4 Different Teaching Styles - #1 Waldorf

This is the first day to our 4-day series of teaching styles! 

Children learn in a variety of ways. Through play, music, experience and imitation, kids absorb information around them like sponges. In this 4-part series, I will go over a few of the popular teaching philosophies we see today. Each of these teaching styles have their own history and background as well as distinct values and practices. 

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First up, Waldorf education! This style began in Germany back in 1919 and is all about creative play. Waldorf's rich curriculum encourages children to learn by interacting with music, myth, theater, writing, dance, language, and nature. Young Waldorf schooled children are taught to explore both artistic expression and social capabilities from a young age. Secondary school introduces critical thinking and idealism to the mix, encouraging the use of imagination. Throughout a child's time in a Waldorf school, the goal is to combine intellectual, practical and artistic themes to create free, morally responsible and creative individuals that are socially competent. 

Teachers of the Waldorf style (whether parent, teacher or tutor) create an environment that is nurturing and which encourages learning through imitation and experimentation. The "teacher" will demonstrate various activities such as baking, gardening, painting, building etc. to stimulate the little ones' imaginations. Creative and free play is supported. 

As the children grow older, their curiosity grows, leading to experimentation in poetry, music, writing and art. By stimulating a sense of awe from a young age, critical thinking skills are developed. 

A few things that play huge roles in Waldorf education: colors, simple objects, handwork, daily rhythm, forts, musical instruments, natural toys and many more. Below are a few examples of Waldorf inspired activities to check out thanks to Alina's Adventures,  :) 

- Candle illuminated paper scenes 

- Nature painting and stamping

- Peek-a-boo sprites

 

Sources:

http://www.creativechild.com

http://www.alinasadventuresinhomemaking.com

http://www.whywaldorfworks.org

 

Uh Oh...How Should I Fire My Nanny?

One of the risks with hiring a nanny is the possibility that it may not work out. It is never fun or enjoyable to let someone go, but sometimes it simply has to be done, especially if your children are involved in the equation. 

There are many reasons to fire a nanny. It's possible that the children are grown and do not need a caregiver anymore. Or perhaps the nanny has horrible work habits - always late or a frequent 'no show.' Maybe the nanny who was a wonderful nurturer of your infant does not have the energy to deal with your demanding toddler. The possibilities are endless. 

Whatever the reason may be, there is a general protocol when letting someone go. You have to be firm while also making sure to cover all the bases. 

The Nanny Network explains the process in detail but here is the general gist of it. 

When it is for practical reasons:

You may need to fire the nanny for reasons beyond her control. One of the parents may have lost their job. Perhaps your family is relocating. Your baby may be starting full time kindergarten and your needs have changed. Recognize that this will come as a blow to the nanny. Take the time to show your appreciation by writing a nice letter of recommendation. Provide ample notice to the nanny - if you know your nanny won't be needed in September when school starts, let her know a few months in advance. Provide severance pay. 

When the nanny is a disaster: 

She doesn't show up on time, parks the children in front of the TV all day, and the only food she prepares is PB and J. You have met with her to go over your expectations and nothing improves. Generally speaking, families are most comfortable delivering the bad news, effective immediately, with a week's severance in lieu of notice. Families don't want to leave their children with a nanny who is disgruntled.

When the nanny is a liability: 

She is endangering your children. You catch her failing to use the car seat or seat belts. You find drug paraphernalia in the house. She is asleep on the couch when you come home and the children are playing in the front yard. You need to act immediately. Severance is not required under these circumstances. The nanny should return your house keys and be gone immediately. This may disrupt your schedule at work for the next few days, but it has to be done.

Now of course, we hope this never happens but just in case, you will be prepared! 

Rules for Hiring a Nanny AND a Housekeeper

We have been receiving a slue clients coming to us looking for Nanny/Housekeepers.  Having a staff of ladies coming in and out throughout the week is becoming very unappealing for families and so they are choosing to combine a few jobs into one.  

This is a very doable task, however, there are a few guidelines we feel are necessary to note if this is something you are looking for. 

1) Be realistic.  Sorry folks, no one is able to clean a nursery at the snap of a finger like Mary Poppins.  Trust me, I wish it was possible.  Unfortunately, no can do.  SO, make sure your list of duties is clearly listed and laid out for your Nanny/Housekeeper.  She is going to need TIME to complete everything on the list while also taking care of your little one.   

2) Schedule properly.  We have found a great technique for scheduling is to have the Nanny be strictly "Nanny" for however many days you require, and then have her come in one day and be "Housekeeper".  This way, all of her attention is set on the task at hand and she is not overwhelmed.  Of course, when she has her Nanny cap on, she will attend to light cleaning and picking up but save the deep cleaning for a day when she can have minimal distractions.  

3) Quality.  Remember, hiring a Nanny/Housekeeper is a COMPROMISE.  This position attracts a different type of candidate.  You will probably not get the same level of education and certifications as a you would if you hired a professional Nanny.  Keep this in mind. 

4) Money.  In the long run, you will most likely be saving money by hiring a Nanny/Housekeeper.  You are combining a few jobs into one paycheck.  However, you must be sure to compensate your new hire properly.  Our average Nanny makes about 18-20 hourly as a part of this agency.  A Housekeeper makes around 25 hourly and a Chef, even more, at 45-65 hourly.  So you want to take all of these numbers into account when discussing money.  We have found that paying around 25 hourly (net) seems to work out well for our families as well as our candidates.  Always, ALWAYS properly take care of your help :) 

You are hiring someone to be a member of your family and we understand it can be a major decision and process.  Always ask detailed interview questions and go through the proper security measures to ensure safety and harmony when finding your next Nanny, Housekeeper, Chef etc.  Good luck on the search!!