I was a licensed daycare provider for over 13 years. I have cared for over 400 kids through my time as a daycare provider. 

What I realized over the years is that most parents really did not understand what my role was as a child care provider. 

This realization came to me one day when I was yelled at by a parent. 

It was 10 am in the morning when one of my employees told me that one of the kids was not feeling well. I took the little one out of the classroom and checked her temperature. 

Her temperature read 100.9 degrees, her face was a little red and her nose was running.  I proceeded to try to cool her off and I comforted her, before making a call to her mother. 

I said, “Hi Ms. Benjamin. Sorry to interrupt you at work but your baby has a slight fever and is not feeling well. I gave her a popsicle and she is lying down resting. Can you come and pick her up?” 

Her mom responded, “I am working. I do not have time for this!. Can’t you just babysit her until I get off and just go get her some Tylenol?”

I explained to her mom that I am sorry, unfortunately we cannot keep her. We have to follow the State Child Care Licensing rules to minimize the spread of any illness to the other children and we do not keep Tylenol onhand just in case children get sick, nor can we leave out and go get her some Tylenol.

Her mom proceeded to say, “What use is a daycare if I can’t work?”  

I tried to explain but she was not happy with my response, but did come to pick up her daughter within a few hours.

Her words really made me upset. I am not a babysitter! I have regulations to follow!

Although, I do understand that her job pays our salaries and she does have to work to provide for her child. I was once a single mom and I know how much time and money it takes to run a household.

The last thing I wanted to do was make her lose out on money.

Unfortunately, this is the responsibility that comes with raising children.

This made me realize that most parents really do not know the role of a child care provider.

I have talked to other child care providers and they felt the same way I did. 

Misconceptions

Here are some common misconceptions about child care providers:

• Reality: While some providers may be able to accommodate a slightly under-the-weather child, most daycare centers have strict policies in place to prevent the spread of illness. These policies often require children to be fever-free for a certain period and symptom-free before returning.

• Reality:While they are trained in child development and first aid, they are not medical professionals. If a child becomes seriously ill at daycare, the provider will contact the parent or emergency services immediately.

It's important to remember that daycare providers are there to provide care for healthy children. Parents should not rely on them to take care of their sick children, as this can put other children at risk.

Here are some common misconceptions parents have about a daycare provider's role, along with additional information about each:

• Reality: Daycare providers are trained professionals who provide early childhood education and care. They create a nurturing environment that supports children's social, emotional, cognitive, and physical development.  

• Additional Information: Daycare providers implement structured learning activities, follow developmentally appropriate practices, and maintain a safe and stimulating environment. They also build positive relationships with children and their families, fostering a sense of security and trust.  

• Reality: Many daycare providers have formal education and training in early childhood education. They are required to meet specific licensing and certification requirements to ensure they are qualified to care for children.  

• Additional Information: Daycare providers are constantly learning and staying up-to-date on the latest research and best practices in early childhood education. They attend professional development workshops, conferences, and training sessions to enhance their skills and knowledge.  

• Reality: While daycare providers strive to create a positive and nurturing environment, they cannot guarantee that children will be happy all the time. Children experience a range of emotions, and it is important for them to learn how to cope with both positive and negative feelings.  

• Additional Information: Daycare providers help children develop emotional regulation skills, such as self-soothing and problem-solving. They teach children how to express their feelings in healthy ways and how to manage their emotions.  

• Reality: While daycare providers lay the foundation for future learning, they are not solely responsible for a child's academic success. Parents play a vital role in supporting their child's learning and development at home.  

• Additional Information: Daycare providers work with parents to create a partnership that supports their child's learning and development. They provide parents with resources and activities to do at home and encourage them to get involved in their child's education.  

By understanding these misconceptions and the true role of daycare providers, parents can build a stronger partnership with their child's provider and create a positive and supportive learning environment for their child.

How can we help?

Supporting your child care provider can make a significant difference in her life and the well-being of the child.

Here are some ways you can offer help or support:

• Show appreciation and gratitude: Express gratitude for the hard work and dedication of child care providers. A simple "thank you" can go a long way in boosting morale.

• Be understanding and patient: Remember that child care providers are human too. They may experience stress, fatigue, and burnout. Be patient and understanding when interacting with them.

• Follow their policies and procedures: Adhere to the daycare's policies and procedures, such as drop-off and pick-up times, communication protocols, and health requirements. This helps providers maintain a smooth operation.

• Communicate openly and honestly: Maintain open and honest communication with your child's provider. Share any concerns or questions promptly and respectfully.

• Participate in parent-teacher conferences and other events: Attend parent-teacher conferences and other events to learn about your child's development and to support the provider's efforts.

• Offer assistance when possible: If you have the time and ability, offer to help with tasks such as cleaning up or preparing snacks.

By taking these steps, we can help ensure that child care providers have the support they need to provide high-quality care for our children.

Resources

If you would like other resources to support your child care provider, here are some resources:

• National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC): This organization provides resources and support for early childhood educators, including parents.  

  https://www.naeyc.org

• Child Care Aware of America: This organization offers information and resources for parents and child care providers.  

  https://www.childcareaware.org/

• National Child Care Information Center (NCIC): This center provides research, technical assistance, and information on child care.

  https://NCCIC.org

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