You know we talk alot about modeling as a powerful tool for shaping children's behavior. We are careful to use good manners, to pick up after ourselves and to treat others with respect. Okay, we TRY to do these things without yelling idiot at the crazy drivers and dumping our purse and stuff on the table at the end of the day. But it got me to thinking... do we use modeling as much as we could?
When was the last time you read a book for yourself while your child could see you do it? We all want kids to grow up to be good readers. Heck, I would be happy if my 10 year old reluctant reader picked up a book right now! I remind myself that it is important that kids see that I ENJOY reading and that reading is something you do not only when you are in school- it is a lifelong thing.
When was the last time you looked something up? When you don't know a word or are confused about a news story, do you let your kids see you research something for your own knowledge? It is good for kids to see that you are not just a teacher but you are a learner too! And that you enjoy finding the answers.
Do you follow your passions? Take time to practice something that you are trying to master? Do you let the kids see you pursue things? And you can't fool kids- you can't turn it into a lesson because they will know you are only doing it for their benefit.
It is hard to remember but modeling is a powerful tool. Kids will become their caregivers in many ways- which includes the good and the bad. Make sure to show the kids thru actions, how you live your best life.
Tuesday, June 29, 2010
Thursday, June 17, 2010
Babysitter VS Nanny
What is the difference really?
Now don't go getting all crazy on me. I KNOW there is a difference. But try to think like an outsider for just a minute. What is the difference when you explain it to strangers?
A nanny is there more hours? A nanny provides educational and developmental activities? A nanny loves her charges? A nanny will do the laundry, dishes and help out with the home?
Face it- some babysitters do this. And these days some babysitters have the formal education that many nannies do not. Babysitters, in these days of economic pressures, are not just the teenager down the street. They are often college students, teachers, and even nannies who want to make some extra cash.
For me it all boils down to intention. Actually, I have to credit Lora Brawley for the word, but it sums up what I was thinking so I think it counts!! Intention is what separates the sitters from the nannies.
When I go to a home to be a nanny- my intention is to care for the whole child. I am planning a well rounded day, providing curriculum, caring for the home and family and the health and safety of the child as well. I intend to be whatever that child needs in order to grow and develop into a productive and happy adult. I plan and come prepared for the day both mentally and physically. I make lists, work out a schedule and communicate with all involved.
When I go to a home to be a babysitter- I make sure that no one goes to the hospital. I make sure everyone is fed and that the rules of the home are not broken. I keep the kids relatively happy and make sure that the kids are not watching Jerry Springer before bedtime. I am basically a cross between a vending machine, policeman and a hall monitor. I don't make a plan (although I may bring some art supplies if I am feeling "crafty") and I don't really prepare other than making sure that the family has cable tv and internet for when the little tykes finally go to bed. Sure I could do more- and I might if I like the kids and if I am in the mood- but the intention is not there.
It is in the intention.
But what do you think?
Now don't go getting all crazy on me. I KNOW there is a difference. But try to think like an outsider for just a minute. What is the difference when you explain it to strangers?
A nanny is there more hours? A nanny provides educational and developmental activities? A nanny loves her charges? A nanny will do the laundry, dishes and help out with the home?
Face it- some babysitters do this. And these days some babysitters have the formal education that many nannies do not. Babysitters, in these days of economic pressures, are not just the teenager down the street. They are often college students, teachers, and even nannies who want to make some extra cash.
For me it all boils down to intention. Actually, I have to credit Lora Brawley for the word, but it sums up what I was thinking so I think it counts!! Intention is what separates the sitters from the nannies.
When I go to a home to be a nanny- my intention is to care for the whole child. I am planning a well rounded day, providing curriculum, caring for the home and family and the health and safety of the child as well. I intend to be whatever that child needs in order to grow and develop into a productive and happy adult. I plan and come prepared for the day both mentally and physically. I make lists, work out a schedule and communicate with all involved.
When I go to a home to be a babysitter- I make sure that no one goes to the hospital. I make sure everyone is fed and that the rules of the home are not broken. I keep the kids relatively happy and make sure that the kids are not watching Jerry Springer before bedtime. I am basically a cross between a vending machine, policeman and a hall monitor. I don't make a plan (although I may bring some art supplies if I am feeling "crafty") and I don't really prepare other than making sure that the family has cable tv and internet for when the little tykes finally go to bed. Sure I could do more- and I might if I like the kids and if I am in the mood- but the intention is not there.
It is in the intention.
But what do you think?
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