Teachers as Healthy Role Models

08/02/2004

Teachers as Healthy Role Models

"You refuse to own yourself, you permit others to do it for you." - Margaret Atwood

Teachers as Healthy Role Models

The Exchange Articles on CD Collection "Staff Training" includes this advice from Donna Rafanello:

"Children mimic us. Many of the funny stories we tell are based on observations of children who echo our words and imitate our behavior in their play. These can be quite comical. We learn from these observations that modeling is an effective way to shape children's behavior. When parents and other caregivers model healthy behavior and attitudes, we take care of ourselves and teach children the principles for healthy living.

"Teaching young children is emotionally and physically demanding work that requires the energy that comes with living a healthy lifestyle. Those of us who care for young children owe it to ourselves to be in good health, and we owe it to the children in our care. With young children watching us as closely as they do, it is essential that we recognize the role our own behavior plays in helping them establish their own healthy habits. 'Walk the talk' and 'Practice what you preach' and children will benefit from it. Helping children to value health and wellness contributes to their overall well-being now and throughout their lives....

"Try this: Make a list of the important health habits that you and your staff feel children should demonstrate. Then identify when and where teachers can model these habits for children."

This excerpt, from the article, "Show and Tell: Modeling Healthy Behaviors and Attitudes," can be read in its entirety on our home page at www.ChildCareExchange.com.

Articles on CD Collections on Sale!
This week only, all CD Collections are on sale with a 20% discount. To take advantage of this discount, go to http://mail.ccie.com/go/eed/0364

For more information about Exchange's magazine, books, and other products pertaining to ECE, go to www.ccie.com.