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If you are searching for a cushy career then swerve steadily away from childcare because this is one career that involves a lot of work and responsibilities as well as the ability to nurture various relationships and roles. A safe and effective day care environment depends upon the intricate role of the day care worker and all the complex relationships inherent in same.

The first major relationship that springs to mind is that of the worker/child. A worker should never be content to simply be a caregiver but should see their function as encompassing the enrichment of the child's experience through facilitating the creative, learning and play environment. A caring, warm and consistent personality is essential and should be cultivated.

Many and varied are the necessary skills of the day care worker. These include an eagle eye on a safe environment, the ability to facilitate the learning of the independent child, giving that child the necessary support to participate in learning activities, encouraging individuality and self confidence, recognizing that each child develops at their own pace, encouraging caring personalities in the classroom and buckets of patience.

It is vital that all workers in a day care environment work well together. The needs of the children are paramount and as such effective teamwork is essential. Communication, cooperation, understanding and respect are key elements of the workers' relationship. Chaos and confusion can ensue should one person misunderstand or disrespect the objectives and focus of the day care service.

Constructive criticism and plans for improvement can result following regular review and planning sessions which will also develop positive communication and interaction between staff. A comment book coupled with frequent verbal updates can provide effective daily communication. Ensuring continuing standards and regular monitoring of staff progress can only be achieved through scheduled management evaluation of staff.

Management should encourage, and make accessible, ongoing and relevant childcare training for all staff (who will already be suitably qualified from the outset). Thus support and supervision of staff at all times is a given. A senior member of staff should be available in a mentor/supervisor role, a healthy working place both physically and emotionally should exist, management should be approachable and pay adequate - all this leads to the environment necessary for workers to perform their duties effectively.

Finally, a very important, yet often overlooked relationship is that of worker and parent. The best interests of the child depend upon successful and open communication between workers and parents. Both parties should be on the same page when it comes to the development of the child. Clear and concise day care policies and procedures should be readily available for parents so there are no gray areas. Encourage and welcome all parental involvement and input.

These are just some of the skills required to work with children successfully and meaningfully so if you are not ticking all the boxes you might want to consider another career. There is a lot to think about when considering a career in childcare however, for the right personality this can be a very rewarding and satisfying profession.