You never want to be one of those people who dreads going to work on a daily basis. I am lucky enough to have a job so enjoyable that I look forward to going in everyday I am scheduled. People will say that it takes an "acquired taste" to work in a daycare, but I believe it's something that comes naturally and here's ten reasons why!
1. You look forward to going to work everyday.
Working at a daycare is a job that you go into everyday with a smile on your face. For me it doesn't even feel like I'm going into work, it feels more like a hobby or lifestyle than a job. From when you go in, until 6 pm, you get to learn, play and enjoy the company of a tiny human.
2. You learn to see from a different perspective.
Children see the world in a completely different way that adults do. Something that may seem plain and boring to us, may amaze a three year old. For example, seeing a butterfly or a caterpillar may seem boring to us, but to a child, they are amazed at this creature, what it does and what it looks like. Their imagination is so big and so beautiful it's actually amazing some of the things that come out of their mouths.
3. You learn to care for kids, before even having your own kids.
If you're a young college student working at a daycare and have no kids of your own, there's no better training for being a mommy than working at a daycare. You play, love, cook, clean, change, and entertain these children all day long. By the time you have your own kids, you'll be amazed at how much you already know about childcare.
4. You learn to build relationships with the families.
It's very important for a parent to be involved in their child's development. When a parent comes to pick up or drop off everyday, your communication with them is so important. These parents are trusting you with their children day in and day out, and having that good relationship puts the parent's mind at ease that their child is in great hands.
5. Hugs. Lots and lots of hugs!
If a child likes you, they get so excited to see you, even if you only left like, 10 minutes ago. Working at a daycare, hugs become part of a daily routine, You get a hug when they're dropped off. You hug them when they get "boo-boo's." And sometimes, they give you hugs and tell you the love you just because. And that's the best feeling in the world.
6. You become a superhero.
Walk in the classroom with a special snack? You're the best person ever. Come to the rescue with a band-aid when someone scrapes their knee? You're like a doctor. These kids rely on you to keep them happy and safe. And by making little sweet gestures to them, you do it everyday.
7. Becoming close with your staff.
You spend all day, five days a week with your coworkers. That's a lot of time. You get to know them better than most people and they're always there for you through thick and thin. It's always so great to have a great staff to work along side.
8. Fun family events!
One of the best parts of the job is holiday events. An Easter egg hunt, a Mother's Day ice cream social, a Father's Day hot dog roast. All of these events that bring the children, staff and families together make for an awesome work environment.
9. Summers are the absolute best.
What's better than water play, ice cream, sandboxes and so many fun activities because the weather's beautiful? Nothing! Summer is the absolute best time to work at a daycare because there's so many different things to do!
10. Loving your job with everything you have.
If someone were to ask me if I liked my job, the answer would be no. I love it! I love the kids I work with, the staff I work with, and my awesome boss. I couldn't picture myself working anywhere else right now. The love I get from these kids on a daily basis is irreplaceable.
