Do's and Dont's (Rainy Day Schedule)

Here in California, we enjoy quite a bit of sunshine.  We are not equipped to deal with large amounts of rain - for long periods of time.  Bad things happen.

 Not that I don't love the rain, or enjoy all the greenery in the springtime if we have a good season.  However, I'm a preschool teacher.  Let me rephrase that.  I run the toddler program at a childcare center.  I used to teach preschool. Although I do write out all my curriculum and sprinkle in as much learning as I can - in the most creative ways imaginable... I think, at this point you could say I can change a large toddler's diaper in record time, while singing Twinkle Twinkle Little Star, and wiping a nose or two.  Yes.  All at once.  It can be done, and this is just reality.  I'm not a braggart, but I am super proud of my minimal achievements.  ;-)

As soon as you have all the kids sitting in a nice circle, or lined up pristinely for the next activity, you inevitably smell or see something that requires your immediate attention, and your scheduled and "STRUCTURED" activities take a back seat.  When parents ask me about our schedule at school, and what our routine is like, I first stifle a laugh, and then proceed to run down my list of activities that we loosely abide by throughout the day.  Yes, we have a structure and daily schedule that we stick to.  It's what happens in between and during those times that make my job oh so very interesting.

Some days when I'm at work, I think about moms of multiples.  Then I thank the good Lord that I can send these precious children home at the end of the day and lock the doors to come home to my quiet house devoid of diapers (for the moment) and screaming tantrums.  Well, the occasional hormonal outburst and  door slam from a 12-year-old can be incredibly annoying - but it happens rarely, and this I am thankful for.

Anyhow, back to the whole RAIN thing.  We are not equipped with a gym, an indoor playground, or much in the way of awnings, or any sort of freakin shelter!  When a storm blows in - we spend the day inside, and try not to lose our minds or develop a nervous twitch that may or may not ever go away.  So, here is my list for all you teachers, caregivers, parents, babysitters and grandparents who find yourselves in a room with small children - and really no way out.  Please tweak and change any wording that does not apply to you or your situation to best fit your needs. Or just feel free to laugh and be grateful that you are not me. The Do's and Dont's (Rainy Day Schedule).  Or snow too!

DON'T panic when you get to work Tuesday morning, and your co-teacher is throwing up with a fever and has to go home.  11 two-year-olds are counting on you.  Also, hope and pray that whatever she has - you aren't going to catch it.

DO farm out some of your children as generously as you can to other teachers and classrooms (so you can stay in ratio) and not lose your mind, while thanking them profusely and telling yourself that it's going to be a great day....and just keep smiling.  Seriously.  If you make super stressed out or sad faces with toddlers, they will cry. Loudly. 

DON'T underestimate the power and joy of floating balloons in your classroom and happy toddlers chasing them....for 20 whole entire minutes, and no tears.  Amazing.  Also, one word.  Bubbles.

DO let yourself cry  quietly on the inside when you find out your co-teacher will be out for the rest of the week. Insert your very own, "Worst News Ever" here.  It's okay to feel sad and scared.

DON'T scream back.  Ever.  No matter how much you want to.  Unless it's your own child.  Then have at it.  The shock factor is well worth the stupefied and mortified look that forms across their face.  Just better to use this last resort tool for only the most desperate situations - when you need instant relief.

DO ignore and walk away from unspeakable and preposterous gut bellowing tantrums.  We have to do this when it's not our own child, and it's effective with your own.  It's hard, but when you are trapped inside with said child.  It's really your only sanity saving option.  Place child in an area where they can't harm themselves or others and walk away.... sometimes while twitching.  Only give them your attention when they have stopped frothing at the mouth.  When they have calmed down and are ready to cooperate, try to give hugs even if you don't want to.  It's amazing how much it helps calm YOU down as well. 

DON'T feel guilty about resorting to The Wiggles, Dora, Barney, or any other strange entity that will encapsulate the mind of a small child via an electronic box.  Just try to use it sparingly and on a schedule.  Nothing is worse than having absolutely nothing left.  Cashing in all your chips at once.

DO dance. Spin. Twirl. Jump. Laugh.  Turn up the music.  Let it get loud at times.  Small plastic outdoor toys, floor mats, hoops, cones, masking tape.  These things can turn any old classroom or garage into a virtual and amazingly fun indoor playground.  Just make sure that this is an earned activity.

DON'T hesitate to participate.  Although it's nice to catch your breath.  Kids need your guidance and interaction to help keep them on task.  Don't ever set out finger painting materials and walk away.  Ever.  No matter what the age.

DO make rest, nap time, and bedtime a non-option.  It is what it is.  It comes at the same time every day and night - and it's the law. Even if a child has a hard time falling asleep, or doesn't nap.  A quiet and calm interlude during the day is required for your sanity.  Hugs, kisses, I love you's, and Goodnight!

Now go and enjoy your 3-day weekend!  You earned it.