The Unsung Heroes of the Pandemic

The doctors, the nurses, the firefighters, the police, the teachers, and the grocery store workers… throughout the Covid-19 pandemic, accolades have been made to the individuals working in these professions. Their hard work and sacrifices are extraordinary and we are thankful for their work over the past couple of years.

But today I’m taking a moment to pause and reflect on a group of individuals who have been the unsung heroes of the pandemic. They are the forgotten essential workers. Today I’m acknowledging the child care professionals.

In the last few waves of the pandemic, child care workers have struggled with much of what everyone across the world experienced… from disruptions to their work schedules, the worries for a sick loved one, countless uncertainties, to limited interactions with friends and family. However, what makes them heroes is that while being submerged in their own fears, struggles, and concerns, the childcare worker continues to be the light in the storm.

They are the rock and foundation for the children and families in their program. They connect with the children, care for the children’s needs, create playful provocations, read books, serve snacks, document the day’s events, navigate challenging behaviours, clean and sanitize rooms, change diapers, communicate with parents, and do so much more on a daily basis.

Yet in the midst of their everyday work, there is the challenge of suppressing the anxiety, fear, and stress that working in these times causes.

Their commitment to the profession allows families to continue to work and attend classes. The child care professional’s diligence, in turn, bolsters and supports the economy – because, without them, families can’t earn a salary, and without a salary, our economy suffers. We experienced it first-hand – when child care centres shut down in March 2020, it was felt throughout society.

The childcare worker is the forgotten essential worker and today we shine a light on them and say thank you…

Thank you for your hard work.

Thank you for smiling (yes, we can see those smiles through the masks, and we appreciate it).

Thank you for caring for the littlest citizens of our society and giving them an opportunity to experience fun and joy in their days.

Thank you for the compassion you show to families who are struggling to adapt to this new “normal”.

Thank you for recognizing that these are unusual times for families to be raising their children and being sensitive to the challenges they face.

Thank you for providing a safe space for our children.

Thank you for your love and passion for early learning.

Thank you for dancing and singing with our children.

Thank you for giving and loving.

Thank you for showing up.

Whether you are a Bambini Early Learning and Child Care Professional or you work for another child care program… thank you. You are amazing, you are valued, and you are appreciated.

Bambini Learning Group is a Reggio-inspired, holistic child care program located in Edmonton, Alberta. Their vision is to inspire families to live healthier, more meaningful lives. Through innovative, holistic, and supportive resources, Bambini is helping children live the authentic childhood they deserve. New locations coming soon! Contact Bambini for more information about their unique, holistic child care program at [email protected], or book a tour to see Bambini for yourself!