CHILDCARE PROVIDER POEMS WHEN YOUR CHILD COMES HOME MESSY

Red paint in the hair? Blue paint on the jeans? Sand in the shoes? Peanut butter on a favorite shirt? White socks that look brown? Sleeves a bit damp? YOUR CHILD PROBABLY.... worked with a friend solved a problem created a masterpiece negotiated a difference learned a new skill had a great time developed new language skills YOUR CHILD PROBABLY DIDN'T.... feel lonely become bored do a repetitive task that is babyish do worksheets that are too easy do sit down work that is discouraging YOU PROBABLY....

paid good money for those clothes will have trouble getting the red paint out are concerned the caregiver isn't paying enough attention to your child YOUR CAREGIVER PROBABLY.... was aware of your child's special needs and interests spent time planning a challenging activity for the children encouraged the children to try new things was worried you might be concerned Young children really learn when they are actively involved in play...not when someone is talking to them. There is a difference between "messy" and "lack of care." Your caregiver made sure your child was fed, warm, offered new skills and planned messy fun things to do because that's how your children learn! Send your child in clothes that can get dirty! Keep extra clothes at the site for the times when the child gets really messy. But remember, your children need time to be kids. ~~~Author Unknown~~~

ODE TO DAYCARE
Little children come to me For hugs and books and such, I care for all their simple needs And also fix them lunch I pick up toys, mop up spills, And dry their little tears, I change diapers,settle fights, And kiss away their fears. I tie shoes, button coats, And push them on the swing, I really love these kids you see, But there is one thing. Call me Mom, or Aunt, or Teacher, But please don't call me sitter, Cause I never get to sit!. ~~~~Author Unknown~~~

JUST PLAYING
When I'm building in the block room, Please don't say I'm "Just playing." For, you see, I'm learning as I play, About balance, I may be an Architect someday. When I'm getting all dressed up, Setting the table, or caring for the babies, Don't get the idea I'm "Just Playing." I may be a mother or father someday. When you see me up to my elbows in paint, Or standing at an easel, Or molding and shaping clay, Please don't let me hear you say, "He is Just Playing." For, you see, I"m learning as I play. I just might be a teacher someday. When you see me engrossed in a puzzle Or some "playing" at my school, Please don't feel the time is wasted in "play." For, you see, I'm learning as I play. I'm learning to solve problems and concentrate I may be in business someday. When you see me cooking or tasting foods, Please don't think that because I enjoy it, It is "Just Play." I'm learning to follow directions And see the differences. I may be a cook someday. When you see me learning to skip, hop, run, and move my body, Please don't say I'm "Just Playing." For, you see, I'm learning as I play. I'm learning how my body works.

I may be a doctor, nurse, or athlete someday. When you ask me what I've done at school today. And I say, "I just played." Please don't misunderstand me. For, you see, I'm learning as I play. I'm learnning to enjoy and be successful in my work. I'm preparing for tomorrow. Today, I am a child and my work is play. ~~~Author unknown~~~

A CHILDCARE PROVIDER
A willing partner for working moms, she comforts, pampers, soothes and calms. With all the love she has to share, she's great to have when mommy can't be there. She loves to rock a fussy child, corrects the one that gets too wild. She hears her share of tearful pleas, and comforts those with skinned up knees. With little children she plays games of peek, for bigger ones it's hide and seek. She is an expert at each game, but somehow loses just the same. She helps them learn the alphabet, and gives them hugs when they're upset. She gently tucks them in their beds, with dreamland tales for sleepyheads. She is a true and trusted friend, who helps them learn and play pretend. Although she's paid, it's plain to see, she serves them with a love that's free. ~~~Author Unknown~~~

TOUCHING THE FUTURE

I don't wear power suits, make speeches, or drive a fancy sports car. I've never talked on a car phone, made a big sale, or been elected to the Senate. I don't "do lunch", have a big imppressive office or carry a beeper. I spend my days wiping away tears, giving hugs, and serving chicken nuggets. A good day is when I go through a whole day without a temper tantrum, bite mark, or a toilet training accident. My "office" is a room full of brightly colored toys and laughing children. You may not think that what I do is very important and you may even whisper behind my back "what a waste of a good mind." But I know better. I make a difference because I'm changing the world one child at a time. Everyday I'm getting the once in a lifetime chance to touch the future. I'm proud to say "I'm a child care provider" ~~By Marti Doyle~~

THE HAND HOLDER ~ A Tribute to Childcare Providers

There is no job more important than yours, no job anywhere else in the land. Your are the keepers of the future: you hold the smallest of hands. Into your care you are trusted to nurture and care for the young, and for all of your everyday heroics, your talents and skills go unsung. You wipe tears from the eyes of the injured. You rock babies brand new in your arms. You encourage the shy and unsure child. You make sure they are safe from all harm. You foster the bonds of friendships, letting no child go away mad. You respect and you honor their emotions. You give hugs to each child when they're sad. You have more impact than does a professor, a child's mind is molded by four; so whatever you lay on the table is whatever that child will explore. Give each child the tools for adventure, let them be artists and writers and more; let them fly in the wind and dance on the stars and build castles of sand on the shore. It is true that you don't make much money and you don't get a whole lot of praise, but when one small child says, "I love you," you're reminded of how this job pays.

~~~ By Dori Rossmann, Executive Director - Kids Town USA ~~~

FOREVER IN MY HEART
Although I'm not their mother I care for them each day, I cuddle, sing and read to them And watch them as they play. I see each new accomplishment, I help them grow and learn. I understand their language, I listen with concern. They come to me for comfort, And I kiss away their tears. They proudly show their work to me, I give the loudest cheers! No, I 'm not their mother, But my role is just as strong. I nurture them and keep them safe, Though maybe not for long. I know someday the time will come, When we will have to part. But I know each child I cared for, Is forever in my heart! ~~~ Author Unknown~~~

TODAY
Today like millions of other Americans I went to work. I didn't design a beautiful skyscraper, I didn't write a proposal to save an endangered species, and I didn't drive a bus or fly a plane, or write a crucial bill that would someday become a law. However, I did spend time with some very important people. I read a story to an attorney, I sang the alphabet song with a Supreme Court Justice. I ate Lunch with a pastor, and patted the back of an engineer until he fell asleep. Taught a policeman how to tie his shoes, and introduced an astronaut to the color red. Tomorrow, who knows whom I'll meet, but one thing is for sure..... They will be very IMPORTANT For they are our precious children, and the hope of our very future. ~~~Author Unknown~~~

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CHILDCARE PROVIDER, BABYSITTER & NANNY

Childcare provider: A professional childcare server who contracts with a client to hold one slot out of a limited number of available slots exclusively for your child, with a pre- determined set of hours, for a pre-determined fee per year. Installments of this fee are usually paid on a weekly/bi-weekly/or on a monthly basis. This usually includes a provider who is certified in first aid and CPR. Takes classes, workshop, and attends seminars and conference to stay current on the latest techniques in dealing with age appropriate development of the children in their care. In most states these Providers have usually undergone criminal back ground checks of themselves and all members over 18 residing in their home. They are required to have regular medical check ups for all personel in the daycare home. The providers home undergoes inspections by their licensing agency and regular inspections from the state fire marshall. ~~~~~~~~~~ Baby-sitter: A person who usually watches a child in the parents home on an irregular basis, is not guaranteed to be there for the parent on a regular basis, is rarely trained in basic life support or first aid, and usually does not provide age appropriate activities for the children in their care, and is not limited in the amount of children they may have in their care at any one time. ~~~~~~~~~~ Nanny: A person hired by one family to provide care for their children on a regular basis in the child's home. As this person is an employee of the parents, it is usually up to the parents to require and pay for a criminal back ground check if they so desire. They do not have any kind of inspections by state agencies as they are the employee of the parents working in a private home.

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~~~Unknown~~~

THE SCHOOL TEACHER

Let me see if Ive got this right: You want me to go into that room with all those kids and fill their every waking moment with a love for learning; Not only that, Im supposed to instill a sense of pride in their ethnicity, behaviorally modify disruptive behavior, observe them for signs of abuse and t-shirt messages; I am to fight the war on drugs and sexually transmitted diseases, check their packpacks for guns, and raise their self-esteem; Im to teach them patriotism, good citizenship, sportsmanship and fair play, how and where to register to vote, how to balance a checkbook, and how to apply for a job; Im to check their heads occasionally for lice, maintain a safe environment, recognize signs of potential antisocial behavior, offer advice, write letters of commendation for student employment and scholarships, encourage respect for the cultural diversity of others, and, oh yeah, always make sure that I give the girls in my class 50% of my attention; Im required by my contract to work on my own time summer and evenings at my own expense toward advanced certification and a masters degree, and after school Im to attend committee and faculty meetings and participate in staff development training to maintain my employment status; Im to be a paragon of virtue, larger than life, such that my very presence will awe my students into being obedient and respectful of authority; Im to pledge allegiance to supporting family values, a return to the basics, and to my current administration; Im to incorporate technology into the learning and monitor all web sites while providing a personal relationship with each student; Im to decide who might be potentially dangerous and/or liable to commit crimes in school or who is possibly being abused, and I can be sent to jail for not mentioning these suspicions; Im to make sure all students pass the state and federally mandated testing and all classes, whether or not they attend school on a regular basis or

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complete any of the work assigned; Im expected to make sure that all of the students with handicaps are guaranteed a free and equal education, regardless of their mental or physical handicap; Plus, Im to communicate frequently with each students parents by letter, phone, newsletter and grade card; Im to all this with just a piece of chalk, a computer, a few books, a bulletin board, a 45 minute more-or-less time plan and a big smile, all on a starting salary that qualifies my family for food stamps in many states. Is that all? And you want me to do all this and expect me NOT TO PRAY? ~~~~ Author Unknown ~~~~

THE ABC's OF TEACHING CHILDREN

A ~ appreciation, for all they bring into our lives B ~ balance, somewhere between too little and too much. C ~ commitment, it's the little things we do each day that matter. D ~ dreams, to touch the future. E ~ empathy, remember what it was like to be a child. F ~ family And Friends, everyone needs someone to love. G ~ guidance, actions speak louder than words. H ~ healthy Habits, to nurture body, mind and spirit. I ~ inspiration, to explore beauty, wonder and mystery. J ~ joy, sprinkle laughter and happiness daily. K ~ kindness, to learn to care for others as they are cared for. L ~ limits, set boundaries and consequences together. M ~ mentors, to give wings to their aspirations. N ~ nature, to delight in rainbow butterflies and shooting stars. O ~ opportunities, to discover what truly makes their heart sing. P ~ play, the "work" of childhood. Q ~ quiet Time, to recharge their batteries. R ~ responsibilities, to build self-esteem and self-confidence. S ~ security, feeling safe is essential for growth. T ~ traditions, keep the family tree alive & sprout new branches. U ~ unconditional Love, for who they are, not for what they do. V ~ values, live yours and encourage them to find theirs. W ~ words Of Encouragement, You can do it, I believe in you. X ~ xoxoxo's, hug and kiss them each and every day. Y ~ you, your presence more than your presents. Z ~ zzzzzzs, a good night's sleep.

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~~~Unknown~~~

THE TWELVE DAYS OF DAYCARE

The Twelve Days of Daycare by Renee Carlson On the first day of daycare, oh what did I see? A whiney baby. On the second day of daycare, oh what did I see? 2 fighting brothers, and a whiney baby. On the third day of daycare, oh what did I see? 3 screaming toddlers, 2 fighting brothers and a whiney baby. On the fourth day of daycare, oh what did I see? 4 lost shoes, 3 screaming toddlers, 2 fighting brothers and a whiney baby. On the fifth day of daycare, oh what did I see? 5 Green Snotty Noses! 4 lost shoes, 3 screaming toddlers, 2 fighting brothers and a whiney baby. On the sixth day of daycare, oh what did I see? 6 untouched lunches, 5 Green Snotty Noses! 4 lost shoes, 3 screaming toddlers, 2 fighting brothers and a whiney baby. On the seventh day of daycare, oh what did I see? 7 late parents, 6 untouched lunches, 5 Green Snotty Noses! 4 lost shoes, 3 screaming toddlers, 2 fighting brothers and a whiney baby.

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On the eighth day of daycare, oh what did I see? 8 bounced checks, 7 late parents, 6 untouched lunches, 5 Green Snotty Noses! 4 lost shoes, 3 screaming toddlers, 2 fighting brothers and a whiney baby. On the ninth day of daycare, oh what did I see? 9 cookies in cushions, 8 bounced checks, 7 late parents, 6 untouched lunches, 5 Green Snotty Noses! 4 lost shoes, 3 screaming toddlers, 2 fighting brothers and a whiney baby. On the tenth day of daycare, oh what did I see? 10 melted crayons, 9 cookies in cushions, 8 bounced checks, 7 late parents, 6 untouched lunches, 5 Green Snotty Noses! 4 lost shoes, 3 screaming toddlers, 2 fighting brothers and a whiney baby. On the eleventh day of daycare, oh what did I see? 11 misplaced legos, 10 melted crayons, 9 cookies in cushions, 8 bounced checks, 7 late parents, 6 untouched lunches, 5 Green Snotty Noses! 4 lost shoes, 3 screaming toddlers, 2 fighting brothers and a whiney baby. On the twelfth day of daycare, oh what did I see? 12 margaritas, 10 melted crayons, 9 cookies in cushions, 8 bounced checks, 7 late parents, 6 untouched lunches, 5 Green Snotty Noses! 4 lost shoes, 3 screaming toddlers, 2 fighting brothers and a whiney baby.

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CHILDREN LEARN WHAT THEY LIVE

If a child lives with criticism, they learn to condem. If a child lives with hostility, they learn to fight. If a child lives with ridicule, they learn to be shy. If a child lives with shame, they learn to feel guilty. If a child lives with tolerance, they learn to be patient. If a child lives with encouragement, they learn confidence. If a child lives with praise, they learn to appreciate. If a child lives with fairness, they learn justice. If a child lives with security, they learn to have faith.

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If a child lives with approval, they learn to like themselves. If a child lives with acceptance and friendship, they learn to find love in the world. ~~~Dorothy Law Nolte, Ph.D.~~~

I AM A PROFESSIONAL
I am a professional. I may have chosen this line of work because I love children and I enjoy my job, but this is still my job/business. I have received specialized education and/or training to be a caregiver and educator for young children. I AM NOT A BABYSITTER; I AM A PROFESSIONAL. I AM NOT GETTING RICH. In many places childcare workers make less then public sanitation workers, secretaries and other jobs that require a lot less education and experience. I do get paid in smiles, hugs and recognition of appreciation from families. I need you to read all material and notices. I am counting on you to know the information I send to you in writing. This includes newsletters, notes and contract material. It is important that you communicate with me. Let me know in advance if there will be a change in your childs schedule, or the services you will need. If I ask you to bring in supplies for your child, please do. And make sure supplies are replenished as needed. This may include extra clothes, occasional art supplies, diapers etc. Remember your child is not the only child in my care. Although I do my best to provide individualized attention at times, I am often unable to change polices or disrupt plans to accommodate the needs of one family. Please do not send your child if they are ill. If they are too ill to participate in the days activities they are too ill to be in care. I need to protect the health of other children as well. If your child is or WAS ill, please notify me. I recognize that you are the most important person in your childs life. I hope that we can work as a partnership for what is best for your child. Please share with me any concerns or questions about your childs care and development. Work with me in

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helping your child learn, grow and develop.

WHEN I PLAY I AM LEARNING

When I smile and coo back and forth with a special adult, I am learning I can make people respond; that I am loveable. When I play with my hands and feet, I am learning that those things are a part of me and I make them move. When I turn an object over and over, I am learning that objects look different on the other side. When I make my mobile move by kicking the crib, I am learning that I can make things happen by moving my body. When I crawl into small nooks and crannies, I am learning where I fit and about shapes and sizes. When I push objects off the high chair tray, I am learning that things fall downward and are still there, even when I cannot see them. When I fill and dump containers and line things up to fit in holes, I learn that I can make exciting things happen. When I crawl up and down steps, I am learning to coordinate my arms and legs and balance. When I push, pull and haul objects, I am learning how heavy objects are and how

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they move. When I make things happen, I am learning that I have power. When I play peek-a-boo, I learn that people exist even when I cannot see them. When I lift flaps, I am learning to hide things and make them reappear. When I look at books, I am learning to use symbols - that pictures represent real things and have names. When I stack objects, I am learning about shapes, sizes, balance and gravity. When I fit things inside each other, I am learning the relationship of negative and positive spaces. When I play pat-a-cake, I am learning to have fun with someone else. When I play "Ring Around the Rosie", I am learning a game with a rule - don't fall till the end! When I imitate the actions of other children, I am learning that I am one of them and can do what other people do. When I chant sounds, I am learning the melodies, sounds and rhythms of my language. When I stick things in holes, I am learning to line things up properly to fit. When I bang objects on the floor, I am learning that things make all sorts of different noises. When I push a ball back and forth, I am learning it's more fun to be with others than myself, and it's fun to take turns. When I pretend to feed my doll, I am learning what it feels like to nurture someone. When I pretend to put my doll to bed, I am learning what it feels like to be the powerful one. When I pretend to drink from a toy cup, I am learning to use symbols - useful later in learning to read and do math. When I climb on a climber, I am learning balance and coordination to develop

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strength. When I scribble with crayons, I am learning that I can make marks by moving my hands and I can affect the shape and quality of the mark. When I line up blocks to make a road, I am learning the relationship of shapes and to use symbols. When I play with little people and cars, I am learning what it feels like to be a giant. When I dance to music, I am learning to enjoy music and to have fun with others. ~~~Unknown~~~

PROVIDER WHO LIVED IN A SHOE

There was a provider who lived in a shoe but being professional, she knew what to do. She made best use of the space she could spare and set up her home for family child care. She registered with the state, called USDA, checked in with her R&R the very next day. She knew she would need help in her situation, the answer was joining a provider association. She took CPR and First Aid classes, too and brushed up on all the things kids like to do. She advertised, interviewed, contracted, and great she counted the kids carefully--no more than eight. She fed them good foods and recorded it, too. She potty-trained Morgan, helped Kyre tie his shoe. Collected art items and made a new batch of clay and cut out cute pictures for a new theme's display. She diapered, she bandaged, she wiped every nose. She comforted Isaiah when Lianna stepped on his toes.

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She cooked and she washed, scrubbing floors, scraping glue. She recorded attendence, did her bookkeeping, too. She wrote parents notes home 'bout the kids in her care, anedotes and concerns that they'd want her to share. She read to the children while they sat in her lap and she sang to them softly when they started to nap. She called a provider who was feeling depressed, she spoon-fed a baby, then she got him redressed. She picked up and dusted when they went out the door, she updated records, picked up toys, mopped the floor. She started the laundry, checked the mail, made a list of the groceries she needed and the chores she'd missed. She collapsed in the chair and put up her feet, then in came her family wanting something to eat. She fed them all quickly, heard their stories, gave them hugs, the she rapidly washed up all the dishes and mugs. As the family retired at the end of the day she got out some books to study for her CDA. She reflects on her day, in her eyes there's a gleam, for this provider is developing pride and esteem. She works a long day and the pay isn't fair, but the kids that she works with get quality care. Their parents commute to their work each day, concerns about child care aren't in their way. They are free to produce at a marvelous rate, which benefits businesses all over the state. If you live in a big house or even a shoe, great is the work a provider can do. Be proud, stand up tall, wear a smile on your face, You are helping "tomorrow" be a much better place! ~~~Sandi Dean~~~

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THEY WILL REMEMBER

by Eileen Koscho I take care of your children. I love them. I teach them. I clean them, and I feed them. And when nighttime comes, my heart worries about them I take care of your children. I see their first steps. I hear their first words. I share their happiness, and I feel their hurts. I take care of your children, as if they were my own. And when they are grown, And no longer need me, My love will be a part of them

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deep within the heart of them. They will know that I was there for them unconditionally. And they will remember!

NOTHING IN MY BAG TODAY

Today I did my Maths and Science - I toasted bread. I halved and quartered, counted, measured, used my eyes, ears and head. I added and subtracted on the way, I used the magnet blocks and memory tray. I learnt about a rainbow and how to weigh. So plaese don't say,"Anything in your bag today?" You see I'm learning as I play, I learn to listen and speak clearly when I talk. To wait my turn, and when inside to walk. To put my thoughts into a phrase, To guide my crayon through a maze. To find my name and write it down, To do it with a smile and not a frown.To put my pasting brush away, So please don't say, "What, Nothing in your bag today?" I've learnt about a snail and a worm, Remembered how to take my turn. Helped a friend when he was stuck, Learnt that water runs off a duck. Looked at words from left to right, Agreed to differ, not to fight. So please, don't say, "Did you only play today?" Yes I played the whole day through, I played to learn the things I do. I seek a

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problem, find a clue, and work out for myself just what to do. My career sets the scene and stands nearby, To help me when I really try. They are there to pose the problems, and to help me think. I hope they'll keep me floating, and never let me sink. All this is in my head, and not in my bag. It makes me sad to hear you say, "Haven't you done anything today?" When you attend your meetings and do your work today, I will remember not to say to you, "What, nothing in your bag? What did you do today?" ~~~Unknown~~~

THE BABYSITTER POEM

Greet the kids at seven-ten, Give them breakfast, settle in, Garrett's learning ABC's (Isaiah, don't eat crayons, please) Someone's knocking at the door, (we must not finger paint the floor) Let's have lunch and then clean up (Lianna, please don't tip your cup) Baby Ulyssa's on my lap Story time and then a nap Have our snack, then go outside (the doggie can't give horsey rides) Six-'clock - the moms are here Collect the coats, paper and gear Want to see ME throw a fit? Tell me I just "BABYSIT" !

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~~~ Unknown ~~~

PATRNERSHIP
They bring their child to me and hope I'll come to know. How much the offspring means to them, their trust in me bestowed. They bring their child to me with love and hope and pride, looking for a helping hand, a teacher who will guide. They bring their child to me, and our partnership is clear: To nurture and allow to bloom a life we both hold dear. They bring their child to me, a step toward letting go and trusting in our special plan to help the child grow.

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~~~By Gloria Weber Henbesst~~~

The next 4 poems are for when A child leaves your care
(#1) Child leaving You are a very special person And you should know, How I loved to have you in my care How fast the months did go! Please come back to visit me As through the grades you go Try hard to learn all that you can There's so much to know One thing I tried to teach you

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To last your whole life through, Is to know that you are special Just because, you are you! ~~~ Unknown~~~~ (#2) Child leaving I'm glad I was your provider I've come to love you so I can't believe the end is here I hate to see you go! Remember all the fun we had In all the things we did But most of all remember. . . Your a very special kid! ~~~Unknown~~~ (#3) Child leaving "Now I lay me down to sleep, I'll count these hands instead of sheep. And think of all the friends I made, While at Christie's house I played. *** Have the kids put handprints on a pillowcase along with the poem above to give to the child leaving~ (#4) Child leaving Dear (Mom & Dad's name) I give you back (child's name), the same child you confidently entrusted in my care. I give her back pounds heavier, inches taller, months wiser, more responsible and more mature than she was. Although she would have attained her growth in spite of me, it has been my pleasure and privilege to watch her personality unfold day by day and marvel at this splendid miracle of development. I give her back reluctantly, for having spent this time together in the narrow confines of my house, we have grown close, have become a part of each other, and we shall always retain a little of each other. Ten years from now if we meet on the street, (child's name) & I, a light will shine in

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our eyes, a smile on our lips, and we shall feel that bond of understanding once more, this bond we feel today. We have lived, loved, laughed, played, studied, learned and enriched our lives together. I wish it could go on indefinitely, but give her back I must. Take care of her, for she is precious. Remember that I shall always be interested in (child's name) and her destiny, wherever she goes, whatever she does, whoever she becomes. Her joys and sorrows I'll be happy to share. Please call on me if there is anything further I can ever do for her. I shall always be her friend. (your name here)

The following 5 poems are about HANDPRINTS

(#1) My Hands These little hands can wave hello or put smudges on the wall. They can fold in prayer, throw a kiss or reach up when I say, "so tall." They will clasp your hand for an Autumn stroll Or shape a dinosaur from clay. But most of all, they will stay with you when I'm grown and far away.

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~~~ Unknown~~~ (#2) My Handprints Sometimes you get discouraged Because I am so small And I always leave my fingerprints on furniture and walls. But every day I'm growingI'll be grown up someday And all those tiny handprints Will surely fade away. So here's a final handprint Just so you can recall Exactly how my fingers looked When I was very small. ~~~Unknown~~~ (#3) My Handprints Tiny handprints grow so fast Their awkward groping soon will clasp A ball, a book, a sweetheart's hand A diploma, briefcase, wedding band. Tiny handprints grow so strong It doesn't take them very long To snap a shirt, to paint, to draw To labor hard, to drive a car. Tiny handprints grow to be A person that is quite unique A wonderful mix of so many things With his own feelings, thoughts and dreams. Tiny handprints grow to rely On his parents to bring him up just right His parents pray that when he's grown He'll say their job has been well done. Tiny handprints are ours to love The sweetest gift from God above

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A miracle that never is surpassed How sad they grow up way to fast. ~~~ Unknown~~~ (#4) My Handprints My dirty little hand print I've left on every wall And on the drawers and table tops I've really marked them all. But here is one that won't rub off I'm giving it to you Because I'm so thankful for a mother just like you. ~~~ unknown ~~~ (#5) My Handprints I miss you when we're not together I'm growing up so fast See how big I've gotten Since you saw me last? As I grow, I'll change a lot, The years will fly right by. You'll wonder how I grew so quick When and where and why? So look upon this hand print plaque That's hanging on your wall. And memories will come back of me, When I was very small. ~~~ unknown ~~~

QUOTES
"Kids are kids, and to be kids they have to play, to play they get dirty, getting dirty means they had fun, whey they have fun they are happy, when they are happy I have done my job!" ~~~Christie~~~

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WHY HANDS-ON? I tried to teach my child with books; He gave me only puzzles looks. I tried to teach my child with words; They passed him by often unheard. Despairingly, I turned aside; "How shall I teach this child," I cried. Into my hand he put the key, "Come," He said, "Play with me." ~~~author unknown~~~ "Children are like snowflakes each with their own pattern" "Children are like sponges, they absorb all your strength and leave you limp, but give them a squeeze and you get back everything"

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