In a day care environment a chorus of multiple whiners can seriously challenge your sanity and we all know how draining and irritating a whining child can be. The constant, ongoing, nerve grating torture that is a whiny child is much harder to handle than a full blown, short lived tantrum. Don't despair, you can restore an atmosphere of peace and serenity by implementing the following methods thus dealing with your offending whinemaster.

Many whining scenarios are precipitated by simple factors such as hunger, tiredness, boredom and feeling unwell. Attempting to identify if any of these are the triggers can help minimize the whinefest. However, sometimes whining has simply become a way of communicating for some children and, if not dealt with can continue for many years as a very unattractive trait. Though there is no sure fire way of curing whining there are methods you can use to help prevent outbreaks.

Attracting adult attention can often be the reason a child whines usually as a last resort. The whine is the final result of their escalating attempts to gain recognition. Adults, we have the power to acknowledge the little ones. You can often preempt the annoying behavior by simply listening to what kids are trying to say. Get down to their level and find out what's going on. Sometimes a little face time, perhaps doing some quiet activity is all it takes. Peaceful times can often be achieved via a little constructive attention.

Discovering how whining sounds can help children understand the difference between various tones of voice. They need to be taught that people don't like, and won't listen to a whiny voice because it is not pleasant. Use role play or record them so they can conceptualise the difference between a whiny and normal voice thus helping them understand the negative effect of the former. Allowing a child to hear himself may help him grasp the idea that whining isn't so hot. Normal voice usage should be praised also to reinforce this positive behavior.

A child will whine when she is unable to express herself. Instead of reprimanding a child in these instances try to help her verbalize her feelings or needs. Help her with the verbage so she is encouraged to tell you what is wrong. The child will have less reason to whine when she has the opportunity to discuss her feelings and needs. The realisation that talking about her issues is more productive than whining will result from your positive attention.

Distraction is a great tool when a child is whining. The whines can be silenced by completely switching the subject and animatedly indicating something fun. 'Did you see that squirrel out there?' A bored child is a whiney child so recognise the signs of a kid on the road to boredom city. Anticipate tedium and introduce a fun and absorbing activity. The whining option won't be considered when a child is busy.

A child seeking recognition recognises any attention as a success so don't do negative attention. Avoid yelling. Never label a child a whiner - this is not a standard or expectation you want to set for them. Finally, remain calm and NEVER give in to whining. Though you may be gnashing your teeth stick to your guns. Giving in after 20 minutes of incessant whining sends a message to the child that persisting with this behavior pays off. The child will learn that you respond positively only to a normal voice. It's tough but stay the course and you could have a positively serene enviornment.

You can find more childcare articles at Fiona Lohrenz's website where you'll also find her 'Start a ChildCare Business' DVD guide: Start A Day Care Business DVD She has a lot of knowledge to impart having run her own daycare for 10 years. You can find her at her website: ChildCareOnly.com