Discussion

Father enters the room with his 17-month-old daughter, Sandra. When the caregiver greets him, he tells her that he is upset because his daughter's behavior has become challenging since she started coming to the center several weeks ago.

He says that she will not listen to her parents and other family members, and she has started biting her older brother. The parent explains that he believes Sandra learned this behavior from the other young children at the center and that the caregivers are too permissive.

The caregiver asks the parent how he responds to Sandra when she behaves in the ways he has described, and he tells her that she is sent to her room alone for up to 30 minutes each time she misbehaves. The caregiver quickly responds that the center does not condone that kind of punishment and that it is not appropriate for older infants.

Then, with some hesitation, the caregiver explains that she needs to go outside to set up for outdoor play and suggests that they schedule a conference to discuss the issue further. Later that day, the caregiver asks if you overheard the conversation and requests your advice on how to handle the situation.

As you think about how to support your colleague in dealing effectively with this situation, notice what emotions, if any, come up for you.

Consider this situation from the parent's perspective, as well as the caregiver's perspective. Also bring to mind what you have learned about emotional and social development. Then:

Post suggestions or advice you would offer your colleague for dealing effectively with this situation.

Describe at least three principles, practices, or ideas from the Learning Resources and use your own experiences to support your response.