Jo and Educators

[brookeamy]

Scenario:
Milo (4 years 4 months), an only child, is a chronic asthmatic and has been in and out of hospital many times. Milo’s mother, Jane, is very protective of her son. Milo has never been away from his mother’s care – when he is hospitalised she always stays with him. Jane has tried to avoid Milo having contact with other children – she fears he will catch an infection that may trigger his asthma. Ted, her husband, feels that Jane is ‘babying Milo and fussing too much’. He has persuaded Jane that it would be good for Milo to mix with other children, to ‘toughen up a bit and learn to stand on his own two feet.’
Milo has been at the centre two days per week for the last five weeks. He has settled well and his asthma is being monitored and well managed by the staff.
Jane remains extremely anxious. Every morning she checks with the staff that they know what to do in the event of an asthma attack. Jane also gives the same instruction each day: “no running around, stay off the climbing equipment in case you fall, keep your shoes and socks on, don’t play in the water in case you get wet”.
Jane usually telephones the centre twice a day to make sure he is safe and well.
Jo, the Director, is aware that the staff find Jane very difficult and always finish with the comment “Poor Milo”.

Question:
What might Jo do to encourage staff to be more empathic towards Jane?

Answer:
Jo could explain to the staff about the situation Jane is in and remind them about Milo’s condition. She could also
- Allow the staff to know that although Jane rings to check up on Milo daily to be empathetic, positive, answer all of her questions and reassure her Milo is ok
- Let Jane know that I will keep an eye on Milo throughout the day, making sure he follows Janes instructions regarding keeping his shoes on etc
Remind staff to be supportive of Janes wishes regarding Milo

Feedback:
 What could Jo inform the staff members in regards to Milo to encourage more empathy from them. Hint: pretend you are a director at a centre and you need to make your staff aware that this parent is very stressed to leave her sickly son in care- what kind of things would you bring up with team to emphasise this?
 
I don't know what else to add, any help much appreciated!

[Lorina]

Tell Jane that the educators all have their first aid certificate, posters are put in place on what to do in case of an asthma attack, educators will assist and monitor Milo during outdoor play etc.

Explain what issues Jane has to face, explain Jane is worried about Milo etc.

,
Lorina