Career Coach

Top Ten Ways To Have A Good Relationship With Your Child's Caretaker

by Lynn Berger

Having a good relationship with your child's caretaker is essential to your child's optimal growth and development as well as your sense of peace and contentment as a parent.

1. The key is to constantly communicate. Maintain open lines of communication.
   
   
2. Share your concerns and the positive feedback you receive regarding your child with them. For example, after your parent teacher conference,tell them the areas mentioned that need attention as well as the areas of strength that were discussed.
   
   
3. Let them know that you really care about their feelings and that their feedback is appreciated and essential. They will begin to tell you things about themselves and your children when they know you truly care.
   
   
4. Learn what motivates them and how you can utilize their strengths when interacting with your child.
   
   
5. Find out about their family and invite them to visit your home. If they have appropriate age children or grandchildren, invite them to your child's birthday party and/or other appropriate family events.
   
   
6. Speak to them daily even if it is for a few moments. Give yourself time together when they arrive and when they leave. This is also helpful for your child to transition from the caretaker to the parent(s).
   
   
7. At least once a week spend a longer amount of time asking if there is anything that you need to know. Be direct, don't assume you will hear some valuable information unless you ask.
   
   
8. Reward them well financially. Remember they are responsible for your most valuable asset(s).
   
   
9. Put things in perspective (e.g., a broken glass or a scratched floor) -- accidents happen. Be grateful it is only an object and not anything more important related to your child's well-being.
   
   
10. Attempt to learn from them. Sometimes your caretaker may have child-rearing experience that could benefit you and your child.