Casual childcare educators have an important role to play in supporting children with additional needs in the early childhood education and care (ECEC) sector.
Talent Now Educators often work in Inclusion Support roles with many of our services. Below are some ways you can provide meaningful support.
Get to know the child
Take the time to get to know each child in your care as an individual. Learn about their strengths and challenges, as well as any specific support strategies they may need.
Engage with the child, talk to them, and find out what they like to do. This can help establish trust and a sense of security.
Follow the child's routine
For children with additional needs, consistency and routine are important. Follow the child’s established routine as much as possible and provide ample notice if any changes need to be made.
Be patient
Children with additional needs may require more time to process information or complete tasks. Be patient and allow the child to go at their own pace. Offer positive reinforcement and encouragement to help build their confidence.
Adapt activities
Modify activities and learning experiences to meet the child’s specific needs. For example, provide visual aids or use sensory-friendly materials to support children with sensory processing difficulties.
By taking the time to understand and support children with additional needs, casual educators can help create a safe, nurturing, and inclusive environment for all children in their care.
Collaborate with other Educators and seek support
Collaborate with other educators to ensure that everyone is working together to support the child’s needs. Share information, strategies, and resources to ensure consistent care.
If you have questions or concerns about how to best support a child in your care, seek support from more experienced colleagues or supervisors. They can share additional insights, strategies or resources.
If appropriate, connect with the child’s primary caregivers to learn more about their specific needs. This information can help you better support the child in your care.
