Adults often feel guilty about self-care, but do we want our children to feel guilty too? Young children need time to recover from stress and busy lifestyles, just like adults do.
Early childhood educators understand the importance of self-care in the workplace, but may not realise it is a teachable moment. Educators can act as self-care role models, demonstrate self-care practices, and teach children to care for their own wellbeing.
Self-care is closely linked with health, mental health, relaxation, bodies and beauty.
EYLF learning outcomes
Self-care learning experiences can be incorporated into the Early Years Learning Framework so children become strong in their social and emotional wellbeing (3.1), feel safe, secure and supported (1.1), and take responsibility for their own health and physical wellbeing (3.2).
Learning experiences
Act out self-care
Develop dramatic play scenarios where children use puppets, stuffed animals or dolls to explore the concept of self-care. Children can also role play scenes themselves. Educators should let the children direct the play but they can provide resources and verbal support as required.
To teach children about taking care of their own bodies, provide a pretend medical kit. You can also set up a pretend day spa or hair salon in your classroom.
Feel cosy and comfortable
- Create a calming sensory bin with soft objects and textures (e.g. velvet scraps, kinetic sand or water beads). Children can glide their hands through when they need a soothing moment.
- Build a cubby house or set up a play tent. Add blankets and pillows for warmth and comfort.
Care for a pet or plant
Children can learn about caring for themselves by caring for something else. Plants and pets both need caring for and children can actively participate. Talk about what animals, plants and humans need to feel safe, loved and happy.
Get physical
Self-care is often associated with relaxing activities. However, early childhood educators should remember that exercising is also an important part of staying healthy. Many children crave physical activity and can't sit still for lengthy periods of time.
Provide opportunities for children to run, jump and shout regularly. Explain that this too can be an act of self-care.
Celebrate
Organise a celebration day with decorations, games, music and party food. Ask each child in your class to choose something they want to celebrate. Maybe they are really good at building block towers or have just learned how to ride a bike. Some children may celebrate being a good friend or having good friends.