Kinderopvang Prins Vleermuis works with the Gordon Method. The Gordon Method is a way of communicating with children and with each other. Thomas Gordon was an American psychologist who saw similarities among his clients such as a power relationship between leader and subordinate and the relationship between a parent and a child. A child and a parent need not have a power relationship between them. Parents can consult with a child, give the child a voice and empathize with a child. Terms such as the “I or me message,” “active listening” and a “win-win situation” occur with us every day and our leaders can tell you all about it. Thomas Gordon has designed trainings and written books for parents and among other educational professionals. ‘The Gordon Method is an internationally protected method of working that is primarily concerned with promoting fun and balance in relationships and preventing and resolving conflict without losers. This way of relating to others leads to greater independence, self-confidence and growth in both educator and child (Gabeler, 2009)
The educational professionals at Kinderopvang Prins Vleermuis speak with the “I message” to indicate what is going on in them and so that they are clear to others. As children reach the age when they start talking, children will also learn to communicate from the “I message”. By telling what they feel, mean and think, this also encourages other children to put their feelings and thoughts into words. All this is done at eye level with the child, so that no power relationship is created that way either.
By actively listening, the Pedagogical Professionals try to promote the child’s feelings and perceptions (this can be done, for example, by listening, summarizing and asking through) through which a child will notice that the Pedagogical Professional is trying to understand and help the child and is taking them seriously. When children have a conflict we observe the children in resolving the conflict. When necessary, the Pedagogical Professionals will help by asking the children questions about the cause of the conflict, naming feelings of both children and asking questions about a possible solution. When the children reach a solution together, you have a win-win situation and the children can then get through the same door together again. Our Pedagogical professionals receive regular training and constant coaching. Interns are also welcome to attend courses and they are also constantly coached to use the Gordon Method. Therefore, you can expect the staff at Prins Vleermuis to communicate with you, your child and each other in a respectful manner and according to the Gordon Method.