KUALA LUMPUR: Home-based daycare operators should make an effort to register with the Welfare Department and obtain an operating licence.
Early Childhood Care and Education Council president Datuk Dr Chiam Heng Keng says operators should not use “high demand” from parents for their service as an excuse not to register and obtain a licence.
“Because there is always demand for babysitters and childcare givers, they may think it is okay not to register and obtain a licence.
“Malaysia is far behind when it comes to the professionalism of babysitters and childcare givers, and we should change this.”
She says home nursery operators must take pride in their job and not do it for the sake of money.
“Those taking care of children should go for training even if they are operating from home.
“Child-minding is not just physical custodian care, they must also help with the child’s growth. The child needs to know that they are being loved too.
“Nowadays, with all the scientific findings, it is more than just physical custodian care. You need to help the child grow mentally and physically.
“Good experience is very important, such as how you talk to a child. You need to make sure
they are being loved. Also, the way you feed a child, do you do it mechanically or with love?
“When feeding, we should have eye contact with the child as it will give them the sense that you, as the caretaker, are paying attention.
“The sense of love is important for the child, to give them
a sense of security. These things are important and it doesn’t come naturally. You need training.”
She says through training, a child-minder will be able to understand why a child cries, whether he or she is in pain, is hungry or just wants attention.
She says it is crucial for the government to make the courses affordable.
“It is important to invest in early childhood care. In other countries, governments invest a lot
in early childhood care.”
Chiam says parents must be vigilant when choosing nurseries.
“Nowadays, both parents work to make ends meet due to the rising cost of living.
“Nonetheless, they should not choose convenience over safety of their children as it may lead to tragic consequences.”
Chiam says after sending their children to the babysitter’s or childcare givers, parents should learn about the early signs of abuse in their child.
“Never ignore any signs and follow your parental instincts. These signs are important. Your children may want to tell you something, so listen to them.”
She says some babysitters know where to pinch a child for “misbehaving” or to discipline them in a way that will not leave marks.
In July last year, the discovery of
5-month-old Adam Rayqal
Mohd Sufi’s body in a freezer at his babysitter’s house shocked the nation.
In November, the Women, Family and Community Development Ministry drew up a checklist for home-based babysitter selection, outlining five aspects that parents must look into before selecting a babysitter. By Nor Ain Mohamed Radhi