What Are Some of the Challenges Faced by New Infant and Toddler Teachers?

Chapter 5

What are some of the challenges faced by new infant and toddler teachers?

“Thinking back to my first day, as an infant/toddler floater at my first daycare after receiving my credentials from the state of NC. I remember the awkward looks as some of the parents brought their children in. I was a new face and they were obviously and rightfully concerned about who the new girl was. I had a few parents ask about my educational background, my age and how long had I been in the childcare setting. These questions did not make me feel uncomfortable, instead I felt the need to make sure I provided quality care for each and every child in my care.”

This was the response I received from Tamera at Kiddie Kollege Early Learning Academy when I asked her about the challenges she faced as a new infant/toddler teacher.

Her more detailed response aligned with the book. She explained to me that the most difficult part of her job over the years has been trying to get parents to realize that most of the time, she in fact knows more about a child than the parents. She explained that is hard and sometimes even detrimental to the parent/teacher relationship to express what you observe daily.

“I remember once that I was the one who informed a mother that her baby was teething.”, said Tamera.

The mother’s eyes got big and she said, “Are you sure? I think she is too young.”

Tamera explained to me that although the baby was only four months old, her and her assistant teacher had noticed that the infant’s bowels had become loose and she was wetting 2-3 bibs throughout the day.

Below I have listed what (in my experiences) are some challenges new infant/toddler teachers face:

As new teachers, our judgment is often questioned and even tested.

Some families choose not to communicate openly their concerns or allow the teachers to engage in bonding with the child.

If families are not open minded to the advances and discoveries found in this field, they may not be as reluctant to adhere to state guidelines that daycares and teachers must follow. (ie. Placing infant on back to sleep)

The most important challenge that I believe caregivers/teachers face is making children comfortable and gaining their trust. For a newborn, that has been home with mom for the first 6-12 weeks of life and then one day, they are dropped off to daycare, it can be overwhelming to deal with adapting to a new setting, a touch and voice that isn’t Mommy.