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 What made you decide to pursue a career in child care?

I love working with children in any capacity, I enjoyed teaching but felt it was becoming more about the paperwork than the children. So my decision to work in childcare means I can spend quality time with children helping them to develop and grow. I get immense satisfaction helping children learn through play and grow as people.

 

Tell me about your best experience with children to date and what made it so enjoyable?

My favourite time of year is Christmas and I loved putting on the nativity play with the children. Co-ordinating 90 4 and 5 years on a stage, acting and singing songs is no mean feat, but the pride I had seeing them all trying their best and singing their hearts out always brought me to tears. Helping give children confidence is one of the most precious things you can do.

 

In your opinion, what makes a good child carer?

Someone reliable and trustworthy, who can slot seamlessly in to your routine. They have to have tons of energy and a great sense of fun to keep children occupied and happy. Someone who listens to the children's wants and needs and provides a safe, secure and happy environment in which they can thrive. 

 

• What are your views on discipline and how do you deal with bad behaviour?

With many years experience working with hundreds of different children I have had to deal with pretty much every kind of behaviour! I always use positive praise and model good behaviour at all times. I use a warning and timeout system with children, in a step by step consistent approach. 1) Explain to child why their behaviour is inappropriate and tell them to stop 2)If the child continues, repeat explanation as to why their behaviour is inappropriate and warn that if it continues they will have to have a 'timeout' 3) place a child on a timeout (place agreed with parents) for a minute for each year of age. When time is up, explain to the child why they had to have a timeout and how they need to behave in future, finish on a positive note with praise and affection. For long term behaviour issues I have a range of strategies that I would be happy to discuss with you.

 

• What are your views on the children watching television?

I will always go with what parents find appropriate and stick to your guidelines, I would never put a child in front of the television just to occupy them. Any programmes or films watched will always have a purpose and be used as a treat.