So am I in the wrong for this?

[Anonymous]

I work at a daycare. 2 year old classroom. Had a new child start this past week. The child just turned 2. I can't clean when they're in there. They go over to the toys where I just sprayed and me telling them not to touch to put it in their mouth because it will hurt them but they do it anyway. I have to clean there hands and face multiple times a day. The morning teacher told me to give them toys to play with while I clean the others. That didn't work and the other kids got upset because I told them to clean up but the other child could still play. The other kids sit down with a movie. I don't see how that is fair to the other kids. I can't not clean. It's either take him to another class or stick him in a high chair. I don't know what else to do. His mother started to work there too. I appreciate the advice from other teachers but... they don't have to worry about cleaning everything with kids in the room. I do. It'd be different if I could get an answer from the child but I don't get anything. He runs from the room if the door is open for a split second and doesn't respond to his name or speak. Any ideas moving forward?

[Oliverlogan263]

Oh man, that's a tough situation. As a girl working in childcare, you have to balance keeping all the kids safe and cared for while still getting our work done.

A few things I would try:

- Talk to the director. Explain your concerns properly about leaving cleaning supplies out and this kid getting into everything. See if you can move him for a trial period.

- Have a caret teacher work 1-on-1 with him while you clean. Even if it's just for 15 minutes so you can do a quick wipe down.

- Clean when he's napping if possible. Some kids nap earlier or later you can use that time.

- Try engaging toys for distraction. Not movies necessarily cause it’s not fair like you said. But something fun with cause and effect that holds interest.

- Talk to his mom too. See if there's insight into his behavior or ways you can work together.

- Document everything clearly in case it keeps being an issue. CYA while trying solutions first.

It's a tough balance but communicating openly is key. You gotta do what's safest in the long run. Hopefully they can help problem solve with you instead of just “advising” from a distance! Let me know how it goes, girl.

[laly520]

u gotta have a discussion with that child's parents