Hey everyone! This really is just a rant post because I just need to rant.
I’m currently an older toddler (2-3 years olds) teacher. I have been for the past 4 years. 2 years a co-teacher and 2 years a lead teacher. This is the first year (started in September) where I am by myself. The ratio where I am is 1:6. I have been having so much trouble with my kiddos it’s driving me insane. I already have my own mental health issues and it just doesn’t add to it.
When I’m trying to change a diaper, the other kids will climb on tables, shelves, and other furniture. Hit each other, throw toys, etc.
I do timers for when it’s time to clean up and give them warnings before as well as a clean up song on YouTube (just listening of course). The kids that clean up even get a sticker or a stamp. They used to do so good with this but now they scream “NO” and start to run around the room.
Our whole school does red/green choices for all classrooms. We go over them every day/throughout the day.
Nap time is the worst time. I have 4 children that will not stay on their bed, and one that will stay on their bed and call the other friends. Admin had given me strategies for nap time. Example: read a book about what we do at nap time, give them books on their beds, first nap then play (or mommy/daddy picks you up) and I have been doing all these for weeks and nothing works. I call for support but it’s still not enough. I cry almost everyday because of these things and when I try to talk to parents they don’t seem interested.
I’m constantly thinking I’m doing something wrong because some of my kids with listen to other teachers but not me. My admin says I’m doing everything I’m supposed to but then why is none of it working?
My day today was just so bad and I needed to rant to other child care professionals.
Thank you for reading my rant.