No one understands the unique dynamics that go into all versions of childcare, unless you work in the field it is easy to be naïve. Each new group of children brings about change. All the different parenting techniques become a melting pot in daycares/ day homes, but not always easily navigated. Respecting ethnic diversity, family complexity, in addition to disabilities, mental health, and addiction. The list of basic requirements in being a well rounded child care worker is a very long one.
Morale can take a hit across the board, whether there is one staff member or thirty. A feeling of isolation. Parents are only helpful with their own children, and usually in a hurry to either drop off or pick up their children. The social end of running a day home is dependent on either past relationships, families reaching out, or social groups beyond your day home/family responsibilities. It can be very difficult to want to “people” beyond the work day. I have come to realize how much my daily job affects my life. When my children were young it was easy to fill the void of a social life. Filling my day with my children’s activities, have the occasional conversation with people in the hockey arena, etc… But now that my children are older and have moved out, my circle of friends has become very small.
Not everyone wants to hear about how many diapers I changed, or who finally learned to tie their own shoes. There are always the comments of, “I don’t think I could do what you do on a daily”, to “I wouldn’t want your job”. Empathy is there, appreciation is definitely felt, but not enough to not feel withdrawn from society. Just like any profession unless you have a community to support the daily grind, it can be isolating. I am all for working from home, or with others. But I feel daycare workers, home based or center, need a support group.
We are a sought after, ridiculed, celebrated, and overlooked profession. Most (not all) childcare workers are underpaid, and over worked. From the in home daycares that work 40 plus hours a week (I currently work 50+ hours), to the early childcare workers in centers running on empty trying to keep up with the newest government requirements. Under a microscope constantly due to the fragility of our chosen profession.
People don’t understand the amount that it costs financially, mentally, and physically to properly operate a childcare facility. I, as well as “We”, are with children primarily during their most formative years. We are not just “watching children play all day”, and yes it is a “real job”. The incorrect association of identity and value contributes to a feeling of apathy at work, it also makes us early educators view ourselves poorly. Given that childcare is a field that is underappreciated, shifting our own personal opinion makes a world of difference. Support groups for the overall welfare of all of us is much needed, to help stop burnout, and to help us feel heard and valued.