Working with special children and youngsters in a residential setting is a rewarding job! Nevertheless, it is a highly sophisticated concern that needs proper attention in terms of knowledge and skills.
After all, you will not be just an employee, but a person who will be available for them all the time and help them in their most difficult times.
If the idea of taking care of children reminds you of “how simple and easy it would be”, you are wrong. Let’s assume, for any household work to be done; no one would hire someone with no experience and qualifications rather pay extra to someone who did.
Professionals, therefore, need to have a precise understanding of the job duties that involve recovering children who might have been harmed, abused, or sexually harassed.
While professional experience and skills are the leading concern in this setting, here are some other crucial things that simply can’t be avoided.
Dedication to Work with Special Children
There could be plenty of reasons that involve children being in residential care, but that doesn’t mean they don’t have expectations and ambition.
Thinking ahead, knowing their caliber, and finding ways to boost their strengths requires patience and dedication. Giving support in their sufferings, especially when they want communication, helps them realize their self-worth and esteem, which in turn improves their life outcomes.
However, as a part of child-care in a residential setting, it is crucial to do your job professionally. And, to ensure this, diploma in leadership and management for residential childcare can help you achieve your goals working in residential care.
Have a Keen-Eyed Observation
While working in a residential setting can be worthwhile when seeing kids develop, it can be challenging too. You should remember that these special kids and youngsters can become vulnerable- some might have experienced trauma or be abused.
Some might be struggling with their learning disabilities, or some want to sense the things around. This can reflect on their behavior itself, which becomes challenging for residents and staff members.
It is thus essential for caretakers to remain patient and practice how to de-escalate certain incidents. Knowing the youngster well will keep you a step ahead before things become more vulnerable.
Try To Create a Comfortable Environment
One of the major challenges that come to work in a residential setting is to see the world through their eyes. You might have to work with children who have autism.
For instance, a random change you experience in your lives is regular for you, but might look entirely different for those with autism. It is thus essential to empathize with them to better understand their point of view. This will not only improve engagement, but also ensure a well-spent time in their comfort zone.
Encourage a Fun Atmosphere
Children who are in care need proper care and attention to start their young life happily. They still need to experience things to compete with their peers. Creating fun and homely atmosphere is vital, allowing them to feel safe and secured.
Try to work one to one or in a small group with fun and engaging activities that encourages them. Having a great sense of humor is another recipe in making kids’ experience more enthusiastic. Moreover, keeping things appealing, maintaining certain boundaries is a great beginning working with them.
Flexibility in the Shift Timings
Since service-user requirements and complexities are different, you might have to work in evening shifts, on weekends or holidays. While some agencies permit you to choose your preferred shift, you can work in occasional sleep-in shifts if you are looking for full-time employment.
Conclusion
Perhaps the imperative thing to remember children and young people should feel supported and motivated by you. If everything is going well, it is a pretty good sign that indicates they are growing better!