My name is Douina and I have been working in Kideo's 2+ group for a year and a half now. I had no experience in
childcare yet and on my first day at work I was already amazed at the children's self-reliance. How nice it is to see what a two-year-old toddler can already do on his own. I expected that I would have to do everything for the children. Clean diaper, dressing and undressing, putting on coat and shoes, but when I got to know the children and
Kideo's vision better, I discovered that I underestimated the children. Children enjoy doing things themselves and they can do this faster than most people realize. The pedagogical policy of Kideo childcare is based on the
vision of Emmi Pikler .
At Kideo we encourage children's self-reliance
The children are allowed to develop at their own pace and in a safe environment. All
pedagogical staff motivate the children to try everything themselves. This involves trial and error and we believe that the power of repetition works. By
approaching children in a positive way , they enjoy becoming independent. It often happens that a child puts on pants backwards. This doesn't matter at all. "You did that well!" Children's self-confidence and self-image increase through compliments. According to the Dutch orthopedagogue JFW Kok, the educational relationship is based on trust, love and respect. When a child feels secure, a child will feel confident enough to explore optimally in its development. In many cases, children themselves indicate when they are ready to try things for themselves. This is also called intrinsic motivation.
Anticipate and motivate
When you notice that a child wants to do something himself, you can anticipate this and motivate it. Every child is different. So look carefully at what a child needs. You can explain what is expected, give tips, demonstrate something or lend a helping hand. It's okay if it doesn't work right away. Keep practicing and if it causes frustration for a child, you can also leave it alone for a while. There will come a time when it will work out.
