How to Answer: How would you handle a physical altercation between two children? How do you address the issue of bullying?
Advice and answer examples written specifically for a Daycare Worker job interview.
29. How would you handle a physical altercation between two children? How do you address the issue of bullying?
How to Answer
The topic of bullying is a significant one, and every child care provider should have firm processes in place to immediately deal with a situation surrounding bullying. Some ways that daycare address bullying includes:
- Talking often about playing nice, and being kind
- Reward empathy and kindness
- Have clear consequences for bullying such as timeouts
- Regularly praise good behavior
Written by Rachelle Enns on February 3rd, 2019
1st Answer Example
"We know, as childcare professionals, that kids under the age of 3 have not yet developed the cognitive ability to be empathetic; however, we can teach it early on, and greatly encourage it by praising good behavior and having immediate consequences for behavior that is unkind. I know that kids imitate what they see so, if there were a physical altercation, I would have a meeting with both parties and their parents, to get down to the root of the issue."
Written by Rachelle Enns on February 3rd, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"Last month I had a similar situation arise, where two four-year-olds had a physical altercation that involved biting and pinching. I called in the parents for a meeting and explained the situation. The parents arranged a private play-date between the kids so they could learn to get along and trust each other. This response helped a great deal with how they got along, moving forward. I realize the importance of nipping this behavior in the bud immediately, and will not let destructive behavior to go ignored. If the situation persisted, I would recommend removal of the child from the program. Every child has the right to feel safe."
Written by Rachelle Enns on February 3rd, 2019