The ‘instant gratification’ drive
In childcare, we are taught not to do anything for the children. Let me clarify that nappies will be changed, children will be fed, given the opportunity to sleep and water bottles will be filled but we refrain form doing anything for the children. The belief is that children are taught just as much though my voice as they are though my actions. If I cut it out, draw it, build it, serve it for them, they learn that if they ask for it, they get it and I’m better at getting it for them, so why should they try. So in age appropriate ways and based on the skills of the child, I refrain. I don’t cut it out, I don’t draw it.
I often use the wording, ‘your “child’s age” your big you can do it’ to communicate my point to the child and encourage children to attempt it for themselves first. I will help as required and I will insure their needs are met but I want them to help themselves as much as possible. This includes asking them to help themselves at mealtimes which teaches portion control and rule free eating, something that’s going to benefit their health now and in the future. By encouraging them to choose what they eat, and giving them a list of options that together to form a healthy and balanced meal your encouraging them to listen to their body. It also teaches self help skills, skills that teens and adults are expected to have.
Another thing I don’t do is draw a portion of a picture for them, I won’t draw a flower or cartoon character for a child. When a child asked for help with an artwork I explain, I’m happy to help you but I can’t draw it for you, If I do then it’s no-longer your work. I will assist a child with writing messages for parents if they can’t wright for themselves or need help spelling words or an example of the thing they wanted me to draw and ask did you want it like this. Another option I use is drawing a picture for myself and invite children to help me colure it. But I won’t collaborate on a child’s artwork, that crosses a line.
All educators draw the line at a different point too. Some educators will write or draw on the artworks of a kindy child. In the first half of the year I often will write their name on the back of the piece art for safe keeping and so it can be given to the correct parents. Some educators will push the swings for all children all the time. I give children one big push per turn and what ever they do with that is their problem. Everyone is in their right to draw the line where ever they deem fit but you need to keep the age of your child in mind and work to what is actually possible, not what’s convenient for you. You also need to be there and ready to step in to assist as where needed. Yes they ‘need to learn’ but they also need support in learning otherwise your impeding their ability to learn.
When to step in is always a challenging call too. I ask for one big try before I step in if I’m unsure that the child is able to do the task. If they get it they get it an I will encourage that independence, if they don’t they don’t, I’ve reduced stress by helping and they’ve put in a good effort. It’s not about doing everything for a child, its about helping the child to do everything on their own. I’m instantly gratifying needs and will assist with wants, but I’m teaching independence though my actions and allowing the children to become competent in themselves.
Activity of the week
Bubble painting is a fun way to add fun to art.
You will need
Food dye (in colures that will mix well)
Bubble mix
Cardstock
Disposable straws
Cups (one cup per colure)
Lay out your cardstock. Split your bubble mix between your paper cups and dye your bubble mix with food dye. Dip your straw into each cup and allow your child to blow bubbles on to the paper. When the bubbles pop they will leave a colourful pattern on the paper. You can make your own bubble mix using the quick activity guide on my page.