I need to interview someone that works in a daycare/childcare center?

*I would first speak with my teaching partner if the problem is with a child. (If the problem is with a co-worker, I would address my co-worker directly first, then take the issue to my supervisor if needed.) If the problem is with the child, I would also address the parents, as they are the child's first teacher. If needed, I would talk with the supervisor or director, and then if the child needs to be referred for evaluation, I would follow the necessary steps for referral including obtaining permission from the parents.

*I communicate DAILY with parents at drop-off and pick-up. Communication is respectful, friendly, and intended to help parents feel that they can come to me easily with any questions or issues they may have. I also communicate MONTHLY with a written newsletter informing them of activities in the classroom and upcoming events. I also use written notes as needed reminding parents of any information they need.

*My favorite thing about my job is definitely the kids! I love to see the lights come on when they learn something new. And I love the hugs and the smiles, especially from the ones who require a lot of extra discipline and love. They need to know what the boundaries and limits are and they show a ton of love to the teacher who will give them loving guidance and structure.

*Least favorite thing. I guess it would be rainy days or days when it's too cold to play outside. The children need to run and play outdoors every day, and it's hard on them when we can't go out, which makes it hard on me.

*I always try to dress comfortably. I want to be prepared to get down on the floor and play, to do yoga with the children every day, to not worry about paint or spaghetti (You know when it's spaghetti day, there is always at least one who will need a hug with spaghetti sauce all over their hands and face!!).

*For me, the only time they're hard to care for is when they're not feeling well. It's hard to give the extra attention they need, and I KNOW they should be home with their parent when they don't feel good. Plus I have the whole rest of the group needing my attention too.

*For me, the best education in this field has been experience. I get the most from seeing other teachers work with the children: ideas, words, thoughts, etc. But I recommend that you plan on getting a 2 year college degree at a minimum. If you go on for a 4 year degree, you will be prepared to get a better paying position in a higher quality program.

*Your grades and GPA don't have a big impact, although my opinion is that anything worth doing is worth doing well. Take pride in your education and your work and try to maintain the best grades that you can. ALWAYS give it your very best effort. You won't regret it.

*I was 42 when I first started working in this field. I had the benefit of having raised my own children which gave me plenty of basic knowledge to start with.

*Too long to include. Will message you this part.

*Skills required: patience, sense of humor, patience, creativity, patience, sensitivity to the needs and interests of the children to plan appropriate lessons and activities, patience, ability to type and spell and correctly phrase words to prepare lessons, newsletters, etc., oh, and did I mention patience? Oh, and energy. LOTS of energy!

*I typically work 8 hours, although my schedule may fluctuate so some days may be 9, some may be 6 or 7.

*At my site, we are tight-knit family. That means we may be mad at each other sometimes, but like most families, we all have each other's back. We watch closely for signs of stress, and we know which children push which teacher's buttons so that we can step in and support each other when needed.

*My advice is always to spend some time volunteering in early childhood settings if you think you are interested in this field. It's hard work and many young people go into it thinking "Oh, I just love kids" without realizing how challenging it can be. Spend some time in more than one classroom at more than one site, because they are all different. It will give you an opportunity to find out whether or not it really is the right career for you.

*Well, in my situation, if I could change something, I would ask for more understanding and appreciation from our administration. I work for a large program, and most of the time I think the "important" people making the decisions have no clue what we do at the classroom level. They need to remember that it's really about the children. Without the children and those who work directly with them, there would be NO PROGRAM. I think they forget that most of the time.

And one last comment, if you go into this field, I hope you love it as much as I do! (Oops, can't message my typical day answer. Maybe you could message me through my profile and I will respond?)