My grandma always says we are supposed to learn something new every day. When a job comes along that you have never had this becomes a normal day to day occurrence. Kids, especially little kids have never been my forte, so working at a daycare was a new adventure for me. I learned things about myself that I never knew possible, and I learned more about kids that I never thought possible.
1. Kids are full of boogers.
You can wipe a kid’s nose and after you throw the Kleenex away its boogery again. Even when they don’t have a cold there are boogers everywhere.
2. Patience is key.
Kids are loud, talkative, and full of energy. They can almost sense that you are impatient. So keeping calm and being patient is the best thing you can do when dealing with kids.
3. They just want attention.
Play with them. Get on the floor with them and be on their level. Give them hugs, high-fives, and encouragement.
4. Seeing them smile, laugh, or be silly will be the highlight of your day.
Going to work and seeing my kids is what I looked forward to after class. Day cares may be full of crying babies but they are also full of giggles and smiles.
5. Younger kids cry, a lot.
They don’t know how else to express themselves when they are unhappy. If adults did it, it would be weird but with little kids it is a natural thing.
6. Dirty clothes pile up.
I have done more laundry since I worked a day care than I ever have. Kids get you full of boogers, food, milk, pee, poop and anything else you can think of.
7. Kids are constantly hungry because they are constantly growing.
Kids need food. Breakfast, lunch, and snack times are super important throughout the day. The kids get so excited and they run towards the food like it’s been all day since they have eaten. Which usually it’s only been a few hours.
8. Some parents may not seem grateful for what you do but they truly are.
Some parents come in seeming angry or they yell at you but they truly do appreciate what day care providers do during the day. Parents have long days at work and sometimes they lash out at inappropriate times but they are happy you are there with their kids.
9. Not working on weekends is nice.
Not all day cares only run during the week but the one I worked at only ran Monday through Friday. So having two days off a week was great. But going back to work on Monday was just as great.
Day cares are full crying, boogers, and dirty diapers. But they are also full of dancing, laughter, and smiles. Working at a daycare is hard but it’s amazing. Even on the worst days the kids make it better.
