Why did you decide to become an early childhood educator?
After school, I worked with children for a few years, then left to work in a variety of other sectors. After having my son, and being around friends with their young kids, my passion for working with young children steered me to making an effort to work in the industry.
What is the most valuable thing you’ve learned from the children you work with?
Empathy and patience. I feel I had plenty when I entered the industry, but this has easily doubled or tripled in the time since I started. Every child has their own needs and their own story – taking the time to learn these and help them flourish is important.
What experiences from your own life have been most useful in your work with young children?
Every day with my two year old son, something new happens. It’s a great lesson in being flexible and ready for anything.