8 unpopular opinions about childcare
A little different to my usual blogs I know but trust me there is a method to my madness. We are on the cusp of Nanny recognition week (22nd-28th of September 2024) . If you don’t know I am also a nanny and my background for a decade has been childcare. In that time I have seen and learnt a lot. My passion has grown over the years, and one of the reasons why Next Steps Together has been created is because of see that parents need more support that is scientific and proven.
I want to share a few points that firstly may ruffle some feathers but also may give you insight into;1) Why Next Steps Together was created 2) It is okay to parent the way you want to Parent and finally 3) How a childcare provider see childcare in their eyes.
So lets get into it…………………….
1) Buying the latest toy is cool but wont teach your little one to play.
Although we are born to be able play its not always that easy. A lot of playtime is watching others, observing and copying especially when they are younger. This doesn't mean you should spend all your time on the floor playing with them, but when you can spending 5-10 minuets playing tea parties or dinosaurs can make such a difference!
2) Trust Your Mum gut
It's easier said than done especially when you feel over worried, tired and stressed I've learnt throughout the years although I have years of training and experience nothing beats the good old mum gut. You know you r child the most which means if something doesn't feel right shout! Someone will listen. Sometimes you just need reassurance and support but it is also okay to feel like need more support.
3) Every child is unique
You would of heard this quite a bit but I always think it is so important to chat about. Every child is so unique that it actually means the way we parent, teach and play with each child is completely different. This is anything from in a childcare setting to sleep coaching! One box DOES NOT fit all! That's why I fully believe the way support should be given to families should be tailored.
4) It is okay to ask for help
Asking for the right help on your own terms is so important. And the right help is out there you do just have to look for it (annoying I know!) there are people who care and want to love, support and encourage so never fear about reaching out. If you would like a chat even if it is not about sleep or play come book a free call with me today so we can find you the right help!
5) Nursery isn’t the only for of childcare
Nursery is the most common thought when it comes to Childcare but doesn’t mean it is the only choice. I often find Parents not knowing all their choices when it comes to childcare and not knowing the funding/support they can receive doesn’t need to be only used at a nursery. In fact it can be used in other settings too. Childcare isn’t always affordable either so things such as a childminder or a nanny share could take a little load off of you when it comes to paying out.
6) There is most likely more than one solution
We look at Parenting, childcare and sleep etc and see that sometimes we are more pushed to do one option in fact there are many options to Parent, put your child to sleep and what childcare you choose. And as well with whatever choice you make there is usually not a wrong or right answer which means even if there is someone around you pushing for you to choose a certain way to parent doesn’t mean that it will be right for you and your family. Remember trust your gut. Their are many options and solutions that could work for you.
7) Learning through play is a great way to help little one with life skills
Learning through play is one of the most important things you can promote in your little ones life. AND it doesn’t have to be aesthetic. Play looks different everyday. It is a way to show little ones emotions, how to share and even brush your teeth (recently did this with a little one). Play is great for also you as a adult to decompress and spend time with little one. It actually can be a lot of fun!
And Finally………………..
Looking after you child is a honour
There is nothing quite like the feeling of being trusted to look after your most precious little humans. No matter if that's nannying or consulting being trusted with their safety, development and support is a honour.
