Child Care Appreciation Day
As a former teacher and new mom, I understand how difficult it can be to help young children navigate their big world. It’s hard learning how to patiently wait for that toy that you want more than anything in this world. It’s hard keeping your hands to yourself when your friends don’t understand how hard you worked on the block tower that they just pushed over. And even I still struggle to remind myself to pause and breathe when I am feeling overwhelmed. Childcare is so much more than just showing your children how to use scissors or tie their shoes. Childcare providers play a crucial role in furthering children’s social and emotional development. Your childcare provider has the unique opportunity to observe your children during challenging situations and help them identify and manage all of those big feelings in a healthy way. These are essential life skills that even some adults are still working on.
I am a firm believer that teaching and working with children is one of the most difficult but most important jobs in the world. I cannot count how many times I came home at the end of the day with dried boogers on my shirt, old food on my pants, and a frazzled state of mind. Regulating your reactions and the reactions of 10-20 small children, all while trying to follow a lesson plan, takes its toll after a while. But that’s the trade off that so many childcare providers make because they know the impact that quality childcare has on a child’s life. They love nurturing your child’s growth and being another person in their life that can cheer them on and help them succeed. It’s hard work that often goes unrecognized.
National Childcare Provider Day is May 9th, and it’s a great opportunity to show appreciation to your provider for all the ways they support your children. But you don’t need to wait for a special day on the calendar to make a grand gesture. I think we are all familiar with the go-to “mug full of candy” or the “Starbucks gift card and hand lotion” options. While I know those are always appreciated, there are other options that do not cost anything but your time. What I always loved more than any gift was the card that came with it. The kind and grateful words of parents who noticed positive changes in their children because of the time I spent with them meant everything to me. Those cards and notes are what I kept with me long after I stopped teaching.
If you notice your provider doing something great, make it a point to let them know. It can be as simple as “I really appreciated the extra time you took at drop off to make sure she was happy and comfortable” or “we’ve been struggling with transitions at home but we have seen such a change since you started using songs and games; he sings them to himself at home whenever we need to get ready to go.” If you can manage just two extra minutes at pick up, I know your provider would love to hear how they’ve made a difference for you and your child. That is the best gift of all.
So, whether it’s a card, a conversation, or a few heartfelt words, remember that your appreciation matters. Don’t wait until May 9th. Every day is a good day to say thank you.
To all the childcare providers out there, thank you. Your work matters, and you are deeply appreciated.
-Stephanie Jones, Referral Specialist
