Mom brings toddler to lessons
Found in: Coaches
Joy O., Alabama
I teach two different groups in which a home school mom brings a toddler along to the lessons. Sometimes the toddler’s noise distracts me, and generally the toddler has mom’s attention, so the mom is unable to pay attention to the lesson and be the life coach. I’m looking for advice–how have you dealt with a similar situation?
Robin Keehn, Washington
Here’s an idea that has worked for me in the past. Ask the mom to put together a SM lesson time collection of toys and activities that ONLY comes out when they’re in your class. It doesn’t work all the time but it does work some of the time. I also had a place in the back of my room that was toddler friendly (carpet on the floor, safe space that they couldn’t get hurt in).
Cheri S., Utah
And the activities have to be things the toddler can do independently.
Joanne D., Australia
I have a spot at the back of my room with a few puzzles (suitable for 3 years and older), matching games, stuffed animals, and a bag of scarves for siblings to play with during lessons. I teach a few families where there are three kids – so it keeps the siblings busy. One mom brought a DVD player with headphones for her little guy to keep busy.
Jacqui G., Canada
Be honest with the parent about your concerns. Investigate the possibility of arranging for a preteen neighbor or adult student to come in and babysit during the class. The parent pays for this, or you split the cost.