Here is a real letter left at an early childhood center along with an orchid:
Dear [Teacher Names],
There are no words to describe how hard it is to leave your first child at the age of three months, in a room full of then strangers.
For weeks, unable to concentrate at work, wondering what our daughter did all day.... Did she eat 6 ounces at 11 am? Was she burped? I should’ve told her teachers that rubbing her belly rocks her to sleep!!!
Then months go by and you find yourself admiring the teachers who have chosen a profession requiring extreme patience, but also lots of tenderness and love. Then you find yourself taking parenting advice from them. Why not? Some of them have been “daycare moms” for more than a decade!
Then a few more months go by and it happens! Our daughter does not want to come home anymore. She kicks and screams because she either wants to play longer or hold on to her teachers. A bittersweet moment indeed! But as you close the door to the classroom with a crying baby on your hip, you think back to that first nervous day and know that it was all worth it!!!
Our daughter’s first solid foods, first steps, first words, first smiles, were shared with the kind staff at [Center Name] and we will always remember you for that.
We cannot thank you enough,
[Satisfied Parents]
Staff development is an important ongoing part of managing an early childhood program. These two resources focus on ways to create and maintain a work environment that increases competence and where staff feel valued and supported by you and their peers.
Comments (3)
Displaying All 3 CommentsNike Child Development Program
Beaverton, Oregon, United States
The article brought a tear to my eye. This is one huge reason why I chose this field and why after 15 years I continue to. It is a gift to know that you are not only helping children but also their parents :)
Smiling Faces Child Care
Williamston, N.C., United States
After reading the article, "What Motivates Teachers," I can relate to the it very well. Many days a parent have left a screaming, crying and kicking child in my care. It is a hard thing for a parent to leave their child in that state.
As time does go on and the child began to adapt to the teacher, a safe, learning and caring environment, the parent and teacher can see the progress and growth. The person who was once a total stranger has become a trusting, and loving being the parent can feel safe about leaving their child with. Also, the child has become more comfortable.
Parents have shown how much they appreciated me by communicating when they pickup their child, giving gifts, a phone call or taking me out to lunch.
I do thank the parents for showing their appreciation, but, even if they did not give me anything, the most precious gifts of all are, making sure their child is nurtured and given the love, care, and teaching that is required of me. It takes a special person to work with children.
Thanks,
Eula Hedgebeth
United States
So beautiful! It's what every child and every parent deserves. Thanks for sharing. It brought a tear to my eye. Our work is so important!
Post a Comment