A survey revealed that of every 100 people working in early years childcare only 2 are men.
One of the main problems as I see it though, is the media and their scaremongering reporting. If any man shows an interest in working with children, it is almost automatically assumed that he must be some kind of Paedophile. It's the same reason that scout leaders and other similar organisations are having men leave in their droves.
Personally I also feel that it would be really difficult for men to work with young children with the current climate. I know with my two girls, when they play with me, they often want to climb all over me or get me to throw them in the air or spin them round. It is different from the playing they do with their mum, it has a much more physical aspect. Yes there are also times when they want to sit on my lap and read a book, or have a cuddle and watch CBeebies.
It is sad that fear has put us in a situation where rules a regulations prohibit natural play. What can you do though? From child protection training that I have received (I help out in a youth club sometimes) I know that those who want to abuse children are devious and will try to get themselves into a position of trust. (Just look at how many priests and school teachers are splashed in the media)
BBC News Story
[url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/education/7838273.stm]The BBC[/url] said:Single mothers appear to be particularly concerned, with 66% saying they would like a man to be involved in their child's development.
However, of the parents questioned, 59% said there was not a single man employed at the nursery to which they sent their child.
One of the main problems as I see it though, is the media and their scaremongering reporting. If any man shows an interest in working with children, it is almost automatically assumed that he must be some kind of Paedophile. It's the same reason that scout leaders and other similar organisations are having men leave in their droves.
Personally I also feel that it would be really difficult for men to work with young children with the current climate. I know with my two girls, when they play with me, they often want to climb all over me or get me to throw them in the air or spin them round. It is different from the playing they do with their mum, it has a much more physical aspect. Yes there are also times when they want to sit on my lap and read a book, or have a cuddle and watch CBeebies.
It is sad that fear has put us in a situation where rules a regulations prohibit natural play. What can you do though? From child protection training that I have received (I help out in a youth club sometimes) I know that those who want to abuse children are devious and will try to get themselves into a position of trust. (Just look at how many priests and school teachers are splashed in the media)
BBC News Story