When I began working at a preschool and childcare, I knew I wouldn't want my job any other way. I think I'm speaking on behalf of every childcare worker out there when I say that there are some days where we can't wait to go home (or for a certain child to go home), but the love that shared between you and your classroom is insurmountable. There are a lot of things us childcare workers can relate to, good and bad, they're all right here.
1. Rest time has its perks and its downsides.
This time set aside each day is a blessing and a curse. You may have that one child who cannot sleep in the middle of the day for the life of them, but then again, the rest of the children are finally at peace and you can catch up on items needed to be done.
2. When one of your kiddos just needs a hug, you are always the first one there.
If you're like me, it makes you feel better too just to be there for them for a few minutes.
3. "I have to go potty!" they say as they're going potty.
We've all had it happen.
4. You catch yourself singing the classroom songs whenever you aren't at the center.
"There's Sunday and there's Monday, there's Tuesday and there's Wednesday..."
5. When kids move up to the next classroom, you're sort of shocked and start to feel nostalgic.
How many times have you caught yourself saying to parents "I remember their first day here as a baby!"?
6. You go home and tell the first person you see about your day.
"Well, one almost puked on me, one spilled their juice all over me, one had to be sent home with a fever and now I'll probably get sick..."
7. When you work long enough at the center, you realize that all of the children are getting sick and not you.
You then continue to feel like a super human.
8. Your teacher voice occasionally comes out to your friends and family...
And they may have to tell you when it does.
9. Working with children older than the age of six sometimes intimidates you.
"Why are you so tall?" "What do 12-year-olds listen to? Frozen?"
10. You may or may not say "potty" when you're away from work.
11. You refuse to buy any sort of art supply that doesn't say "washable" on it.
You've learned from your mistake the first time. That one part on your work shirt still looks like it has a blood stain on it.
12. You're a frequent hand washer.
You're probably amazed you still have skin.
13. When it's outside time and the children are not ready to brace the heat/cold/wind/snow.
We aren't either, guys, but I need to pretend like I'm super stoked to watch you throw snow at each other.
14. Your Pinterest is chalk-full of classroom ideas, crafts, experiments, etc.
Fellow teachers appreciate me, I think.
15. Fellow staff members are always there to help out.
Need coffee? Shout for someone to grab you one on their break. Kid just puked and you have two others fighting over a piece of paper? Teacher's assistant to the rescue!
16. Though there are some days where you just want to rip your hair out, you always remind yourself that you are making a difference in a little human's life.
You truly are blessed to be able to work with such independent individuals.
