This job is hard. “When I hire, I am always sure that they know this. It isn’t babysitting or play time,” Mary said. This job requires an impressive amount of patience. “The most difficult aspect is changing your mindset and attitude to fit what the children need. You have to be very flexible and patient,” Teresa said.
Teresa Rokitowski loves the job, even though it is overwhelming at times. She said that getting to know the children and being able to bond with them is amazing. “The kids have their own personalities and it’s nice to get to know them,” she said.
“But the personal benefits to caring for young children: being there for them when they scrape their knee. Or someone took their toy. Or they got no sleep the night before and are melting down over and over. Being there when they finally figure out that puzzle piece after twisting it 25 times. Seeing their faces light up when they come to you to give you the morning hug. Being a safe space for them– it is all worth it,” Mary Rokitowski said.
Working in a daycare is messy, exciting and sometimes gross. But it is worth it in the end when you see the impact you have made on a child. It’s hard for parents to trust a stranger with their baby. But at Honeybee Childcare, the teachers treat each child like their own. They are constantly meeting with parents and their directors in order to provide the best experience for the children in their care. A daycare is more than just watching a child. It’s creating a safe space for them to learn and grow.
