CAMDEN — By BRADLY GILL
Staff writer
Chances are that if you work and have young children, you might be looking into finding adequate child-care.
Demetria Rone of Bright Beginnings Child Care spoke to the Camden Noon Lions Club about the positives of child-care services and what parents need to do in order to choose the best fit for a child.
“With child-care you wear many hats and you play so many different roles,” Rone said. “You’re a teacher, nurse, comforter and, most of all, a nurturer. When you are a child-care provider, you have to be friendly and smile with children in your care, and participate in age-appropriate activities with children. You have to be calm and patient when guiding young children’s behavior.”
Rone said that some of the benefits of child-care include verbal stimulation and socialization. Children also learn social skills that are the building blocks of society, she stated.
For many children, it is the first time they get to socialize with people other than family. It also provides a routine for children and prepares them for school.
For parents who are planning on choosing a child-care service, Rone said, “Before your child begins child-care, you need to visit the program together. This will give your child the chance to meet with the provider and other children.”
Rone recommends talking positively around your child about any potential programs, which helps to alleviate any fears they may have.
She said that children will pick up on anxiety and mirror the parent’s feelings about the service.
Rone stated that during the first few drop-off and pick-up days, parents should stick around and ask questions of providers.
Rone also suggested establishing a drop-off routine involving a hug or kiss, and telling your child you will be back to get then.