by Rima Madi
Caring for infants and toddlers is a labour of heart. Many think that caring for them is a childminding job that requires the caregiver to sit and watch their full potential unfold by providing an environment that carries appropriate materials. However, the literature is informing us otherwise. The principles of care along with our code of ethics and the early learning framework are providing us with a solid body of research towards involving infants and toddlers as active citizens in a democratic practice that respects every aspect of their well-being and their integration in a social milieu that is based on the practice of relationships (Makovichuk et al, 2014).
Many of us find infant and toddlers cute. Vasta et al (1995) stated that “According to ethologists, aspects of baby’s physical appearance may be innately ‘cute’ and so elicit caregiving” p.446.
Their large head, round faces, and chubby legs elicit care, respect, and admiration. There is a charm about infants and toddlers that motivates caregivers to smile and be joyous. I just can’t help but smile and get close to play with them.
The principle 5: Respect infants and toddlers as worthy people from Magda Gerber’s work illuminate the caregivers’ approach towards caring for infants and toddlers (Gonzalez-Mena and eyer, 2011, p.11).
Merriam Webster defined the verb respect as “to consider worthy of high regard” (webster.com).
Respect indeed is our action towards others where we choose to not belittle them and treat them with inferiority, but rather treat them as equal partners worthy of dignity and consideration. Respect as an action; everyone deserves it.
Gonzalez-Mena and Eyer (2021) stated that “Children who are treated with respect are more likely to be respectful to others than children who are not” (p.39).
The ripple effects of respect will render it a great human value for peace and harmony not only in a childcare environment but everywhere.
In the context of caring for infants and toddlers, respect looks like the following to me:
- The way the caregiver carries themselves around children.
- The tone of voice when speaking to children.
- The words that the caregiver chooses to use in their communication with children.
- The attitude that the caregiver carries when dealing with challenging behaviors.
- The quality time the caregiver spends with them.
- The kindness and compassion when tantrums arise.
- Responding to their needs to the best of our ability and promoting freedom to move and explore.
- Asking for their permission before carrying, hugging, and touching them, and walking them through the procedures of caregiving rituals and daily routines in a way that prepares them for what’s to come.
Nevertheless, explaining our actions to infants and toddlers and walking them through the process during the special one-on-one interaction of the caregiving routines is caring. Authentic care respects the child as a human being who is competent and capable. In this perspective, the pedagogy of care encourages caregivers to engage in reciprocal exchange that value the child as a partner. “Following one of Emmi Pickler’s principles, we find ourselves doing it “with” children instead of doing it “to” children” (Amslee Institute).
References
- Amslee Institute. 2019. What are the pickler principles for infant development. AmsleeInstitute.com.
- Gonzalez-Mena, J. & Eyer, D. W. (2021). Infants, toddlers, and caregivers: A curriculum of respectful, responsive, relationship-based care and educations (12th ed.). McGraw-Hill.
- Makovichuk, L; Hewes, J; Lirette, P; & Thomas, N. (2014). Flight: Alberta’s early learning and care framework. Library and Archives Canada.
- Merriam Webster Online Dictionary. Definition of respect. Retrieved on January 12 from: https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/respect.
- Vasta, R.& Haith, M; M. &Miller, A; S. (1995). Child psychology. (2nd edition). New York. Authentic care is a partnership.
