophy?
I know when I was studying, it was mandatory to write out your personal philosophy. Dust off your old assignment and re-discover what got you fired up and passionate about working with children in the first place. You don’t have a philosophy? Can’t seem to locate your old one, or find that your beliefs have changed? Just write a new one. You will be surprised how liberating and motivating this can be.

Appreciate what you’ve got
A recent survey found that 2 out of 3 working mothers would prefer to be at home, with their children, instead of at work (26th August, 2008 - The Daily Telegraph). Now I don’t want to sound too dramatic, but I honestly believe that is a blessing to spend time with, and see these children develop, learn and do life, week after week. When you stop for a minute and realise what an amazing responsibility and honour it is, it will change your perception of how special and important working with children in.

Look at your strengths
What are you good at? What do you enjoy? One of the best things about working with children is that children are always keen to take on more information and new skills. Play dough and colouring-in is fine, but how about mosaics, photography, football, yoga? I think we really need to look outside the box. By bringing your interests and strengths into the classroom, you will find that the children will be developing new skills with the help of their masterful teacher, along with you blossoming, teaching what you know and enjoy. You will be surprised how many life skills and concepts can be taught. Through cooking, for example you are teaching measurement, time, sharing, health and hygiene…and the list goes on.

It’s time to renovate
Take a minute to look around your classroom. Is it fun, interesting? Somewhere you would like to be day in, day out? Is it the way you and the children genuinely wish it would be? I’m guessing the answer is no. It’s easy to get caught up in the small things, and in doing so, ignore the big-i.e. your classroom. Now we may not all have budgets which allow for dramatic changes such as a fresh coat of paint or new furniture, however you would be surprised with how much can be done with little money and time. New shelving, cushions, a fish tank or a simple thorough clean and tidy up can make a huge difference.

Sit down with your class and have a brainstorming session, discussing what your dream room would look like. Figure out what is do-able (that indoor pool may have to wait), and get to it. The sooner the better, while the children can see their suggestions come to fruition and whilst you’re still motivated!

Go Team!
Your “team” can make or brake how you feel about your work. Working with children can be stressful, and it’s definitely a team effort that will get you through each day. Are you working as a team? If so-fantastic, if not-you must change this immediately. You may not all be the best of friends, but being professional and co-operative is a must. You probably see staff members more than your own family, so having an effective and fun team environment should be a key priority. Having team meetings and socials will give you time to establish a central vision for the Centre/Pre-school/room as well as helping to build friendships out of work hours.

Learn something new
How about up-skilling? If you’ve been in the early childhood profession for a while, you may find that your training is quite dated and you’re feeling a bit stale. Bridging your Diploma of Children’s Services to an Early Childhood Degree, or your Degree to a Masters is quite an undertaking, but may just be what you need to get motivated again.
If you don’t have any formal qualifications, studying towards your Diploma or Degree will help you to link the practical to the theoretical. There are many external and part-time study options available, if you wish to continue working whilst studying.

Don’t underestimate the difference an in-service can also make. Pick in-services that will help you work on your strengths as well as develop your weaknesses. For example, if you’re confident with music and movement and struggle with your observation skills, attending both types of in-services/training will assist in lifting your music and movement skills to another level whilst further developing your weaker observation skills.
Ensure you share all that you’ve learnt, along with resources at the next staff meeting, so that all staff members can up-skill with you.

Working with children is an awesome privilege. Take some time to review, appreciate what you’ve got, work with your strengths, renovate, work as a team and up-skill to bring back that joy that both you and the children you care for deserve. Good luck!

Alexandra Petrou graduated in 1999 with a bachelor of Teaching (Early Childhood Education) for the University of Western Sydney. Having taught for over 7 years and directing a centre for 2 ½ years, she now works for Expect A Star Education Services, recruiting staff for the early childhood profession.

Workplace violence: When kids hurt..

noreply@blogger.com (Lisa Marie) — Sun, 19 Apr 2009 01:15:00 +0000

If like me, you've attempted to find a trace of information on the topic of workplace violence towards childcare professional’s you’ll have undoubtedly come up empty handed. Search the web and the results are even worse.

Yet ask anyone in the industry and this somewhat taboo subject quickly comes alive with personal stories. Shocking, vivid and emotional accounts of violence at the hands of children begin to flow.

For childcare professionals this is not uncommon nor is it something hey expect to be acknowledged. Sadly there has long been and old school belief that violence at the hands of children is not something to be discussed. After all they are only children what harm can they do.

The reality is hundreds of Australia’s 90,000 childcarers are confronted day in and day out with a multitude of abuse. Biting scratching, punching and kicking are all part of carers day so why is it so acceptable.

Quite simply we must question why social acceptance is given to violence at the hands of 5 years old's yet there’s public outcry over the increased level of violence within our primary education system, children whose ages start as low as 4 and bares little difference to that of a 5-6 year old.

Perhaps most unsettling is that while primary education teachers are privileged to at least a handful of disciplinary measures those within early education are not.
With every new development within early education, it seems child care professionals are losing not only ways to discipline children but essentials measure to protect themselves.

While one can debate the true pain delivered by a child’s force; One cannot debate the increasingly evident impact such force has a child care professionals.
Recent surveys have stated that 1 in 10 child care professional's suffer depression, this is closely followed by fatigue, mental exhaustion, reoccurring illness and injuries.

Speaking to child carers it’s easy to see how the ongoing exposure to workplace violence ad its dismal acknowledgment goes hand in hand with the leading indicators of burn out within the industry.

For the early education industry it’s disappointingly clear that the real and most lasting effects falls far beyond the physical and more disturbingly amongst the emotional and mental health well being of its carers.

It can only be said that one cannot criticize the quality of care, carer give when one is not prepared to debate the kind of care inflicted on the carers themselves.

Recognition of work skills

noreply@blogger.com (Lisa Marie) — Sun, 19 Apr 2009 01:11:00 +0000

For many, Recognition of Prior learning conjures up thoughts of old TAFE assignments and dusting off your transcripts. Until now….

Thanks to providers such as nationally recognized, Childcare Training Professionals. Thousands of child care workers can now look forward to gaining their qualifications. As one of Australia’s most reputable training organizations providing qualifications to those in the industry, Childcare Training Professionals allows industry workers to obtain their goals through Recognition of Work skills.

Often years in the industry amounted to little more than re-occurring back pain. But with the introduction of skills recognition, child care professionals can now gain well deserved credit for their industry dedications.

So just what is skills recognition:

Well we all remember RPL recognition of prior learning. Now rather than focusing on just past training, skills recognition takes on greater more in-depth look at a professionals experience both past and present. This can be seen through workplace assessments, references, testimonials and much more.

After obtaining all the evidence assessors can then determine where credit can be achieved. While providing this evidence is by no means an easy escape. It does pave a way for many child care workers who struggle with other commitments to gain qualifications.

Working both online or via distance education Childcare Training Professionals allows you to study at your own pace from home. No longer do you have to attend lectures, fit in class time or spend good money re-studying what you’re already competent in.
FREE Training to Eligible students!!!

Childcare Training Professionals is also currently offering places to eligible students to complete the Certificate III Children's Services qualification for FREE through the Productivity Places Program, an initiative of the Australian Government.

Childcare Training Professionals offers a range of great courses such as:
Certificate III in Children’s Services
Diploma in Children’s services
PLUS NEW! Certificate III / IV Teachers Assistant (51196)

If you’re already working in the industry there’s no better time or way to gain the qualifications you’ve always wanted. So why not give the team at Childcare Training Professional’s a call today. Their friendly team can assist you to find the right course for you that suits your needs best.

Our team at Living Childcare is confident that you will find what you’re looking for at Childcare Training Professionals.

Contact Childcare Training Professionals today and make sure that this year is the last year you go without your qualifications.

You can check out there website at www.childcaretrainingprofessionals.com.au

News Room

noreply@blogger.com (Lisa Marie) — Sat, 04 Apr 2009 10:06:00 +0000

Today the Child Care industry of the past is long gone; in its place is an ever changing platform for political reform, educational development and social awareness for greater, quality care. Child care professionals once known for their soft hearts are quickly becoming a well known force for change within the industry.

At Living Childcare our team will bring you all the latest news and information as it comes to hand, providing you with all the support and advice you need .
Together as a community of professionals we will bring a much needed untied front to the Childcare Industry.