If you want to be successful in your field, there's nothing like working with children. They're very impressionable. They learn fast and they grow fast.
But most of all, they make you think differently. There's nothing better than helping kids feel safe and loved.
Kids need to have a healthy foundation so they can grow into well-adjusted adults. And sometimes, you need to be there to guide them through a challenging transition.
If you've been a teacher or a nanny, then you already know this. But there's so much to learn from kids about how we feel.
In this post, I want to share some tips that you can use to create a more secure environment for kids and teens.
STEP 1: Find the Right Place
There's nothing like working in a home setting for a lot of kids. It gives them the opportunity to experience being nurtured.
Finding a home where your children will feel comfortable will be one of your first steps. You need a safe space.
You also need to find a place where your children won't have to spend too much time alone. That's why it's important to be honest with them. Let them know that this job requires long hours and that sometimes you'll have to be away from them for days.
STEP 2: Understand Kids' Emotions
The best way to approach kids is to understand how they feel. When they're upset, they may cry. When they're happy, they may jump for joy.
When they feel scared, they may act withdrawn. When they're angry, they may lash out.
All these emotions can be very overwhelming. So try to give them your undivided attention while they express themselves.
STEP 3: Know Their Personality Type
When you become friends with kids, it can be easy to fall into a trap of treating them like their friends. They may feel like they're your friend too.
Don't worry. Kids can tell when you're being phony. And once you've established a rapport with them, don't go overboard with friendliness. They may feel threatened by it.
STEP 4: Be Present
Children need to feel like their parent cares about them and that they can trust them. You need to be present.
It's very tempting to zone out when you're talking with kids. Don't do it. Take breaks when they're distracted or when they interrupt you.
They might start to feel insecure. This can lead them to push you away. Don't take it personally. If you find yourself losing focus or your patience, take a breath and re-engage them.
STEP 5: Show Up
Your child's world has changed since they were babies. You don't have to play the same games anymore.
So don't be shocked if they don't want to hear your voice. In fact, it's common for kids to not want to talk to you.
Sometimes kids might even pretend they're sick so they won't have to