Pacific Union Conference
Office of Education
Volume 18, No. 5
Winter, 2019
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Avoiding Burnout
Self Care for the Caregiver
By Shari Thompson
No doubt as an Early Childhood Professional, you have heard these sayings: “If you don’t take care of yourself, how can you care for someone else.” Or “ You can’t pour from an empty cup”.
It may be cliché but it is really truer than you know. Teacher turnover in the Early Education field is high compared to other professions. As a profession, ECEC teachers are typically underpaid compared to the work responsibilities that are expected of them. So it is truly a calling that is put in our hearts, not for the monetary reward, but to see the smiles on those little faces as we shape their lives for the future.
Thus, it is vital to stop periodically, do some self-reflection and evaluate what you can do to alleviate stress and burnout in your daily life. Children need us to be the calm in their storm.
Stress comes in many forms and for many people the signs include: Insomnia, Fatigue, Depression, Increased Illness or missing work, Anger or Irritability and Loss of Interest in Daily Activities.
Each individual also has triggers that cause their stress such as: Overtime at Work, Difficulty in Relationships, Financial stresses, Lack of Sleep, and Illness. Many demands are made of us these days and it is important to know what your triggers are and how you react to stress. Just ask yourself: What is stressing me out?
Not all stressful issues are solvable today. But, there are things that we can do to help us get through each day in a more effective way. Here is a simple list to give you ideas, but you decide what works for you and do it every day!
10 Tips to Self-Care
- Eat Healthy foods and drink plenty of water.
- Take a walk – get fresh air and exercise every day.
- Talk to a trusted friend or counselor.
- Keep a journal – write it down.
- Take a hot bath with Epsom salt.
- Take 3-5 deep breaths.
- Listen to music.
- Engage in Small Acts of Kindness.
- Turn off all Electronics! Be in the moment.
- Start your day with God. Ask him to be with you. He wants to spend the day with you and hold your hand. Keep your eyes on him daily. Isaiah 26:3 “You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast, because they trust you.”
Whatever you choose to do, commit to one thing today that you will do for your health and well-being. As you learn to care for yourself, you will shine the light of Jesus and be his hands and feet to all those around you!
 Shari Thompson
Director - Sacramento Adventist Academy Child Development Center |
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If you have not already checked it out, the Pacific Union Conference ECEC Directors' Guide has some great tips on how to avoid burn out. On page 36 you will find a section called How to Avoid Burnout. One of the areas discussed is some of the bumps and lumps that undermine the effectiveness of a director and how to avoid those areas or work through them better. (Click on book cover)
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Resource book:
A Child Care Professional's Guide to Reducing Stress and Avoiding Burnout
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California Senate Bills to Watch
Compiled by Jamie Sanbonmatsu
Director -Valley View Children's Center
We have been keeping an eye on several Senate bills that could affect early childhood private and faith based programs. Last year AB 1754 was delayed to a vote until some amendments were made, such as a mixed delivery system.
There are several other bills being brought forward this year to support the implementation of AB 1754. I would encourage you to follow the bills and legislation as the new session begins. We can also reach out to our legislators and help be part of a solution to keep opportunities for parent choice available.
- AB 123 - Early childhood education: state preschool program: transitional kindergarten: access: standards.(2019-2020)
- AB 124 - Preschool Facilities Bond Act of 2020
- AB 125 - Early childhood education: reimbursement rates.(2019-2020)
It is important that we be aware and voice our concerns to be part of the solution. As a Faith-based organization we know we have the power of prayer for support and guidance, and our faith in God already having a solution on how to move forward.
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If one of your goals is to drink more water, try some flavorful waters for a pick-me-up during the day. (Click on Picture)
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Join the Pacific Union ECEC Professionals Group Facebook page for great ideas and discussion.
Can't wait to see you there!
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| For resources to help you in your ECEC program go to the Pacific Union Conference web page for helpful resources. |
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