Authentic
I know of nothing more valuable, when it comes to the all-important virtue of authenticity, than simply being who you are.
—Charles R. Swindoll, minister and author
Children in child care need to be around real people, not empty, fake, and saccharine role-players. Being a real person means showing when you are angry, scared, upset, or nervous—but in a respectful manner. It is important to honestly communicate what effect a child’s action has on others so that the child can learn. Expressing your authentic feelings clearly with no blame, accusations, or judgment but with honesty, dignity, and respect takes practice. Children need to know when their behavior is unacceptable. Our job is to model respectful ways to express anger, frustrations, and fears. Too often, well-intentioned providers communicate mixed messages among voice, body language, words, and actions. Children know when we are authentic.
In loving memory of Gryphon House author Leanne Grace, MEd, we are sharing pieces of her inspirational writing every Wednesday.
Leanne was the director of professional development at Hildebrandt Learning Centers and a lifelong advocate for early childhood education. She inspired the early childhood community to prepare children as lifelong learners with her ability to find the extraordinary in the ordinary. One person can make a difference, and Leanne did just that. She will be sorely missed.
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