End The Whining
We all know how draining and irritating a whining child can be, especially in a day care environment where a chorus of multiple whiners can seriously challenge your sanity. A full blown, short lived tantrum is way preferable to the constant, ongoing, nerve grating torture that is a whiny child. Fear not, it is possible to deal with the offending whinester and restore some semblance of peace and tranquillity.
Many whining scenarios are precipitated by simple factors such as hunger, tiredness, boredom and feeling unwell. Attempting to identify if any of these are the triggers can help minimize the whinefest. However, sometimes whining has simply become a way of communicating for some children and, if not dealt with can continue for many years as a very unattractive trait. Though there is no sure fire way of curing whining there are methods you can use to help prevent outbreaks.
Attracting adult attention can often be the reason a child whines usually as a last resort. The whine is the final result of their escalating attempts to gain recognition. Adults, we have the power to acknowledge the little ones. You can often preempt the annoying behavior by simply listening to what kids are trying to say. Get down to their level and find out what's going on. Sometimes a little face time, perhaps doing some quiet activity is all it takes. Peaceful times can often be achieved via a little constructive attention.
Children need to learn the difference between various tones of voice and discovering how whining sounds is no different. Explain to the child that a whiny voice is not pleasant, that people don't like it and they stop listening. Help them to understand the negative effect of that sound by involving them in role play or tape recording the whiny voice versus the normal voice. Listening to themselves as a third party can be effective in helping them understand why whining is bad. Remember to praise the use of a normal voice when appropriate.
An inability to express herself will cause a child to whine. Try to recognise when this is the case and instead of reprimanding try to help the child verbalize their needs. Encourage the child to tell you what is wrong, what she needs and help her with the words. Discussing feelings and needs means the child has less reason to whine. This positive attention will help her to understand that talking about her issues is a lot more productive than whining.
Distraction is a great tool when a child is whining. Completely switching the subject and animatedly pointing out something unique and fun can stop the whines dead in their tracks. 'Did you see that squirrel out there?' Also, recognise when a kid is heading towards boredomsville...a bored child is a whiney child. Anticipate tedium and introduce a fun and absorbing activity. A busy child won't have time to contemplate whining.
A child seeking recognition recognises any attention as a success so don't do negative attention. Try not to shout. Never label a child a whiner - this is not a standard or expectation you want to set for them. Never capitulate and remain calm. Giving in after 20 minutes of incessant whining sends a message to the child that persisting with this behavior pays off. They must realise that only a normal voice elicits a positive response. It's tough but stay the course and you could have a positively serene enviornment.
You can find more childcare articles at Fiona Lohrenz's website where you'll also find her 'Start a ChildCare Business' DVD guide: Start A Day Care Business DVD She has a lot of knowledge to impart having run her own daycare for 10 years. You can find her at her website: ChildCareOnly.com
Published May 27th, 2008
Filed in Business, Home Business