Q. I have worked at a private day nursery for nearly two years. In that time, I have been scratched, head-butted, bitten, kicked, had a chair thrown at me and taken abuse from the children, who are aged between two and five years old. I find it difficult to go to work each day wondering how many bruises we will receive. How should we deal with such behaviour?
A. Step back for a moment and take a detached overview of the issues. Why do you think this behaviour is having such an effect on you? Is it because it seems to be directed at you personally? Because it disrupts your carefully thought-out plans for all the children? Because you believe that these children aren't as happy as they could be, and you somehow feel guilty? Because you don't think you can successfully manage their behaviour?
Register now to continue reading
Thank you for visiting Nursery World and making use of our archive of more than 35,000 expert features, subject guides, case studies and policy updates. Why not register today and enjoy the following great benefits:
What's included
-
Free access to 4 subscriber-only articles per month
-
Unlimited access to news and opinion
-
Email newsletter providing activity ideas, best practice and breaking news
Already have an account? Sign in here
