Wellbeing for Early Years Practitioners
- debbietheearlyyear
- Aug 1
- 2 min read
Nurturing the Nurturer: A Wellbeing Reminder for Practitioners
As practitioners dedicated to the wellbeing of others, it’s easy to forget that your own wellbeing is not a luxury ,it’s essential. Day after day, you care and nurture others. Yet, in the quiet moments between sessions or shifts, how often do you pause to ask yourselves: How am I?
In the pursuit of caring for others, we often underestimate the importance of caring for ourselves. Research consistently shows that practitioner wellbeing directly impacts the quality of care they provide. Compassion fatigue, burnout, and emotional exhaustion are not signs of weakness; they are signs of prolonged giving without adequate replenishment.
Here are some gentle reminders and practical strategies to sustain your own wellbeing:
1. Mindful Transitions Between Sessions
Take a brief pause during your breaks to reset. A few deep breaths, quick walk around the block, stretching, and mentally preparing your mind to re- enter the room.
2. Boundaries Are Compassionate
Setting clear boundaries around work hours, availability, and emotional investment doesn’t diminish your care for others. Instead, it preserves your capacity to show up fully, day after day.
3. Seek Peer Support
No one understands the weight of this work like fellow practitioners. Regular peer meet ups, or informal check-ins can be a lifeline, offering perspective and shared understanding.
4. Prioritise Micro-Restorative Moments
Rest doesn’t always mean taking a week off. Small, consistent restorative practices, a walk outside, moments of stillness, listening to music or podcasts accumulate over time and buffer against burnout.
5. Reconnect with Purpose
Remind yourself regularly why you chose this path. Reflect on moments of impact, personal growth, and the meaning derived from your work. Purpose is a powerful antidote to fatigue.
6. Normalise Your Humanity
You are not immune to stress, sadness, or uncertainty. Embracing your own humanity enhances your empathy and authenticity.
You Matter Too.
Remember that you, too, are deserving of care. Taking care of your wellbeing isn’t about reaching an end point , it’s what keeps your passion ,energy and impact going strong for the long run.
If you would like to discuss this in more depth or any other topic regarding life as a practitioner, then please email debbie.theearlyyearsspecialist@gmail.com
©Debbie- The Early Years Specialist
Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for informational and educational purposes only. While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy and usefulness of the content. Debbie-The Early Years Specialist makes no representations or warranties regarding the completeness, reliability, or suitability of the information for any particular purpose. The blog is provided “as is” and may not be distributed, sold or altered without prior permission from Debbie-The Early Years Specialist.
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