My Supports

There are many support systems in my life. One of the biggest one is my family. My husband is very supportive of me and my job. When I come home and I am upset, he lets me rant on for hours if need be. Sometimes, he take our two year old son off my hands and allows me quiet time during which I am able to relax. My two year old son helps me relieve stress because he makes me laugh every morning. He gives me hugs during the day and makes me laugh when we go to bed. My son is also the reason why I became interested in the field of early childhood education. He gives me a reason to do what I do.

In my work, I have a great boss who supports me in every decision I make. She has an open door policy and provides me with good advice. In addition, I have a great assistant who works independently and does all tasks I give her in a timely manner. This takes a great deal of stress of my plate and helps me focus in areas that I need to focus on.

I also have set up practical support to remind me of trainings I need to give, observations I have to do and other lists that help me track my time in an efficient manner. Establishing lists helped me find effective ways to ensure all tasks get done before I run out of time.

One of the biggest challenges I have come across is parent satisfaction. Our program runs a Preschool program and the majority of our parents expect us to teach their children academically. It is frustrating at times to talk with parents since they do not understand our program. They want their children to do worksheets, be able to calculate, read and write by the time they start kindergarten. They do not see or understand all the different areas children need to evolve in to ensure school success. The type of support I need in this situation is a strong team. Teachers in the classroom have to ensure that children receive a well rounded education. I need my assistant to sit with me during parent conferences to see what I speak with parents about. In addition, I need by boss to back me up when parents come to complain to her about situation that I like this and also educate the parents about our well rounded curriculum.
My husband supports me by letting me rant about parents and asking me questions that make me see things from a different perspective. My son supports me by just making me laugh when I am mad forgetting my troubles for a little while. I think without my support system, my life would shift out of balance. Having no-one around to talk with you and make you feel like you are valued in what you are doing is a horrible thought. Everyone needs strong ties to get through the day without going insane. Sometimes all you need is an open ear.