The power of belief

As a behaviour consultant I help childcares prevent challenging or unsafe behaviours.

Last year, I was asked to support a toddler room. However, this gig was different. The little guy I observed didn’t display any challenging behaviours.

I discovered why they called me. The teaching team worried about his development. And I didn’t blame them. That’s because he didn’t respond to his name, play, understand directions and eat without being fed.

I knew this was going to be a long journey.

Thankfully he had an amazing support team rooting for him. His educators were kind, patient and open to try new strategies. And his mom accepted to find a private practice to test for a potential diagnostic.

After a couple of weeks, I noticed some educators weren’t sure if the teaching goals were possible.

Here’s what they were:

·      Respond to his name across the room.

·      Eat with a spoon and fork by himself.

·      Follow simple 1–2-word sentences.

·      Play for 5 minutes or more.

They didn’t know if they had the expertise. This belief was starting to affect their motivation, energy, and mood.

I am a strong believer that our mindset is the first step to achieving success. It starts with a belief that it’s possible. This is what helps us continue for the long haul.

Sometimes a goal can seem out of reach. I’ve experienced this countless of times. This is why breaking them down in small, doable steps is important. And as we’re successful, we inch closer and closer.

A few days ago, my co-worker gave me an update on the child. She was beaming with joy. She told me how proud she was of the teaching team. Thanks to their hard work, the little guy has achieved all the teaching targets. And now they’re adding new ones.

This wasn’t an easy feat. This took one year of consistency and teamwork. And now he has transferred to the senior toddler room. His new educators are continuing to expand on what’s been done.

But it all started with a belief.

I am sincerely grateful for what you offer children. Your love, patience and support allow them to become better versions of themselves in the future.

With all my love,

Alex