Toddler sibling at lessons
Found in: Scheduling, Studio Policies
Sue L., California
A mom asked me if I would teach her son and daughter on Saturday instead of our weekday time because she does not have childcare for her 4-year-old, and he is somewhat disruptive during lessons. I do not want to teach on Saturday. I know it’s not my job to solve her problem, but I was just wondering if anyone else has found a win-win in a similar situation. Possibly a creative way to keep the toddler occupied (besides the obvious electronics, which work for some of the time).
Carrie L., Michigan
I have had them bring toys in the room. It can be difficult. Feeding kids can help.
Robin Keehn, Washington
I just want to remind you (I’ve been having this conversation with a few other teachers) that you need to take care of YOU first. As committed as we are to making things work for our students, don’t compromise what you want (e.g. Saturdays off). I know from experience that at the end of the day, this is a business relationship. For the vast majority of students, if it suited them they would leave (for a less expensive lesson, for a more convenient teacher, etc). It’s simply the reality. People do what works best for them, so do what you want to do, not what you feel somehow obligated to do (because of your own needs/beliefs).
Susan M., Canada
I recently had a family who wanted me to have their son wait in the lesson too, and I spent too much time trying to decide how best to manage the situation, knowing it wouldn’t work. So I restated my policies and said as long as he wasn’t disruptive, he could stay. Then another email came that the time slot they asked for wasn’t going to work for them now and they wanted Monday (I don’t teach Mondays). I am very proud of myself (and so is my family) for not shifting for them. That was really hard for me to do!
Robin Keehn, Washington
I had a realization several years ago that I was putting other peoples’ children before min, and that was very eye-opening and convicting.
Colleen B., Canada
My children enjoy playing with the younger siblings downstairs. Win-win. I don’t know how I’ll handle it once the kids are grown, so I’m following this discussion with interest!