A Day in The Life
My work as a Childcare Practitioner
My day starts when the children arrive. Peak time for morning arrivals is 8.00am to 8.30am. I'm already changed into my uniform which the company provides. It
certainly saves wear and tear on my own clothes.
Arriving at the nursery
Greeting parents is extremely important. It's an opportunity to exchange information about their child and ask if there are any special requirements for that day. If
there are, they are noted in the communication book to ensure that everyone knows what's happening.
Starting the Day
If the child is familiar with the nursery their parents may simply drop them off at their room where they will start to play and mix with their friends. If they
are new to the nursery I need to be sensitive to their needs and give them some reassurance.
Planning the Day
Each room's team has weekly planning meetings to discuss what activities will take place that week and what resources are required. We need to be aware of the
development stage of each child and how we can extend an activity to stretch their abilities.
Learning through play
Once we have our plan, we set up each room appropriately. We include, for instance, activities which will help assist their social and emotional development,
their language and communication ability or their imaginative and creative skills.
I personally enjoy creative and messy activities as they allow children to explore new sensations and use materials in ways that are new to them. I can use my artistic ideas to display work for the parents. A child loves to show adults what they have done during the day.
Meal Times
Meal and rest times are an important part of our day. I am aware that the children will often imitate my actions and respond to my feelings during these
sociable times. It is therefore important I create a relaxed atmosphere, perhaps by playing calming background music.
Children will help me set the table and serve the meal. I sit down and have lunch with them and usually find these times of interaction extend a child's use of language and vocabulary. I will record this information so I can feedback to parents at the end of the day.
Daily activities
Our activities and routines are usually very flexible and can be changed to suit the mood of the children. For example, if it's snowing I will spend more
time in the garden. On the other hand, if it's raining outside we will have to change our plan and allow physical activity to take place inside.
Going Home
I normally go home exhausted! Most days are usually very busy but it's good that each day is different and rewarding. I sometimes ask myself if I have made
a positive difference to a child's life. That's what is really important to me and why I decided to take up a career in childcare.