Border Crossings: Early Childhood Teachers' Experiences in Healthcare Settings

The experiences of eight New Zealand early childhood teachers in the months following their appointment as hospital play specialists were studied. This paper focuses specifically on the challenges they faced in acquiring role-related knowledge and skills, establishing a professional identity, and gaining a sense of belonging. Initially the teachers found the transition to their new role overwhelming and threatening to their understanding of themselves as competent teachers. Despite this, the teachers were found to be resourceful in coping with change, in building relationships, and in developing and adapting their practice.