Congregations Caring for Children

Caregivers are patient.  Working with young children can be difficult even on the

easiest days.  Adults who are well suited to the early childhood environment realize

that growth is an uneven process that takes time.  These individuals are able to see

long term progress amid the small crises and setbacks that occur daily.

Caregivers in the early childhood center are accepting of families.  They enjoy working

with and can nurture parents as well as children.  Caregivers continually affirm the

importance of the family in the children's lives.  They recognize their role as one of

supporting parents' relationships with their children rather than replacing them.

Caregivers are able to get along with others.  They exhibit respect for adults and

children.  As a member of the early childhood program staff, these individuals work

cooperatively, listen, share ideas, give and receive support readily.

Caregivers possess a firm sense of professional ethics.  They are honest, trustworthy,

and caring in all matters.  These adults respect the rights and property of others.

They understand the need for confidentiality and protect the privacy of the families

they serve.

Caregivers of young children are in good physical and mental health.  Caring for infants,

toddlers, and preschoolers is demanding work.  Adults who are well suited for the

center have stamina, energy, and positive attitudes.  They promote good health

among the children as well as care for themselves.

Caregivers in the early childhood center are willing to grow.  They exhibit a desire to

learn.  These adults are open to new ideas, experiences, and theories.  They are able

to alter their behavior, acquire new skills, and share insights with others.

Caregivers for young children exhibit a strong sense of commitment to the center.  These

adults are comfortable with the program's philosophy and dedicated to working

toward the program's objectives.  They understand the children's need for long term

relationships and are willing to remain at the center over an extended period of time.

These adults are willing to invest time in preparation, cleanup, staff meetings, and

related activities to enhance the overall experiences of the children.

Caregivers are creative.  They actively search for new ways to help children explore

their environment.  They recognize that children have different learning styles, and

select materials that enable children to use all of their senses.

Caregivers of young children expect their primary role to be one of sharing love with

others.  Their concern for the children is demonstrated in what they say and what

they do.  They share the joys of children, comfort them in disappointment, and

welcome growth.  They regard the opportunity to share God's love as a special

calling to serve infants, toddlers, preschoolers, and their families.

Adapted from Early Childhood Ministry and Your Church: How to Start and Maintain an Early Childhood

Center. Augsburg Fortress Press, 1991. Used with permission.

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