WHOS PROBLEM IS IT?Providers have the tremendous responsibility of protecting children, as a Monitor you also share this responsibility. This fact sheet will help you to evaluate problems to assure the safety of the children.When you are faced with difficult situations ask yourself:
- Who's problem is it?
- How serious or important is this situation?
- Are the children in danger?
- Should I get others involved?
- Can the situation be fixed?
For example:
- You visit a childcare provider and she does not have any paperwork made our for her attendance or CAFP menus. She is angry that you came unannounced and she was caught with any completed paperwork. She is directing that anger at you. You are frustrated with her and discouraged because this is a chronic problem that you have addressed at every visit. Identify: WHO'S PROBLEM IS IT? It is ultimately the provider's problem, because at the very least she will have the meals served deducted and lose money on her reimbursement. She could also be terminated from the food program. HOW SERIOUS OR IMPORTANT IS THIS SITUATION? It is important for you to train the provider, and for the provider to uphold the contract she signed. But it is not life threatening. ARE THE CHILDREN IN DANGER? You have observed the provider feeding the children healthy meals so you know the children are well fed. You have also observed the Provider engaging in many activities with the children. The problem is a paperwork issue. SHOULD I GET OTHERS INVOLVED? Look at the policies of PRI and/or Bethel. You know that accurate attendance records are a protection for the children and a requirement for both CACFP and Voucher care. You may want to discuss the problem with your supervisor to determine what action should be taken. CAN THIS SITUATION BE FIXED? Yes, of course it can, but it needs the cooperation of the provider. Look at Bethel and PRI's policies, and discuss what steps need to be taken. Knowing what steps you need to take, when you need to do it, and putting the problem in perspective will help diminish the stress and frustration you may feel. At the end of the day, knowing you have taken the appropriate steps, do not dwell on the frustrations instead look at what made you smile that day. Every day will have those moments to make you smile. Sometimes you just have to look for them.