Supervised Visitation Guidance

Building Trust and Comfort in Hospital Sitting Services

Mobile Childcare: Safe Learning at Home

Understanding Trauma-Informed Care

5 Tips to Help Children Adjust to Hospital Stays

Grace Over Grit: Relieving Stress When Working With Small Children

 

Working with small children is one of the most rewarding callings—and also one of the most draining. From temper tantrums to potty training mishaps, it's easy to feel overwhelmed or burned out. As educators, caregivers, and leaders, we must protect our peace while pouring into others.

Here are some faith-led and practical tips for relieving stress when working with little ones—so you can lead with joy, not just survive the day.

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1. Start Your Day with Stillness

Before the chaos begins, spend 5–10 minutes in prayer, journaling, or silence. Ask God for patience and strength. Meditate on a scripture like:

"Be still and know that I am God." — Psalm 46:10

A quiet start centers your spirit before the day pulls at you from all directions.

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2. Create a Rhythm, Not Just a Routine

Children thrive on predictable environments—but so do you. A rhythm allows for flexibility without pressure. Set time blocks for play, cleanup, meals, and rest, but leave room for grace when things go off track.

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3. Keep a Calm Corner (For You, Too)

We always create calm-down areas for children, but do you have one for yourself? Keep a cozy chair, a diffuser, or a verse card nearby to reset between transitions. Even 60 seconds of deep breathing can shift your entire mindset.

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4. Release the Pressure to Be Perfect

You were never called to be perfect—you were called to be present. Give yourself permission to make mistakes. Show children how to apologize, recover, and try again. That, too, is a lesson in grace.

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5. Reflect and Reset After Work

Instead of carrying stress home, reflect:

• What went well today?

• What can I release and leave behind?

• What do I need to pray over for tomorrow?

This helps you reset, not replay, your day.

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Faith-Filled Affirmation:

"God, I thank You for entrusting me with these little ones. Help me respond with love, lead with peace, and rest in Your grace. I release the pressure to do it all, and I receive Your joy as my strength."

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Helpful YouTube Resource:

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This video offers simple strategies like breathing tools, calm-down kits, and classroom rituals to ease stress in early childhood environments.

 Building Reading Stamina in Middle School with Newsela

Helping middle school students build reading stamina can feel like a challenge, but with the right tools, it’s absolutely achievable! Newsela offers engaging, leveled texts that make reading accessible and enjoyable for students of all abilities. Incorporating Newsela into your classroom encourages students to stay focused on reading longer, improving comprehension and critical thinking.

One effective strategy is pairing Newsela articles, like this one on New ELA Strategies, with additional enrichment assignments. These could include journal reflections, vocabulary exercises, or even group discussions. By blending these activities, you create opportunities for students to dive deeper into the text while sustaining their interest.

Encouraging consistency is key! Dedicate a set time for Newsela readings each day to help students build stamina over time. Whether you’re teaching remotely or in person, this approach ensures every learner has the tools to succeed.