Interactions between Childcare Professionals and Infants in Childcare

In light of today¿s economic and social context challenges, families increasingly find themselves in need of childcare. Mothers are increasingly working outside of the home prior to their children formally entering school. In 2010, 64% of women with children younger than age six and 61% of mothers with children younger than age three were in the labor force. Yet discrepancies remain as to identify what constitutes quality childcare, especially in regard to underserved communities. Fiene (1992) notes, ¿Thousands of children are at risk each day because their providers do not know how to provide a stimulating environment, and these programs place them in dangerous environments¿ (p. 13) This still holds true today. Some examples of dangerous environments may include, unsafe play areas, minimum to no supervision, hazardous play areas, and verbal aggression from caretakers. Therefore, it is essential for early childhood professionals to understand how their interactions and behaviors influences children in their care. This book provides an overview concerns in childcare programs and recommended practices for owners/directors, non-profits, education systems, and governments.