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Date: 6/16/2003 9:42:00 PM
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Author:
Infant teacher
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Subject:infants in care
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I know there are situations where infants must be in child care - but there are many who are in care but not for financial reasons. Just thought I'd throw this out - do you think infants should be in child care?
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Date: 6/17/2003 8:41:00 AM
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Author:
me
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Subject:its ok, if you have to do it...
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it's ok, if you have to do it
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Date: 6/17/2003 12:37:00 PM
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Author:
Shirley
(libra2u_2000@yahoo.com)
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Subject:Possibly
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I feel it depends on the family's personal situation. I teach in an Early Head Start classroom and we recently enrolled a 2-month-old. We feel that because of the tremendous lack of support in the family and the issues that the baby's parents are working on, our center is the best place for her. She is guaranteed one-on-one time and stimulation and caring. Our class is only open four days a week for four hours daily so the length of time is ideal as well. Mom gets some respite (which every new mom needs for her samity) and baby gets an opportunity for optimal development.
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Date: 6/17/2003 2:31:00 PM
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Author:
Barb
(bjmartin@computer-connection.net)
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Subject:Infants in daycare
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Certainly, in a perfect world, every child would be home with an adult family member educated in child development and committed to helping him develope to his full potential. Unfortunately, this is an impossibility for some families (and an inconvenience for others). The best alternative, I feel, is a center dedicated to giving the child and the family the best start possible. It would be great if parents could afford to stay home for the first year, but for most that's not an option. my center does primary care, so an infant bonds closely to a caregiver, or team of 2 caregivers. I think this is an excellent substitute.
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Date: 6/26/2003 9:25:00 AM
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Author:
Daycare Provider
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Subject:Infants in childcare
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I work with infants and toddlers, but in most cases I would talk myself out of a job because I think that infants do not need to be in a group situation. Do I think it is "bad" for infants? Not if you can find good, quality care (and that can be a problem). But I think that the best care is one-on-one whenever possible.
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Date: 11/16/2006 10:10:00 AM
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Author:
Emilia
(emilia1962@yahoo.com)
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Subject:One -on- One for infants, one year old and young toddler
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Dear Daycare Provider,
I agree with your suggestions.
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Date: 7/1/2003 12:26:00 PM
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Author:
bobbi
(bigddog803@go.com)
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Subject:qualified?
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Ohio you must have a HS diploma or GED, and 12 hours training (1st aid, child abuse recog. and communicable disease recognition) to be a 'state qualified trained teacher'. of course, anyone with a GED and no training can step into a baby room (or other class) and be called a teacher. parents think 'state qualified' means trained, like the regualr school teachers. right. for near minumum wage? you get a body for the day, and if you are lucky your child gets a caring provider for the whole day. usually a baby will have three to five caregivers through a 10 hr day. to many transitions, too many new faces, babies need to be at home with mom (or dad) for the first couple of years, not in day care centers.
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Date: 1/28/2007 7:52:00 PM
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Author:
Z
(ladyzaneta@earthlink.net)
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Subject:qualified?, Yes I am even without a B.A. or M.A.
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As an early child care teacher I disagree with your statement. In my center there is a great amount of stability. The way you paint daycare centers in your discription makes early child care teachers seem like idiots and I take offense. I do not have a bachelors degree in the field, but that does not in any way mean I do not know what I am doing. I speak for many providers out there. I create thought out lesson plans with age appropriate activities and I care very much for every child those within my class and out. I don't know what sad daycare center you have been in or seen but my advice is that you take a better look. And if you do feel that in OHIO the teachers should have more than an high school diploma talk to your state government officials and work on the issue.
z
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Date: 1/29/2007 11:11:00 AM
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Author:
Rudy
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Subject:Day care
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I totally agree with you. I do have a Bachelors degree in ECE and work in a pre k classroom. I did work in Day care for 20 yrs before that. You are correct in daying that you do not have to have a degree to know what you are doing. A degree is a piece of paper some people have them and do Not know what THEY are doing. Being in the classroom and working in the day cares are where you get the experience.
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Date: 1/29/2007 6:06:00 PM
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Author:
BobbiAnn
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Subject:too much junk out there!
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http://clinton4.nara.gov/WH/EOP/CEA/html/childcare.html
here is a link citing a government report on the poor quality of care for babies and toddlers. Three out of four not meeting standards mean alot of junk is out there. Even well-meaning staff actually might not meet standards. They just don't know better do to lack of training. I do agree that there are junk teachers with degrees, too. However, when I started my career in childcare I was shocked at what I found out there:
Childtime child Care (NAEYC center), the director was out, I spoke to an 'woman in the baby room' Can I help you? She went on to say how she hated babies and they stuck her in there in hopes she would quit.
A mom-n-pop center: Babies sleeping in cribs w/o sheets. the teacher said they forgot to do laundry.
A 24hr center: sink RIPPED OUT of the WALL! in preK room. teachers said kids climbed on the sink and it fell out. It was laying there broken on the floor. 2nd interview (for an asst director job, 1 wk later) broken sink STILL in the corner on class bathroom floor.
YMCA: Babies left unattended in highchairs, as teacher left area to get supplies. teacher said they were OK since they were belted in. Meals were dumped on the highchiair trays (and the meal was beef stew) No utensils, no plates for these 1 yr olds.
Childtime: My god-daughter at age 2 had 6 caregivers during her day, anyone from cook to teacher. and when I dropped her off first, then her sister, I passed her room to see an unfamiliar face ( a new teacher again). Kayla was standing on the high chair tray. The teacher said it was MY responsibility to stop her from climbing on the highchair. and by the way (she said), it wasn't her class. she was only in the room till the regular teachers came in at 8:30. (I dropped her off at 8) so those weren't her kids to care for. Duh! You are assigned to the room till 8:30! (She didn't last long)
I feel for any parent who cannot see what is going on 'behind closed doors'. I fortunately found a teaching position in a professional high-quality school. And my god-children no longer need day care.
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Date: 1/30/2007 2:45:00 AM
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Author:
mosquito - from Australia
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Subject:Wow! BobbiAnn - thats really scary! I do...
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Wow! BobbiAnn - that's really scary! I don't know what to say - I'm just shocked! ................
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Date: 1/30/2007 8:37:00 AM
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Author:
Barbara
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Subject:I agree. A piece of paper (degree) does...
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I agree. A piece of paper (degree) does not automatically make a person a good teacher. On the job training, under a mentor, is very helpful in making a good teacher. I also think a person's personality is a key. Some people are just meant to work with children.
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Date: 3/8/2007 6:29:00 AM
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Author:
bLozier
(adventureinlearn@aol.com)
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Subject:Infants in Child Care
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I agree with Z. My childcare staff is made up of loving, reliable, gentle and patient women -- mothers of their own children -- who, like you, do not have college backgrounds, yet they treat these children with kindness, warmth, optimum care and genuine affection. Unfortunately, it is also true that there are too many very poor childcare centers which cause people to fear putting their infants or any other age child in daycare. While I, as owner, am college educated, I believe that it is my and my staff's innate and natural mothering feelings and skills that make us fantastic care providers. The education more adds curriculum-planning skills, but the quality of care is based on our personalities and backgrounds rather than college. There are college-educated women who won't take good care of their own children, let alone someone else's! I also think that, if a child must go into a childcare home or center, waiting too long is hard on the child. I recommend putting them in by 18 months if they have to eventually go, so that they are not afraid and are comfortable being around other adults and children before the age of two years. My experience has proven this to be most conducive to a smooth adjustment period. I meet many stay-at-home children, non-socialized, who are maladjusted, whiney, and delayed in their development. Daycare centers offer wonderful skills and experiences to children WHEN THEY ARE HEALTHY, LOVING CENTERS. God bless all who take care of children. I agree with you, Z.
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Date: 3/8/2007 10:24:00 AM
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Author:
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Subject:infant care
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what about hiring loving men to care for babies and toddlers? why only women can be the 'nurturers'. hmmm, could the pay and lack of benefits be a factor? meaning women deserve to paid such low pay ? so much for empowering women to go to work.
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Date: 7/7/2003 5:25:00 PM
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Author:
Former Teacher and New Mother
(mnrmama@hotmail.com)
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Subject:Infants in Child Care
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No, I do not think infants should be in child care. Women were physically and mentally CREATED to give tender loving care to their babies at home. If an infant has to be put in child care because there is no one else to watch him/her then I can see where the choice to make a living to support the child would be the exception. On the other hand, if there is a situation where there is a father/husband who works and it's is a matter of the "means" the couple is living within, then the couple should decide to lower their financial status in order to have the mother be able to stay at home with the child. We changed the way we spent in order for us to do this. I would advise the same thing to other mothers. They grow up so fast and they NEED every bit of early developement to be with the mother, NOT a stranger. I found a way to work at home and help support our family. If you would like info on that route, email me and I would be glad to give you info on how you could do the same.
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Date: 8/2/2003 3:09:00 AM
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Author:
Brenda Nixon
(parentpwr1@juno.com)
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Subject:Infants in childcare?
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If a financial necessity or a case where the infant is
safer outside the homelife (some court cases), then OK. Otherwise, NO WAY. Ideally infants need to be in the familiar home with a predictable routine. Bonding occurs
in the first year but most intensely in the first 6 months so it is critical that parents give their tot as much one-on-one time as possible. Visit me at www.parentpwr.com
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Date: 8/6/2003 9:49:00 AM
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Author:
Early Childhood Educator
(tamalinlea@hotmail.com)
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Subject:Infants in day care settings
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Absolutely Not! Infants require a huge amount of patience and love neither of which they could ever get enough of in a day care setting.
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Date: 1/7/2006 4:15:00 PM
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Author:
Texana
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Subject:Absolutely not
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Infants need much more individual attention than they get in the typical daycare setting. The only time I would think it was even ok is if the child would have the same caregiver every single day for the entire year, and I know that doesn't happen at my center.
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Date: 8/5/2003 8:49:00 AM
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Author:
Lisa McGee
(lisamcgee@sbcglobal.net)
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Subject:Infants in childcare
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I think that if the family does not finacially require two parents to work, then it is very selfish to choose working for our own personal satifaction over the child(ren) involved.
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Date: 6/17/2003 8:10:00 PM
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Author:
me #2
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Subject:Infants in childcare
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I do think it would be great if all infants could be home with parents, I do agree in some situations they are better off with caring people who work in childcare. But I have worked in a center where child to staff ratio was followed to the state max, and even though I loved each and every one of the babies, basic care was all any of us had time to give. We would sing and read to them and rock them to sleep.But there was very little time to just snuggle and hold each child as much as they all need. And in some private centers, the funding is not there for low child to staff ratio or owners are more worried about money than the needs of the children they care for. In a perfect world the centers these children are taken to are like yours Barb, where you care for and nurture the children and provide more than basic care. I am blessed i get to stay home with my 5 month old, but because of my experience I do know what to look for in a child care center and some parents go into in not knowing what to look for.
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Date: 8/1/2003 8:10:00 AM
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Author:
Courtney
(Girl4God4685@aol.com)
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Subject:Infants in Child Care
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I think it depends on the family situation. If both mom and dad work then they should consider it. Personally, I work in a day care and all of the special developmental moments is hard if the child does it in day care and not at home. I guess you just need a good relationship with the parents and go from there. But for some it feels like "throwing" their child in day just because but lets face it day care isnt cheap so I would hope its because you really need it. But thats just my opinion.
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Date: 6/18/2003 8:35:00 AM
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Author:
bobbi
(bigddog803@go.com)
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Subject:infant care
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sadly, stats show that only ONE out of four centers provide optimal care for a baby's emotional, physical, and social development. That means 75% of babies are receiving basic to poor care. I agree with me#2, if parents really knew, I bet many would find a way to stay home. I visited a center that had 20 babies to one room, with 5 caregivers. Mobile kids on one side, quiet ones on the other. It looked like a zoo. Noisy. Aggressive behaviors showing, just to compete for affection from a caregiver. Caregivers showing favorites for quieter babies, but stressed dealing with fussy ones. Ratio was posted as 1-4, but reality was they scheduled 5 so there would always be four in the room while one took a break. And then you have a min. of 50% staff turnover in most enters every year. No consistency amongst caregivers. Many moms have no choice, but many make the choice to work. I see some of these babies in day care 10 hours or more a day. We have a 24-hr center in our area, and they allow care for up to 12 hours! (evening into night shifts). And you tell me this baby will be OK?? The last center I worked at parents chose to work, instead of getting starter stuff like our parents did, then move up, they all want the best and fancy now. And paying for child care was a bottom priority, get the care for the cheapest. I was glad to read in the newspaper that many moms are choosing to stay-at-home with their babies. A trend long overdue.
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Date: 6/26/2003 7:36:00 PM
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Author:
Ruthann
(sofbalgirl28@yahoo.com)
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Subject:infant care
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This center should have been reported. There is no excuse for a center to not be following the rules.
Babies need to be able to crawl around on the floor with the other babies.
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Date: 6/26/2003 7:39:00 PM
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Author:
Ruthann
(sofbalgirl28@yahoo.com)
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Subject:infants in groups.
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I was wondering why you feel infants should not be in groups? I worked in a center where we had the infants on the floor and they would crawl around with the other infants. In one instance one infant did something and another infant laughed.This continued back and forth for a few minutes. There was some vital infant interaction going on that was fun to watch.
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Date: 7/30/2003 12:59:00 PM
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Author:
Ll
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Subject:What she described is perfectly legal in...
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What she described is perfectly legal in many states.
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Date: 6/27/2003 3:04:00 PM
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Author:
Daycare Provider
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Subject:My reason is not because of the infants ...
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My reason is not because of the infants being in a group (I have been working with infants for awhile now and I see so much of what you were describing), I just feel like infants need a lot of one on one interaction, expecially when they are very young, and that is very hard to do in a group. I think that as infants this one-on-one interaction is more important than social interaction with other infants.
I know there are a lot of very good caregivers that do an awesome job and manage to spend quality time with the infants in their care, but I also know from my observations at several centers that a lot of caregivers meet the very basic needs of food and diapers and do not spend much time interacting with the infants. At one of my observations, there were 8 infants in swings, exersaucers, bouncy chairs and high-chairs during my entire 2 hours and the only time anyone talked to them was when they fussed, and then it was to tell them "Oh, you're fine, you just need to wait your turn". At another observation, the lead teacher very rarely talked to the infants, and smiled even less! She just walked around and silently did what was necessary.
I also know that because of financial reason, there tends to be too many infants assigned to one person (or they shift them to too many people and they do not develop the attachments that are so important) and that person must spend the entire day on the routine caregiving and never get a chance to just relax and spend time with any of the infants.
I also know from personal experience where I have been that a lot of centers hire caregivers with no experience or education. A lot of people think that it would be "fun" to spend the day "rocking babies", and when they find out how much "work" is involved they leave.
I realize there are places that do not operate this way, but I see it a lot.
That is why I do not like group care for infants. Do I have any answers to these problems? Yes, but financially no one can afford what it takes to solve these problems: more staff training, lower staff/child ratios, higher pay to prevent turnover.
I realize the need for daycare and, as I said, I do not think it is damaging, but I think that caregivers and parents need to realize the disadvantages (every situation has pros and cons) and do what it takes to make sure that they spend some extra time with these infants and make sure they know what to look for in a childcare setting. Just like a parent who keeps an infant home all of the time needs to make sure they are getting them out into social situations.
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Date: 6/27/2003 3:27:00 PM
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Author:
BETH
(MCCKIDS@STELLARNET.COM)
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Subject:INFANTS IN GROUPS
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I am a director of a center that serves children from birth to 12 years old. Most of our infants have either a brother or sister that also attend our toddler or pre-school programs. We make it a point to have our teachers and caregiver know each families individual needs to insure comfort for children, parents and staff. Infants are
cared for in a family like setting, allowing other members of their family to visist and be a part of their daily care and development. We serve all family make-ups, and have several singel parent families, these parent need to work, be most of all they need to know their children are being love, care for and nurtured by a staff that is not just giving care but is caring. I have seen the children, parent and staff form lasting relationships with the people they meet at our center.
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Date: 6/30/2003 3:27:00 PM
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Author:
Ruthann
(sofbalgirl28@yahoo.com)
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Subject:Infants
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These situations you spoke about need to be reported. If there are too many infants in a class, staff is not properly trained, these are licensing violations and these places could be shut down if reported until they improve the situation. We are the ones who have to advocate for the children and if these places are not up to standards it is our place to report it or we are in violation with them.
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Date: 6/27/2003 8:37:00 PM
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Author:
Daycare Provider
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Subject:That is great! It would make a world of...
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That is great! It would make a world of difference if every center and every caregiver felt that way! I love working with infants and toddlers and it is something that I will probably be involved in for the rest of my life, and trying to be a part of the solution to poor childcare is one of my goals. Every child deserves a safe, loving environment whether it is at home or daycare.
Years ago I had someone tell me that because we opened a daycare we were just giving women "permission to dump their kids". I told the person that she was very blind (she "dumped" her kids at daycare a few years later when she was "tired of doing the mommy thing", so go figure) if she did not realize that their was a real need for childcare and the parents at our center would not just quit their jobs and stay home if we closed our doors. There are people that do not have a choice about working and they need quality care for their children.
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Date: 7/1/2003 10:14:00 AM
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Author:
Me#2
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Subject:I agree with Daycare Provider,in alot of...
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I agree with Daycare Provider,in alot of these situations there are no State Regs. being broken. The child care center I spoke of before, we were all educated, it did not make a diffrence when there are 18 babies and 3 teachers(My state, AR, has a 6:1 infant staff ratio. We spoke to our dirctor about this, and bottom line, it was all about the money.We did not mistreat the children, we loved them all, we just did not have time to nurture them the way all babies need to be. I do think that babies do not belong in a group situation,not at 6wks old. And there were times we would have 4 or more that age or close to it. I do think (as i said above)that a center with small child to staff ratio, can be a good thing, but quality care is unfortunately, not the norm. I am an advocate for children and better care, but in these cases you either stay and fight a losing battle or go to another center that is better quality. But until our State Regs,and officals make this (child care quality)a priority, and/or parents are better educated on what to look for, this wiil not change. Centers are looking at how to make more money and parents are looking for the cheapest care.
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Date: 6/30/2003 7:50:00 PM
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Author:
bobbi
(bigddog803@go.com)
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Subject:reporting poor care
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here in Ohio, it's like pulling teeth to get a center closed, it's a process that can take 6 months. one 24-hr center had 10 babies/ 1 teacher at night frequently, a broken sink in the pre-K bathroom (the sink was cracked in half, and duct-taped), remodeling debris strewn throughout the center, poor staffing. director quit. it took 6 months to shut it down. two problems here, first parents desparate for any care, and a state that moves as fast as a snail to shut problem sites down. One YMCA site has received numerous complaints regarding infant care (that could jepordize a baby's health or life). the solution? they fire the teacher, or reassign her to another class. then, a couple months later they are back at the same issues. issues that could be fixed by management (new room design) or two staff in the room, both cost money and cut profit. and there's the problem, profit. infant care is not profitable, unless you cut corners. and many centers do just that.
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Date: 6/30/2003 9:21:00 PM
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Author:
Daycare Provider
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Subject:The situations I observed could not be r...
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The situations I observed could not be reported. Even though I disagreed with the way the things were being handled, they were not against the requirements of our state. In our state ratios for infants are 4 to 1, and toddlers are 5 to 1. If one person ends up with 4 very young infants in their care (2 of them 5 months, 1 of them 4 months and the other 6 weeks, this was an actual case) that person will have a hard time giving those children what they truly need. In this group 3 of them were very difficult to get to sleep and the fourth could wake the dead (and anyone who finally fell asleep) with her scream. As for the education, our state requires a high school diploma and then attendance of workshops, reading current literature, and on-the-job training. You do not get all of the training you need at a workshop or by reading. On the job training is great, if the trainer is qualified.
In the one scenario, there were 8 babies all in seats of some kind and there were 3 adults. They were not over ratio and there is no law about putting babies in "containers".
In the other case, the caregiver did not talk or smile much, but that is something else that you just can't report.
I see and have seen many things I disagree with, but others think is okay. But, in these situations reporting would not do anything. Most of these things could be changed the instant someone walks in--I worked with a lady that was completely different when parents or someone in authority was in the room and when she was alone. The parents thought she was great. But in reality she was cruel, verbally abusive, intimidating, --and it took me over 2 years to convince others, finally she was sent packing. But not until she had worked with entirely too many children (one child still talks about her "rules" after 3 years and she is only 5). The scary thing is: our state gave her a liscense for home day care AND she is a foster mother! And I know that one of the people who filled out a questionnaire about her for the foster care system was the one who finally got her fired, so I know she didn't give her a glowing review.
Like I said before, I know that there are many great places, and I do my best to make my room great, but we still have a long way to go.
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Date: 7/2/2003 4:37:00 AM
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Author:
Daycare Provider
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Subject:State ratios
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I think a 6:1 ratio is crazy! I love my job. I love "my" babies. But if I were the primary caregiver for 6 at once I think I would lose my mind!
I think about all of the help that is given to parents that have twins, triplets or more, but then people don't think twice about dropping their infant with a caregiver who already has 3 or 4 infants to care for. I realize that multiple births mean all the same age, but there have been more than once in our center that we have 3 or 4 the same age. People would not have dreamed of telling the parents of quints "Oh, you will be fine, a lot of states say 1 person can care for 5!"
I just pray that people will see what is going on and put their children over the all mighty dollar. The first post talked about people working that do not need to--I realize that is everyones personal business, but if they only realized how fast their babies were going to grow up and be gone. Ten years from now it won't matter what brand of clothes they wore (they will be out of style) or what kind of car they bought (it will be old and rusty) or how many nice restaurants they went to (the food will have done it damage to arteries and hips) but the TIME they invested in their children will never be a waste, they will have the memories of watching them grow and the relationship that they developed. We had a parent who got off at noon everyday, but never picked up her infant until around 5:30 everyday--she said he was high-maintenance (he was the sweetest, most lovable, smart, happy baby we had) and she could not get her housework and shopping done! Then he stayed with a sitter 3 or 4 nights a week so she could spend time with her husband. It was sad to see...he missed her soooo much, he would only sleep at night if he was touching her, I think he knew that was the only time he had with her and he wouldn't let her go.
I think a lot of parents truly think that since they are infants they do not know very much and they will never remember being in daycare so it won't matter. I, personally, can remember the daycare I went to when I was 2 years old--the most vivid memory: I laughed when a child wet the bed at nap and the caregiver rubbed my nose in the urine! My mom pulled me out immediately, but I am 36 and still remember how that felt physically and emotionally!
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Date: 7/1/2003 8:38:00 PM
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Author:
Ruthann
(sofbalgirl28@yahoo.com)
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Subject:qualified
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These are very unfortinate situations, and scary also. In Illinois you have to have 18 hrs in Child Dev to be teacher and they prefer 2 yrs of college. It is sad to think that money is more omportant then children.
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Date: 7/5/2003 12:47:00 PM
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Author:
daycare provider
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Subject:I think it is great to have indans in a ...
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I think it is great to have indans in a chilcare center They are great and really seem to bond with you
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Date: 7/7/2003 7:24:00 PM
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Author:
bobbi
(bigddog803@go.com)
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Subject:WMs to SAHMS
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figure it out. after spending 150 a week or more for baby care, then your gas to go to work, then your career clothes, a higher car payment for a decent car, you are tired so you get convience foods/take-out/dine-out more often. what are you really taking home ?? then there's higher taxes, maybe you 'treat' yourself to a cleaning service to clean your house, you have dry cleaning bills for those career clothes, more car repairs to a car that needs fixed more due to wear, marital stress due to too many roles taken on. is it worth it ??? I can't remember the magazine, either Money or Forbes, they did a breakdown, and the average mom made about $3000 to $8000 a year after expenses. Leave your baby 45-55 hours a week with strangers to make $3000 ????? $8000 ????? NOT WORTH IT! there are plenty of ways to cut back, and wait till the gift you have been given grows up, time goes fast. enjoy those babies! I did, and now there are out of my home, and now I have plenty of time and cash for me and the husband ;) we never 'went without'. we found the bargains, bought a starter home (small, easy to clean, and low utility bills), bought good dependable used cars. went on 'discover' vacations about four times a year. all on one income.
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Date: 7/29/2003 3:02:00 PM
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Author:
Angela Cook
(lenandang@tcworks.net)
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Subject:What happened to rearing your own children?
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What ever happened to rearing your own children. I had a mom who stayed at home with myself and my elder brother and then went back to work with my 2 younger sisters. I became "Minni Mommy", and she became "part-time Mommy". My sisters where so drasticly different in both learning abilities, bonding issues and over all behavior problems, that I flat out will not work outside of the home.
I have a Toddler's Church ministry at our church where we teach 2-schoolage and a Homemaker's For Christ ministry for stay at home moms. I will be staying at home even after my son goes to school next year. Yeah, the $$$$ is tempteing, but the welfare of my family is more important! Not to mention God gave me a child to raise, not pass off for someone else to raise. We are not wealthy by any means!!!! TRUST ME! We just downsized, do without more and get less! I would rather be happy than rich, and I would rather enjoy my child than have guilt orhave the possibility that one day my child may be talking about me on some shrinks couch! And trust me if you do it right, like God intended, than you will have more than enough to do at home! I praise God for my job as a Homemaker and am darn proud to be one, no matter what society says about it!
-Angela M. Cook <><
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Date: 11/20/2004 12:07:00 PM
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Author:
Margarita
(Menri17024@aol.com)
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Subject:Work at home
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Hi,
I am the mother of 3 children ages 6yrs, 2 yrs and 3 months. I have visited 10 day care centers only two of which seem to provide appropriate care for infants. It is a night mare finding good child care. I would like more information on working from home.
Thank you for your time and help.
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Date: 7/12/2003 9:39:00 AM
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Author:
Miss Jessie
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Subject:I think there are several centers out th...
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I think there are several centers out there that are capable of handling infant classes.
My center has a ratio of 1:5 or 2:12. We give the infants plenty of one on one affection and interaction. We use a lot of everyday routines to interact with the babies. instead of 'just feeding' them, we sing to them and talk to them while we feed. instead of "just changing" them, we take time to play a little while they're on the changing table- tickling, pee-a-boo, this little piggie etc... In addition, we have lesson plans which require one on one activities for music, art, tactile and motor development. I'm not bragging about my center, I'm pointing out that centers with large student:teacher ratios can still be nurturing and stimulating if the situation is handled correctly and the teachers are able to use everyday routines to effectively establish learning situations.
I am very aware that there are really awful infant daycares out there- I've worked at some of them until I realized I couldn't change the way things are run at these types of centers. As was said above, parents need to get wise about their childcare options. I plan on being a working mother, when the time comes, and I feel absolutely blessed to have the knowlede necessary to select the optimal daycare facility.
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Date: 7/18/2003 2:37:00 PM
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Author:
home daycare provider
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Subject:to many babies
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I like what one of you said about the time going to fast I was an assitant director when I had my 1st baby I stayed at the center and he went with me even though i was at the center I still fill like I missed the first 6months of his life I regret every second of it now I quit when he was 6motnhs to stay home and now have a daughter who is 1 year and have been blessed to be with her I started my own daycare when she was 9months I only care for infants and toddlers I think infants do better in homedaycare it is more relaxing and there does seem to be more time for each child big centers are just like moving the children along the line there is very little time for just playing unless you have extra hands but most owners are greedy and do not hire extra hands they max out as much as possible
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Date: 7/30/2003 1:05:00 PM
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Author:
Laura
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Subject:How could you possibly give one to one a...
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How could you possibly give one to one attention to five infants at the same time. That's ridiculous! Every mother and child care employee should read Our Babies OurSelves by Meredith Small. I heard her speak and read her book - it is full of research from an anthropological perspective why babies must be at home with mom - sleep with mom - breastfed as long as possible. It's amazing! and really makes you think. I am a trainer and have been in hundreds of centers - those include naeyc accredidated centers. I have never seen ONE that had good quality infant care. Kids need time and attention from mom and dad.
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Date: 7/31/2003 10:22:00 PM
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Author:
Daycare Provider
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Subject:ratios
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With a ratio of 1:5 and 2:12 you might be able to give the infants some one on one attention, but not plenty. I have been there--I worked in a center that had a habit of putting too many infants in one room and even though I loved them with all my heart and worked my tail off, they didn't get "plenty" of attention. To be honest, in most cases, the fussy or demanding infants get the majority of the attention and the easy-going and quiet babies get very little.
I worked in daycare and it is hard to hear people put down your profession, but God did not intend for infants and toddlers to be in groups or every mother would have multiples. Infants need relaxed time with someone who can focus completely on them for no reason other than because they are loved--and that is hard when there are 4 or 5 other infants in the same room. In group care settings most of the interaction with infants is because of an immediate need and if they do not have a need they are left in a swing or exersaucer or bouncy chair until they have a need. I loved my job and my babies, but there is a better way, and I would have talked myself out of a job if I could have convinced some of the mothers (the ones that had a choice) what they were missing.
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Date: 7/29/2003 7:43:00 PM
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Author:
Daycare Provider
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Subject: I just quit my daycare job after 6 yea...
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I just quit my daycare job after 6 years. I miss "my babies" terribly, but I know that I made the right choice. I did not go to work until my 3rd child was 3 and all of my children went with me to the private school where I taught infants - preschoolers (not at the same time). I was in the same building as my children but a few months ago I realized that I had missed so much of the past 6 years with my children. I looked at them and wondered where the time had gone. I wish I would have worked less and been with them (mentally and physically) more!
Working with children is all consuming. I was passionate about my job and now I feel like I put all of my energy into raising other peoples children and missed out on a lot. I loved my job--I do not think that a person should work with children unless they love it--but I intend to focus on my own children for awhile.
Children grow up fast--18 or 19 years and they will be grown and gone. In the big picture of life we really do not get a lot of time with them in our homes. When you work full-time, take care of a house and all of the requirements of a family, you really do not get a lot of time to focus on the most important things: people. You can make money, buy things and go places now or later, but you can only see your baby take his first step once, later it will be too late.
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Date: 10/17/2004 3:47:00 PM
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Author:
Barb
(Jesuslover25@aol.com)
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Subject:I feel the same way you do about big cen...
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I feel the same way you do about big centers , parents seem to think bigger is better they think because they a naeyc certified and have other types of certification that they are much better than home daycare. I wish that parent understood that bigger isn't better.
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Date: 10/17/2004 3:50:00 PM
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Author:
Barb
(Jesuslover25@aol.com)
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Subject:I feel the same way you do about big cen...
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I feel the same way you do about big centers , parents seem to think bigger is better they think because they a naeyc certified and have other types of certification that they are much better than home daycare. I wish that parent understood that bigger isn't better.
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Date: 7/29/2003 7:35:00 PM
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Author:
Kami Ricks
(mnrmama@hotmail.com)
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Subject:Work and stay home with your babies!
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I feel very strongly about staying home with my children. It is very common today to be a working mother, but I find that the best job in the world is being there to watch my daughter grow, learn, change, and know I am there for her! She relies on me with total faith. That means everything to me! I want to be the one to teach her my values, how to love Jesus with all her heart, that we will always love her no matter what, etc. I feel that it is my ministry and duty to be home with her. But so many people today have a hard time making ends meet to the point where Mom (or Dad) can stay at home. We do it, but it is not easy! My husband works very hard! But I also have found a wonderful, well-recognized company with excellent family values that offers a way for parents to start a home business and earn a part-time or full-time income from home, with their kids by their side. I love my at-home work! I work my schedule around my daughter's, so I am still a FULL-TIME mom! We eventually hope to replace my husband's income, in possibly as short a time as a year, so that we can both be home with our children. They are our first priority before God! If you feel strongly about being home with your children, but find the financial aspects are a challenge, I would love to share my success with you! It really does work! You will love it, too!
Kami Ricks
www.WorkAtHomeMama.com
mnrmama@hotmail.com
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Date: 9/1/2004 9:52:00 AM
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Author:
sandra kirby
(Gettohick1@aol.com)
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Subject:work at home mama
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i would like some information for working at home because my hrs at work have been cut in half and im also raising my 3 yr. old grandson. i need all the help i can get!
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Date: 9/1/2004 9:52:00 AM
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Author:
sandra kirby
(Gettohick1@aol.com)
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Subject:work at home mama
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i would like some information for working at home because my hrs at work have been cut in half and im also raising my 3 yr. old grandson. i need all the help i can get!
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Date: 7/31/2003 3:38:00 AM
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Author:
Barb
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Subject:The world is not a perfect place. If it ...
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The world is not a perfect place. If it were, babies COULD stay at home with loving, educated, committed parents. My center, for one, DOES provide quality care. We use primary care from birth-2. Not all parents are as dedicated as you would like them to be. I would rather have a child exposed to the environment we provide than parked in front of a tv all day because parents are too busy to interact with them. How do parents of twins or triplets manage 1-1 time with their babies? It can be done, and it IS in my center!
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Date: 1/11/2006 10:29:00 PM
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Author:
Arkana
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Subject:I have never seen one either. Because I...
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I have never seen one either. Because I work in the field, a lot of people ask me if I know a quality daycare for their baby...I tell them "there is no such thing"
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Date: 7/31/2003 9:22:00 PM
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Author:
Angela Cook
(lenandang@tcworks.net)
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Subject:I love my child more than money!
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Obviously you must work outside of the home(bbprek). However I am sorryto here you say that, "I know that God agrreed with hard work", because God does expect hard work, and the home is were he intended for a woman to do the mojority of her work, if she has children, that why he gave them to you! I am not down on womens lib, I was raised by one of the hardest core libers I know! And you know what, she regrets not staying home with my younger sisters now in her older age. She said she fell into the same old trap,of thinking working gives her something that she couldn't get at home. Money, respect, social communication and sanity! However, she missed out on, first steps, cute sayings, time that she can never get back, and a great majority of their lives. We are all grown with families of our own now! Your kids are only little ONCE! You can ALWAYS work! Oh and I worked 7 1/2 years prior to this decision to stay at home, it is not like I am lazy, some FULL TIME MOMMIES work harder than some career women I know! And I learned how to give my son what he needs...A mother not a daycare provider or someone else he might call MOM, a mother who is always there for him 24/7 not before 8 and after 5 untill you put them to sleep. How many hours is that??? Not enough! Enjoying your kids while they are little is worth more than money. I can understand if you don't have a spouse, why one must work! But for someone to say that they have to work in order to provide for their kids the finer things in life so to speak...get real! We are the poorest of the poor and we get by, because God provides, where He guides. And He is the one who told me to stay at home. If people have a problem with that...take it up with Him!
Sorry, if this offends you, I understand it is your life and your money and your kids...but I frankly am sick and tired of other women nagging me that I am lazy, and I need to work or I NEED more material things for my kid! Especialy when I am within God's will for my life! Years ago when moms actualy mothered their children instead of paying someone else to do it we were applauded, now we are riddiculed and told that there is more to life than kids and house work and we need to get a job to be someone and provide for our family! Call me old fashioned but I thought that is what the husband was supposed to do! Back then,our society wasn't as messed up as it is today...think about it! Too many people caring more about getting than giving. I am happily poor, and look back at the past 6 years with NO REGRETS! If it sounds like I am ranting, well maybe I am! And I think that maybe more should! Because I see quality time as more than 3-5 hours a day with your kid and my child does not equate $$$$ as love! I love my family and God more than money! -Angie <><
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Date: 8/2/2003 1:05:00 PM
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Author:
Barb
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Subject:Its great that you are able to make the ...
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It's great that you are able to make the choice to stay at home with your children; but it IS a choice, and those who choose otherwise should not be criticised anymore than you wish to be. Quality daycare DOES exist, and those who choose it are not doing damage to their children. My mother stayed at home with all 5 of us, and my sister and I are completely different due to birth order and any number of other factors. Children in quality day care DO grow up healthy and happy, in spite of some of the press which claims otherwise. Primary care in daycare may not be Mom and Dad, but it does give children a secure base from which they can grow and learn. In my infant department, we all are CDA trained and dedicated to giving the best care possible to the infants in the program. We have a 1:4 ratio, which we maintain RELIGIOUSLY. We do work as a team, but the babies bond closely with the primary caregiver, so that they have a "safe place" to explore their world from. I think the early socialization with children their own age is a plus, too. I have twin grandchildren who do not go to daycare, and I think they would be lost without each other for best friends and playmates.
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Date: 8/8/2003 7:21:00 PM
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Author:
sahm
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Subject:our babies our selves
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I think a lot of people say this to make themselves feel better. A good mom is a better choice over a good caregiver any day for any reason. Read Our babies ourselves and then see if you still agree with the point you just made. Society was better off when moms stayed home with their kids. I think that's pretty obvious. Babies do need socialization, but not necessarily from other babies (and why can't mom be there when other babies are around - it's not that mom stays home isolated from the rest of the world OR day care - babies get more socialization from their mom then from other babies. Babies match their heart rates, and other biological systems with their moms. Their biological, anthropological, social, emotional, and intellectual benefits from a full time mom. This doesn't mean mom doesn't work either. Many stay at home moms work inside the home. In many cultures, moms go with the child to tend the fields, etc. We can't say that quality day care is the norm in this society. It is scarce - it exists, but it is not the norm. Most babies are not in quality care.
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Date: 8/8/2003 7:38:00 AM
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Author:
Hope
(hlunga@bloodbank.co.zw)
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Subject:Childcare
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I have a 2 year old daughter. I am proud to say that I was at home for the past 2 years looking after her. During the early years of their lives babies need their mother's attention more than anyone else. In our country we've heard of baby minders abusing children. Where possible it's best to look after your own child for as long as you can.
With the economic hardships, sometimes it is not possible but be in your child's life as much as possible. Where you can bath and feed the baby.
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Date: 8/12/2003 11:41:00 AM
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Author:
jenn
(jenn@starkfamily.ca)
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Subject:babies in childcare
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Hello I live in Canada and here maternity leave is 52 weeks (maternity/parental) and I have 2 kids one 27months and one 8 months old. I went back to work when my first daughter was 10months old I had her in a really nice HOME DAYCARE. Here the agencies have laws saying you can have 5 kids under 5 but it goes per age group as well. You can have 1 under 1, 2 under 2 (like a 1 year old and a baby) 3 under 3, 4 under 4 and 5 under 5 or 5 in total. I am planning on staying home this time but it is not totally because of finacial reasons but more because my youngest daughter has vision problems and has had to go under surgery 3 times so far and sees doctors and specialists OT, PT, etc too many times a week to make sure she doesn't fall behind in development. I still have my oldest at the home daycare a couple days a week (for 6 hours max) to allow me and my baby to go to all these appointments. My girls are very sensitive to each other and when we have to go to the opthamologist every week my oldest will cry when the baby cries. Also the daycare provider I have is amazing. She is great and really loves the kids, She has taught my oldest alot of skills that I probably couldn't teach her as fast as she did :) But I have found these wonderfel Early Years Centers where they have playgroups where parents come with their kids (and stay with them) and they can do things like they would in a daycare center they have paints and blocks and cars and kitchen sets and a ball pen books and music and even a corner cornered off for babies and moms so kids can't stomp on a baby. When my mat leave is up I'll be having both my girls at home with me and we will visit these centers a couple times a week to encourage my girls social skills :) So i just wanted to say that some child care is good for infants. I think people who are looking to put a baby into childcare should look more at in home daycare until the child is a toddler or a preschooler
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Date: 8/12/2003 6:26:00 PM
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Author:
Janine
(janinekthompson@sympatico.ca)
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Subject:Quality Care for Infants
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I am an Early Childhood Educator in Ontario, Canada. The Day Nurseries Act regulates all licensed child care here. Although an ECE diploma (2 years of college) is not mandatory, most centres require teachers to have one. The teacher:infant ratio is 1:3. I've never heard of a licensed centre not following this ratio. Unlicensed care is pretty sketchy, the only rule they have to follow is no more than a 1:5 ratio for children, under 12, I believe. Their own kids do not count towards that ratio.
I think staying home with your children for as long as possible is ideal for most of us. However, as the daughter of a single parent, I realise that this is not an option for many. I was in day care from a very early age while my mother worked full-time. I have very fond memories of my early years. I know my mother struggled with money, but she chose the very best care possible. She stretched her money, and the precious time she had away from work to be with me. I think I've turned out okay. :) I don't have children yet, but I plan to stay home with mine and care for others in a very low ratio.
For the past two years since graduating from college I have worked privately caring for two school-aged boys. I am
I am currently seeking a full-time position in a centre.
One of the jobs I am applying for is in a brand-new Infant Program. I did both a highschool co-op and a college placement in the toddler and preschool rooms of this centre, and I'm really hoping to get the job. My interview is tomorrow!!
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Date: 6/30/2004 8:31:00 PM
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Author:
a
(clothesline@optonline.net)
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Subject:exersuacers/baby swings in childcare
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does anyone have info against the use of exer-suacers or baby swings in child care settings--
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Date: 8/18/2004 7:27:00 PM
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Author:
katherine
(ksuth@suthex.net)
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Subject:infants in care
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How much paid maternity do parents in the USA receive? In Canada if you have worked full time then you receive one year paid off. I work in a professional center in the downtown core. We have 18 infants in our center ages 6months to 18 months ( two rooms) 6 months to 1 year(10) and 12-18 months ( 8 ). Most of our parents come in after one year and some come in earlier if there is space. Because of the limited number we only take 4 babies a year and we have children on our waiting list until 2006.
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Date: 10/6/2004 6:09:00 PM
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Author:
Head Start Teacher
(Toobusytoplay@msn.com)
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Subject:Moms at work
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In the US you are lucky to get 12 weeks and then it may not be paid.
I, for one, work because I want to. I love my children, all four of them, but I am a better parent when I work. And yes, I believe in Family beds and I breast fed my children until about 16 months. When I am home all the time I deo little. When I work I feel like a whole person with interests to share with my children. I do have a job where I can take time off for whatever my children need - I have yet to miss a field trip or class party.
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Date: 10/3/2004 9:49:00 AM
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Author:
morris
(pora2004wmconnect.com)
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Subject:infants/lesson plans
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i work for a child carecenter and they want us to start doing projects with them i have about 8 infants and i find it inpossible to do it they put everything in there mouth but they insist that we do lesson plans with them i need ideas on what to do with an infant any Ideas please help!!
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Date: 10/4/2004 1:50:00 PM
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Author:
Barb
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Subject:"projects" for infants
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Children younger than 8-9 months do not have the coordination or attention span to produce projects. The most I've done with this age group is finger painting with cool-whip or baby food. (Yes, I know some people have reservations about using food for "art"). You should expose young infants to many stimuli, and talk about the way things feel, smell or sound. You might take pictures of the children's "experiments". Certainly write a note to Mom and Dad about how the child reacted to the stimulus, and\or have a bulletin board with the comments for all to see. Children 10 months or so can start using crayons or markers, and other non-toxic art media. Yes, they WILL put things in their mouths. That is one way they learn about their world. Remind them "Crayons go on the paper". Remember it's the process that's important. Whatever they produce is a work of art. Mom and Dad will be thrilled with anything you send home. Because of having to be closely supervised, it might be wise to try projects on a 1-1 basis until the children are older. Try to catch a few minutes when some are sleeping. Their short attention span makes each attempt a short one. Things like water play or sand table are great--but will not produce a "project" to be sent home---again, take pictures or write up some notes to share with Mom and Dad. Good luck!
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Date: 10/8/2004 1:16:00 PM
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Author:
Linda Childcare provider
(nanasplayhouse@comcast.net)
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Subject:infants in childcare
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In a perfect world no child would be in child care. Every parent would be able to stay home with their infants and small children. They would read to them, teach them,feed and nurture them. But we are not in a perfect world, so as a child care professional of 34 years, I give the most and best caare that I possibly can to these little ones. I strongly feel that some of these babes only get the attention, cuddling, teaching, rocking in my home. I consider it my calling to fill their little day with all the tenderness I can. So daycare or childcare is not always a negative issue. These infants have older toddlers, and children to communicate with, learn from, and enjoy playing with. I do not believe that I am alone in this position and feel that there are many providers that these little ones into their hearts and love them dearly and fill amuch needed gap.
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Date: 10/8/2004 7:29:00 PM
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Author:
Rachel
(rs4j@juno.com)
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Subject: i believe you should stay home with you...
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i believe you should stay home with your infant, unless you absolutely have to put them in child care. After all you can never get that time back!
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Date: 11/10/2004 9:08:00 AM
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Author:
Texas Provider
(rroe@sbcglobal.net)
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Subject:I am a state provider for infants throug...
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I am a state provider for infants through 2 years of age and I have to say that I have a lot of experience dealing with moms who have guilt feelings about going back to work after maternity leave. I feel like a therapist sometimes. But I tell them this: there are moms who can stay home and come off as Harriet Nelson and there are moms who are at home, yet glued to the soap operas and Dr. Phil and not paying mind to their children at all, (I've known several). They may be there physically for their kids but that's about it. There are also the working parent who think of their careers first and then there are working parents who spend quality time with their children when they are with them, (and again, I know several). Now I became a provider (initially) to stay home with my kids, and to say that it has not been a "challenge" at times would be a lie. It is not an easy job to combine the child care profession with raising a family. But I understand that not everyone can do it the way I did it so who am I to judge? I think my kids have benefited because I was home, but on the other hand I was glad when my mom went to work when I was in first grade because she was unhappy being a stay-at-home mom. I just wanted my mom to be happy.
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Date: 8/4/2005 3:39:00 PM
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Author:
JE
(NEVAEHLB@AOL.COM)
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Subject:stuck at home mom dont know what to do
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what should i do? i have been moving since I was 13. I have a three and five year old. I am in Denver Colorado and I was told by family members that I would have more support if I moved up here in Denver I was in the springs in colorado so now i am here i don't have support in helping my children,I feel stuck I can't get help from walfare because they didn't close my case,I need a job i need my own place asap. my kids need close,i was doing fine before i move here i had my own business that i just started i just need family support with my children to get farther along with my visions what should i do i am all along in this because no one wants to help me i can't think of another option
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Date: 3/12/2005 10:44:00 AM
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Author:
Jen
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Subject:activities for infants
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I recently put my daughter in daycare, she is 3 months(i had to go back to work) i was just wondering are they suppose to have a curriculum in the nursury? or is it ok that have the time she is taking naps or being fed?
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Date: 3/13/2005 11:00:00 AM
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Author:
mickikocher
(mickikocher@aol.com)
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Subject:yes, the daycare should provide stimulat...
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yes, the daycare should provide stimulation for your 3 month old, such as tummy time and swings, with things to look at. The time being fed hopefully is with a loving teacher in a rocking chair.Of course alot of reading, singing and talking is also a huge plus!
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Date: 3/26/2005 11:37:00 PM
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Author:
cherry
(openspaces@igrin.co.nz)
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Subject:infants in preschool
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Kia Ora from New Zealand. We have a national curriculum in NZ that all preschools are required to follow and yes it does cover infants from 1 month upwards. I'm interested in broadening my knowledge of what happens in other countries. Agree with the tummy time, visual and aural stimulation. I won a centre and we staff on a ratio of 1 staff to 4 infants. And that works well (another staff member has responsibility for nappy changing and sleep
ers) Cherry
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Date: 4/11/2007 3:55:00 PM
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Author:
cherryd
(shirley.adams@ero.govt.nz)
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Subject:Supplementary Review date
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Cherry I have been advised to go ahead with Tuesday 8 May 2007.
My suggestion is that:
* I send you the terms of reference and infornmation
request as soon as possible
* I arrange a telephone interview with Barbara before she
goes away, anhave a telephone conversation with Barbara
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Date: 3/13/2005 5:46:00 PM
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Author:
daycare worker
(none@none.comcom)
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Subject:No!
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One worker with four infants, it is the law but think about it. There is no way to safely assume responsibility for 4 infants that the worker barely knows. The infant wonders why he has four or five different complete strangers caring for him(or not caring for him).
Of course, when one starts crying, it is contagious. it takes special people to work with that many infants, unfortuantelly, the pay here is so abbysimal, that turnover is ludicrous.
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Date: 3/27/2005 4:27:00 AM
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Author:
Barb
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Subject:primary care
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The infant and toddler departments in my center do primary care. A group of 4 infants or 5 toddlers is cared for by the same caregiver every day. Of course, they DO help each other out when needed, but one person does most of the interacting with a child. The children and staff form very close bonds. We feel that diaper changing time is a good time for extra 1-1 time. I think I'd miss changing diapers!
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Date: 3/27/2005 3:10:00 PM
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Author:
Texas caregiver
(rroe@sbcglobal.net)
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Subject:Infants in childare..
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The state required ratio here in Texas is 4 infants to 1 provider, which for me works fine. I begin care for newborns and provide for them until age two, which is when a preschool environment is needed (I believe) to help develop other skills that they will need for elementary school. The groups I've had over the years have literally grown through babyhood and early toddlerhood together and the families get to know eachother as well. I've never had a problem with parents thinking that my ratio was out of line as far as size was concerned. Having great references from former clients has helped my business but caring for 4 infants, (after coming from a large family myself), is not impossible. Now 5 or 6......
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Date: 4/1/2005 12:10:00 PM
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Author:
Schari
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Subject:Ratio
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Kansas ratio is 3 to 1. That stretches me!
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Date: 4/29/2005 8:44:00 PM
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Author:
Terri
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Subject:infants suffer in daycare
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There is one major reason that infants are in daycare: MONEY!
How many parents can really say that their child is better off in the care of ever changing strangers than at home with a family member??
They put the infant in childcare so the parents are free to earn more money, and the centers portray it in glowing terms so that the childcare centers and corporations can make more money too.
There is nothing to suggest that a newborn infant benefits from being carted off to a form of institutional care. Of course, the busy, overworked, underpaid caregivers try their best to offer some meaningful attention, but how possible is that when 4 other babies are crying, pooping, or waiting their turn?
Infants in daycare? The idea is rooted in greed, materialism, and irresponsibility.
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Date: 4/30/2005 7:46:00 AM
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Author:
Texas caregiver
(rroe@sbcglobal.net)
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Subject:I think I hit the wrong reply button to ...
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I think I hit the wrong reply button to this one....oops! But if the original thread doesn't post I'll sum it up by saying that, yes, I agree that in a perfect world every mom should be home with their kids, particularly infants. The reason I went in to child care was not because I woke up one morning with an incredible need to do this job - there are other less stressful venues than this one with much better pay and benefits - but I felt a strong desire to be home with my own kids during their formative years and I like to think that I provide a protective and nuturing environment for other kids as well. I have also seen the greed you speak of too, Terri.... but our society does push our daughters in to getting a higher education and making something of themselves only to turn around once they have children and bite their heads off because they're not home with the kiddies. I don't see parents telling their girls to grow up and be stay-at-home moms.....I see parents pushing their girls to get in to good colleges and to compete in a man's world, (which I'm not against because a higher education is very important, but women should not be taking the brunt of this alone). I feel sorry for young women. I think we're confused in our society and often times careers don't wait for a woman who chooses to be home with their children. I think its important for a family to strike a balance the best they can. We can also thank our local, state and federal government(s) for making it possible for families to have to work more than one parent in most households, even for the modest of conveniences. The high divorce rate and single family home situations add to the stress we see in our nation's families, too. Just a thought...........
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Date: 8/6/2005 4:45:00 PM
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Author:
Terri
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Subject:parenthood or career
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Yes, we do encourage our young men and women to challenge their minds with an education. I do not see how that advice translates into ignoring parental responsibilities several years later in life.
Once two adults decide to have a child both of them should be prepared to deal with the financial sacrifices this may involve.
If they are not prepraed to alter their spending habits then perhpas they should wait til a child is more important to them than material excess.
If either the mother or father is prepared to put their career on hold or pursue it part time, then the infant will recieve more nurturing.
If they dont feel it is worth it to put their career on hold, or to modify their spending by living on at least one part time plus one full time job, then they should reconsider the importance of having a child.
If it is a single parent, and no relative is nearby, then the only option is daycare. In that case, I hope the single parent understands that she has an obligation that will demand much from her.
The best thing for the infant is not the fancy babywear, the expensive baby furniture, the molded plastic carriers that modern parents "need" to carry a little baby in(how inconvenient to carry the infant in one's arms) but rather the love and caring that a parent can provide better than any underpaid and overworked stranger.
European women are highly educated and sophisticated, yet they often take the first seven years off of work after giving birth. Their job is waiting for them too.
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Date: 5/4/2005 4:29:00 PM
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Author:
George
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Subject:Get Resources for child care
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go to http://www.childcareprofessionalsonline.com/members to sign up for a free 2 week trial
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Date: 1/5/2006 6:17:00 AM
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Author:
Dari Miller
(dariqueen7@hotmail.com)
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Subject:daycare or stay at home?
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I would love to stay at home with my kid, and thanks to our wonderful maternity leave, I got a year with her, and another year coming up with the next one. However, my boyfriend and I had bills racked up before we got pregnant, that needed to be paid off. We need a vehicle because we live out in the middle of nowhere. I do NOT work to buy my daughter designer clothes, or eat out all the time. Almost everything she owns is either second-hand or was a gift from a grandparent. Sometimes there isn't a lot of choice.
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Date: 8/15/2005 8:00:00 AM
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Author:
kidzr1st
(ahaynes@nycap.rr.com)
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Subject:FREE Daycare Listings
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This is a fun site that offers FREE daycare listings...
http://www.americatakingaction.com/childcare
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Date: 12/27/2005 5:31:00 PM
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Author:
Donya Hearn
(dmhea64@comcast.net)
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Subject:Lease building for daycare in lawton ok
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I'm moving in would like to start a daycare so, i can be home when my son gets out of school,Lawton Oklahoma.our where we are moving.looking for daycare that is selling or to lease a building. Thanks
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Date: 1/11/2006 10:22:00 PM
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Author:
Arkana
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Subject:"Sometimes there isnt a lot of choice......
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"Sometimes there isn't a lot of choice..."
It seems like in your case there was a lot of choice. You two chose to live where you live and rack up bills. Not forseeable perhaps with your first child, but it sounds like you are having another child now, even when you know the circumstances. That IS choice.
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Date: 1/18/2006 5:01:00 AM
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Author:
Dari Miller
(dariqueen7@hotmail.com)
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Subject:That still doesnt mean that I shouldnt w...
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That still doesn't mean that I shouldn't work. Yes, I'd love to be home all day (most days, at least), but I know the daycare workers personally, and trust them with my precious daughter.
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Date: 1/12/2006 5:52:00 AM
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Author:
Rudy
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Subject:infants
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There can be be quality day care for infants. I worked in a center that did have quality care for infants. It may be hard to find but research , visit and ask questions you will find them. But don't knock all day care centers because it is there
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Date: 2/14/2006 5:11:00 PM
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Author:
Heather Gillespie
(gillespieha@yahoo.com)
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Subject:Forget Baby Einstein- check out Jack, the Cuddly Dog- a great ne
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I am new to the site, but I had to share the info on this great new developmental video that I just bought for my daughter. She has already learned so much!! You will have to check it out!
Jack, the Cuddly Dog
Video Description
Jack, the Cuddly Dog — Colors and Shapes is a new educational video for babies three and under. It is about a yellow puppy who lives in a little blue house in Central Park, New York City and who takes tykes on a delightful voyage of discovery.
One of the motivations for the award-winning filmmakers of Hello Baby Productions to produce Jack, the Cuddly Dog was the idea that a baby video should be pleasant for adults as well as for the little ones! The video is divided into five sections organized by shapes, colors and themes. The animated puppy says "hello!" and reacts to live footage of babies, squirrels, turtles, dogs, farm animals and beautiful images of nature.
Inspired by classics such as Goodnight Moon and Winnie the Pooh, the animation of the puppy is hand-drawn with artistry by a former animator of Nickelodeon's Blues Clues. The music selections are carefully selected pieces by Bach, Beethoven, Chopin, Debussy and Mendelssohn designed to help soothe babies (which many of us parents know can be a crucial benefit at certain times!). They were arranged and performed for children on a real piano by concert pianist Cheryl Tschanz Newkirk.
Hello Baby Productions hopes to provide the little ones and their caregivers with a unique and enjoyable experience with this new puppy friend for babies!
The video is available at www.jackthecuddlydog.com, on Amazon.com and at select stores.
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Date: 2/15/2006 1:52:00 PM
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Author:
bobbiann
(bigddog803@go.com)
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Subject:TV and babies
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so much new research in brain and eye development are suggestion TV viewing should not be introduced to after THREE years of age. Babies need to interact verbally, TV can't do that. And now eye doctors are saying TV too early leads to almost a 'tunnel' vision. Kids watching TV as babies and toddlers learn to look straight ahead, and to 'tune out' what is happening around them. What is up with putting baby in front of the TV? As a preschool teacher, I can tell which kids are the "TV" kids. these kids get bored easy, and can't find anything to do in class during free play (unless it involves one of their own toys which is usually a TV character). These kids think creative arts are dumb, they won't do music and movement. Then as they hit closer to Kindergarten, they don't want to go to school. (or, what they are really saying, they don't want to do school work were they are expected to do certain activities.) Its scary. Babies need to learn to entertain themselves, without TV or mom entertaining them. Give a baby enriching toys, books, music CD's, crayons, paper, make edible play-dough and have the baby play with it at the table. Talk and communicate with your baby. sing songs, play word games. TV does ore to hinder communication, does the TV communicate with you? NO! you just sit and stare. maybe you'd get a tidbit of info, but is there anyone there you can talk to about your show? the show doesn't talk back to you, give you praise. it just spews out stuff to entertain. Just please wait to buy 'education TV' until the baby is in preschool. Your child's grades and school acheivement will reflect what you put in your child's head the early years.
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Date: 2/28/2006 12:49:00 PM
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Author:
staci
(sareaves1@yahoo.com)
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Subject:So why do they have videos,
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I have twin girls 10 months and I am not working right now.I can get them to look at the video for the 29 minutes a day. I don't think that will hurt them. I need that time to cook or clean.I am so confused.
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Date: 2/28/2006 12:50:00 PM
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Author:
staci
(sareaves1@yahoo.com)
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Subject:need help with finding lesson plans for 10-12 months
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I am currently at home with my daughters and am trying to create a lesson plan for them. But can not find anything online.
Any suggestions would be helpful
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Date: 3/1/2006 12:03:00 PM
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Author:
bethie
(Early childhood ages)
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Subject:Lesson plans for babies
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The best lesson plan you can have is to set up an interesting, stimulating, and developmentally appropriate environment in your home for your babies and let them play, play, play. Reading to them often is extremely important.
Have you done any studying on the importance of play to brain development in babies and young children? If not,
here is a link to a really good article that you should read so that you understand what is important to your babies development. www.babyclassroom.com/article-learn-play.html
Another excellent site is www.zertothree.org Click on the parents department there and you will learn all kinds of things you can do for your babies "lesson plans."
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Date: 10/28/2006 8:36:00 AM
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Author:
iteach
(teachingmommy78@aol.com)
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Subject:When we had our son, he was in daycare f...
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When we had our son, he was in daycare for 2 days a week. We had generous family members that helped for the other three days. If he needed full time daycare, we would have waited to have him. I think it's unacceptable to have an infant in daycare full time for 5 days a week. They are not getting the attention that an infant deserves. My son was sick CONSTANTLY when he was in daycare. The health aspect is also a concern to me, now that I have lived through it. A baby shouldn't be sick so much and feel so much pain. Eventually my family banded together so that we took take our son out of daycare perminantly. He is 110% healthier.
Everyone has their own reasons for putting their babies in daycare, full time. I have friends who are wonderful parents that have had to do it. It's not for me though.
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Date: 11/19/2006 4:17:00 PM
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Author:
cindy
(cindymackenzie@sympatico.ca)
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Subject:ratios for private care in Ontario
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What is the legisilation around private care in Ontario??
Is it different with an agency??
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Date: 4/8/2007 6:18:00 PM
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Author:
melissa bugeja
(bugejam@hotmail.com)
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Subject:pros and cons of being an ece
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i was wondering cuz iam stuck on this assignment, iam looking for pros and cons of being an early childhood educator.
can someone please help me?
thanks
melissa
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Date: 6/23/2007 8:51:00 AM
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Author:
Kim
(cinnamtoastandsugar@yahoo.com)
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Subject:infants in daycare
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I just had to comment on this issue.
I love the babies in my daycare. Each one of them has stolen my heart and I would not have it any other way. I honestly love them. They bring alot of joy into my home. Maybe its my age, I see how fast they grow up (had 5 of my own) and I know every day is special and a gift from God.
Just my thoughts on the subject.
Kim
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Date: 8/17/2007 10:02:00 AM
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Author:
CJ
(Simba732@yahoo.com)
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Subject:Infants in Child Care
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There are many parents who need to work and who do not have supports like a loving grandparent to care for their babies.
Minnesota is a state that limits the number of infants that a child care center and a family child care can care for, which is a very good thing. The only problem is that there is a great shortage of good infant care available. It would be wonderful if some of the parents who are able to stay home with their babies would consider helping out one other family who do not have this option by providing child care. It would bring some income into the home for the parent who is not working out of the home and it would help out a great deal with the shortage of infant care that is available. In
Minnesota it is legal to care for one family's children outside of your own family. I noticed that some reponders to this site mentioned a need for ideas of what to do with infants. There are some great trainings available through Child Care Resource and Referral. You do not have to be licensed to sign up for these trainings. Another option is online training. One site that I have personally used is
www.mnchildcare.org which offers online training through Eager to Learn. I enjoyed the training I took and I learned
a great deal.
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