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By
Catherine M. Pruissen
Appreciating
the professionalism of their child care provider does
not come easy for parents. After all, the term "baby-sitter"
has not gone the way of the dinosaur and become extinct
when it comes to child care. Despite the trust parents
put in a facility or caregiver to provide quality
care for their child, caregivers quite often do not
receive the respect they deserve for a job well done.
What can a parent do to show appreciation for their
caregiver? Start by treating your caregiver as a professional
at all times. Imagine what your life would be like
if you did not have the care, nurturing, and dedication
she provides. She is vital part of your family. And
she deserves to be treated with the same professionalism
you give to your dentist, dry cleaner, or hair stylist.
Showing
your appreciation is really quite simple:
- Pay
your caregiver on time and never, ever, grump about
the cost of her services. Can you imagine if your
employer did that to you: "Here's your check,
but gosh I wish I didn't have to pay you so much
for doing such a valuable job."
- Be
prompt picking up your child. It's a long day for
your caregiver just as it is for you. Show respect
for her time.
- Be
cheerful when you drop-off and pick up your child.
Your caregiver has had a long hard day too, and
a cheerful disposition from you can make her day.
- Respect
the daycare's schedule for child's naps, mealtimes,
etc. If you need to talk to your caregiver, ask
her when the best time to call would be, and call
her when you say. She's most likely holding up her
schedule in anticipation of handling your concerns.
Be courteous and on time.
- Say
"thank you" when your caregiver does something
special for you or your child. Don't let anything
go unnoticed. That craft she worked so hard on with
the children for Valentine's day should be acknowledged.
An upbeat "thanks you" says so much. Think
of what you are teaching your child at the same
time. If he/he sees you treating your caregiver
with respect and appreciation, your child will do
the same.
- Respect
your caregiver's policies, especially on issues
of sick child care, etc. You accepted these terms
when you signed the contract with her. If one child
sent home sick saves your child from getting the
virus and you from having to take time off from
work to deal with it, be thankful. When it's your
turn to keep your child home, just deal with it.
Have your backup plan in place so you can act on
it quickly.
- Appreciate
her training and education. It benefits your child
immensely.
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