The Realities and Rewards of Working with Children

My experience of working with children was a journey full of both joys and challenges. I loved every moment of it, yet I often struggled with the realities of the job. From struggling to develop skills in those who were underperforming to dealing with inappropriate behavior and sometimes even conflict, my experiences have left a lasting impact.

Challenges and Rewards

As a director and owner of a childcare facility, I faced many challenges. One of the biggest was ensuring that my staff were presenting an appropriate image. I had to address issues such as attire that was deemed inappropriate, excessive time spent in the bathroom, and instances of unprofessional behavior. These duties, while necessary, were a stark reminder of the level of responsibility that comes with leading a children's facility.

Another notable challenge was managing a difficult employee. One teacher could not handle being a lead teacher despite only having to manage four children at a time. Unfortunately, she had to be let go due to her inability to handle her responsibilities. On another occasion, a teacher had to be replaced because of her inappropriate behavior, leaving children unattended during a critical time.

The parents also posed a challenge. One specific parent of a particularly challenging child wore five-inch stilettos daily and her daughter would often have about three screaming tantrums a day. Listening to these tantrums was part of my role, and it was not without emotional strain. Another notable challenge was dealing with a parent who literally stormed out of the school to speak to other parents, leaving the children unattended in the process.

Thankfully, I sold my business right before the pandemic. Reflecting on the experience, I hesitate to call it glamorous. Truth be told, no teacher, whether young or old, would describe their work as glamorous. The rewards are deeply personal and significant, but the reality of the job can be quite demanding.

Other Experiences and Perspectives

At the present time, I do not actively work with children. However, my career has involved various roles with kids, including working as a school bus operator, volunteering as a teacher's assistant, and babysitting when I was a teenager. These experiences have given me a unique perspective on the challenges and joys of working with children.

Some view working with children as something that is "like working with dogs but less obedient." This might be true, depending on the age of the children involved. However, the rewards are there for those who are passionate about it. For instance, my wife, who works in a challenging environment in Colombia where even a new pencil gets kids excited, finds deep satisfaction in her work.

Working with children also has its unique benefits for adults, particularly parents. Dealing with children can help one's children in the future, giving them a sense of responsibility and the ability to take care of others. This experience can shape a child's approach to different scenarios and even lead to a sense of authority over adults, creating a unique dynamic.

Conclusion

While working with children can be challenging, it is also incredibly rewarding. From developing essential life skills in our kids to dealing with everyday challenges, the job is multifaceted. The rewards may not be glamorous, but they are deeply meaningful. Whether as a director, a teacher, or in any role involving children, the impact can be profound.