At my centre we were recently told we aren’t allowed to comfort/cuddle children anymore when they are upset. We can no longer let a child sit on our lap, even when reading. And outdoors we can no longer sit with a group of children and engage in an activity.
To me, this makes me feel like a harsh robotic person. Aren’t children supposed to be comforted when upset? And aren’t we supposed to engage in activities with the children? Even outdoors some activities would require sitting. Such as sandpit/gardening for an example.
I was always told to get down to the child’s level. Not stand over them.
We can no longer give out stickers or stamps because it’s seen as “grooming “.
I understand the sector needs to change with every thing that’s unfortunately happened. But cold, distant and disengaged educators aren’t healthy for children.
I feel so disheartened. I can also see many of my colleagues have stepped back from caring about the children and are merely just going through the motions of the day. They are also quick to criticise me for being warm and caring.
It’s like it’s impossible to do anything in this sector now.