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If you are searching for a cushy career then swerve steadily away from childcare because this is one career that involves a lot of work and responsibilities as well as the ability to nurture various relationships and roles. But what exactly is the role of the day care worker and what are the significant relationships that must be nurtured in order for a harmonious, safe and effective environment to exist?

The worker and child relationship is the generally the most obvious one. A worker should never be content to simply be a caregiver but should see their function as encompassing the enrichment of the child's experience through facilitating the creative, learning and play environment. Needless to say children should be cared for in a warm and understanding manner so the day care worker will need an extremely caring temperament.

Many and varied are the necessary skills of the day care worker. These include an eagle eye on a safe environment, the ability to facilitate the learning of the independent child, giving that child the necessary support to participate in learning activities, encouraging individuality and self confidence, recognizing that each child develops at their own pace, encouraging caring personalities in the classroom and buckets of patience.

Day care workers must be capable of working together harmoniously. The needs of the children are paramount and as such effective teamwork is essential. The major elements of the workers' relationships are understanding, respect and cooperation. Chaos and confusion can ensue should one person misunderstand or disrespect the objectives and focus of the day care service.

Planning and reviewing sessions will encourage positive interaction and communication between staff which will include positive criticism and ideas for improvement. A comment book coupled with frequent verbal updates can provide effective daily communication. Of course regular evaluation of staff by management is needed to monitor progress and ensure continuing standards.

Management should encourage, and make accessible, ongoing and relevant childcare training for all staff (who will already be suitably qualified from the outset). This brings us to the incredibly important area of support and supervision of staff. A senior member of staff should be available in a mentor/supervisor role, a healthy working place both physically and emotionally should exist, management should be approachable and pay adequate - all this leads to the environment necessary for workers to perform their duties effectively.

Finally, a very important, yet often overlooked relationship is that of worker and parent. Open communication with the parents is vital for the best interests of the child. Both parties should be on the same page when it comes to the development of the child. Parents should have easy access to all policies and procedures associated with the day care which should be clear and concise. Encourage and welcome all parental involvement and input.

Possessing the above qualities and abilities are essential if you wish to work in the day care setting and if you have any doubts about your suitability then you may need to seriously consider an alternate profession. Despite the varied duties, responsibilities and difficulties attached to this career it is a rewarding one for the right personality.

To discover more about starting a daycare, visit Child Care Only where you will find this an much more, covering all aspects of how to start a daycare center.