TALKING KINDLY TO CHILDREN WORKS JUST THE SAME AS TALKING unkindly.

DO IT ENOUGH and THEY WILL START TO BELIEVE IT!

In my career working in early years and schools, and while putting my children through the education system, I have seen the good, the bad and the ugly in childcare settings.

I've needed to move my children into new schools and swap nurseries because they weren't thriving, so I empathise with anyone feeling the strain of doing this.

It is worth considering where your child will settle down in the hope you can avoid unnecessary upset and have some peace of mind knowing they are happy and doing well.

Your child's personality

1 

The outgoing child 

When my daughter went to nursery, her outgoing nature was evident through her enjoyment of being with others and her eagerness to learn. Like other outgoing children, he had a natural curiosity and a thirst for knowledge. 

Her playful nature, energy, and enthusiasm made her a fun to be with and always on the go.

She was very bright and sociable and liked having a best friend. Keeping her busy and engaged was essential to her overall well-being, allowing her to channel her energy and maximise her potential.

The small private local nursery setting with a high adult-to-child ratio perfectly fit her. It provided a structured environment where she could thrive and develop her bright, vibrant, and confident personality. 

2

The quiet child

My son, like many young children, had a quiet disposition. His curious, calm, quiet nature made him a pleasure and easy to be with.

His independent and genuinely kind nature meant he enjoyed playing alone and with his close friends.

He was a good listener with a vivid imagination and creative mind. He liked to be active and have time to  His sensitivity was suited to a calm and nurturing setting, where he would have support and attention from caring adults.

Children with a quiet nature can often be overlooked because they aren't demanding attention. So it is important to be in an environment where staff are conscious of this, and the local playgroup gave my son a chance to play freely with friends and be with staff who got to know him well.

3

              The easygoing child               

An easygoing child is typically relaxed, adaptable, and flexible in their approach to situations. They tend to handle change, transitions, and challenges calmly and positively.

They may be more open to new experiences, go with the flow, and find it easier to get along with different people.

It doesn't mean an easy-going child lacks preferences or opinions. Instead, they are more inclined to handle situations with less resistance, stress, or agitation. So it is essential to ensure they have choices and nature their needs. 

The easy-going child may be more likely to fit in a variety of settings, and may enjoy spending time in two places such as a childminders and a playgroup.

These are a few general personality traits that may change over time or depending on the situation.

               

Nothing is more important as a parent than knowing your child is happy throughout the day, no matter what they are doing. 

Although your child's personality traits are so important to consider, you also have to think. about your own needs as well. Other practical questions to ask yourself when choosing childcare include finances, your child's age, hours needed, location and staff and your own situation.

For more tips on choosing childcare, taken from my book "Choosing Childcare," sign up for the newsletter and be the first to get the latest information.

All the best, 

Ruth

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