Development of Children’s Independent Living Skills in Day Care Centres: Analysis of Social Workers’ Experiences

Abstract

Objectives* The aim of the research is to reveal the realities of the development of children’s independent living skills in day care centres based on the experiences of social workers. Materials and Methods Qualitative research was chosen for the study by using the method of semi-structured interview. 9 employees, who work in children’s day care centres in different Lithuanian regions, participated in the study. The obtained data were analysed by using the content analysis method. Results Social workers prepare children for independent living by developing their communication and cooperation’s skills. They teach children how to make contact, have a polite conversation, show empathy, respect the rights of others, resolve conflicts and problems constructively and resist social pressure. When developing cooperation skills, social workers focus on listening to other’s opinions, tolerance for different opinions, taking responsibility for a common goal, making decisions by consensus, providing support and asking for help. Social workers develop skills of planning and organizing activities teaching children to set real goals, plan activities, responsibly perform them and not give up in the face of difficulties. Social workers developing children self-awareness, self-control and self-confidence skills teach them to recognize their feelings and be able to express them appropriately, to know their strengths and build on them, to be responsible and dutiful, resistance to the negative influence of others, and how to calm down properly, to make their own decisions, to achieve the set goals, and to overcome the arising difficulties. Children also develop health-friendly skills: physical activity, emotional health, prevention of risky behavior and personal hygiene skills. Conclusions The study revealed that in preparing children in children’s day care centres for independent life, social workers develop their social skills such as communication, cooperation, planning and organizing activities. Social workers also develop children’s personal skills: self-awareness, self-confidence, self-control. They also develop health-friendly skills for children.