Extracts from this document...

Introduction

What makes a successful Early Years Practitioner? In recent years the need for qualified Early Years Practitioners has risen immensely. There are now much more than nursery settings and foundation classes. Early years establishments are growing at a rapid rate, due to more and more parents needing to work. Research from various sources shows children progress socially at a faster rate when mixing with other groups of children, and it helps increase self esteem, so parents who do not need to work will use the services of an early years practice. Workplace cr�ches are now commonplace as are college and shopping mall cr�ches. Places such as playgroups, mother and toddler groups and out of school clubs all need good qualified early years practitioners to create the environment and support needed by today's children. Unqualified staff working in early years settings are encouraged to gain some formal qualification to gain the insight into good practice in the provision of child care. This is actively encouraged throughout their career, to keep up to date with current practices. Trained staff have a positive effect on children's social development and understand the learning needs of children and how best to provide it. ...read more.

Middle

They should be clearly labelled and within reach of the children. The play equipment should be organised into age group suitability. The childcare provider has to organise staff and have good team building skills. He/she would have to put a plan in place in case they were called away unexpectedly. They need to organise staff making sure staff/child ratio is correct. Parents and children need an approachable and friendly practitioner to make them feel welcome and give them confidence to discuss any issues which may arise. Parents can give the practitioner an insight into their child's needs, which may not be immediately apparent to practitioner, this could prove beneficial. The practitioner should take an interest in the Childs family ensuring they are happy with the care given and making sure parents feel comfortable in raising any concerns they have no matter how large or small. A dedicated practitioner that offers a reliable service to its users is of utmost importance. Reliability ensures the provider is there at all times expected. If a child and parent expects to see the provider at drop off and pick up times it is essential the provider is there. ...read more.

Conclusion

To summarise I believe the three most important qualities an early years practitioner should have are: * Organised - An organised establishment is a safe establishment. Without good organisation the provision could prove dangerous to its users. For example not enough staff working one day to care for children. Play equipment not maintained could be fatal to a small child. * Reliable - parents and children depend on this person and need to know he/she will be there providing the service expected. * Job satisfaction - if the practitioner is unhappy in their work it will reflect badly on the service they provide. Children would pick up on the carer's negative feelings and the practitioner would be unable to create a happy secure setting. A person who enjoys their work will communicate better with parents and children on all levels and build more positive relationships. I believe childcare establishments are improving dramatically. In recent years the ownership of providing learning and not just childcare has taken place. Many more staff are trained and I believe funding should be available for all early years staff to gain formal qualifications. Early years staff would then be in a position to offer parents informative advice and help answer the many questions asked by parents. Tracy Wimbles Calderdale College 01/05/2007 1 ...read more.

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