By: Jacqueline Thibault & Alexia Lapensee Scenario #22 By: Jacqueline Thibault & Alexia Lapensee

Scenario Mark, a teen parent has sole custody of his two-month old son, Justin. He is raising his child with his parents and he has just received a subsidized space in your child care centre. He hopes to return to high school to finish his education. He wanted to be a pilot but he knows that this type of work will not mesh with his parenting responsibilities. During the orientation period, You can see that Mark has built a strong and loving attachment with his son. The staff have enjoyed his presence and unfailingly good humor over the past week in the busy infant room. During the last day of orientation, as Mark is leaving with Justin, he seems unusually quiet. You approach him and haltingly he tells you that he is having second thoughts about leaving Justin. He is quick to reassure you that it is not because of the staff but he just doesn’t think he can bring himself to be separated from Justin. How do you help Mark and Justin through this difficult transition?

What Benefits of the Separation could there be?

Benefits of the separation? Having higher earnings each month to provide for Justin. Justin is more likely to complete high school or go to college. Able to participate in helping the child with their homework when they reach school age and get involved in school activities (Confidence boost). Your organization skills will grow and a schedule will be made(This is beneficial, especially as a new single dad).

Can you Think of Any Possible Benefits of Having Justin in Daycare?

Benefits of childcare? Regular Schedule and Activities for Justin. Smoother Transition to Kindergarten (If Justin stays in daycare from infant, toddler, preschool). Having Time with Peers (Socializing). Interactions with Other Adults. Good Support for Parent. Tracks Child’s Development.

Relate to the Parent’s Situation Good use of “I” phrases could help. I would tell the parent, “ I understand exactly how you are feeling right now. When I had my daughter and had to go back to school I was nervous, worried, and was left wondering if what I was doing was good for my daughter. Looking back I am so thankful that the educators reassured me and helped me through it. I am glad I finished because now I can provide for her and be a good role model.”

How do you Think the Educators Could Help?

How the Educators Can Help Show the parent learning stories. Share pictures of the child having fun through-out the day in various activities. Share positive things that the child has done or a funny story about their child. Share milestones the child has met. Share new interests the child has.

Reference Askarinam, L. (2016, February 19). When Low-Income Parents Go Back to School. Retrieved from The Atlantic: https://theatlantic.com/education/archive/2016/02/when-low-income- parents-return-to-school/470094/ Landon, D. (2017, April 6). How Going Back to School as a Working Single Mom Can Benefit Your Kids. Retrieved from Sheknows: http://www.sheknows.com/parenting/articles/1133226/back-to- work-single-parents West, L. (2016, August 25). Six Benefits of Daycare for Young Children. Retrieved from CCA: http://childcareadvantage.com