Palak has worked in early learning for 14 years and is the 2IC and Educational Leader at Choklits in Ringwood. She holds a Diploma in Early Childhood Education and Care.

Over to Palak…

I love working in Early Childhood Education and Care because I have the opportunity to make a meaningful difference in children’s lives during some of their most important years of development. Every child is unique, with their own personality, interests, strengths, culture, family experiences and ways of learning. I feel privileged to be part of their early years and to create an environment where every child feels safe, valued, respected and included.

One of the things that inspires me most about early education is creating inclusive and safe environments where children can be themselves. I believe children learn best when they feel secure, accepted and confident that they belong. A safe environment is not only one where children are physically protected, but also one where they feel emotionally safe to express their feelings, ask questions, make mistakes, explore and develop their own ideas. I believe every child deserves to feel that their voice matters and that they have an important place within the learning community.

My personal teaching philosophy is that relationships are the foundation of learning. Before children can fully engage in learning, they need to develop trusting and respectful relationships with the educators and people around them. When children know that an educator genuinely cares about them, listens to them and understands their individual needs, they are more likely to feel confident to explore, communicate and participate. For me, building relationships means taking the time to get to know each child, listening carefully to what they are communicating and responding with patience, kindness and understanding.

I believe that relationships also extend beyond the child and educator. Strong partnerships with families are an important part of providing quality education and care. Families know their children best, and I value the knowledge, experiences and perspectives they bring. By working collaboratively with families, educators can develop a deeper understanding of each child and provide experiences that are meaningful, respectful and responsive to their individual needs and background.

Inclusion is another important part of my philosophy. I believe every child should have opportunities to participate, learn and succeed regardless of their abilities, culture, family background, communication style or individual circumstances. I aim to create learning environments where differences are respected and celebrated rather than seen as barriers. This can involve adapting experiences, providing different ways for children to communicate and participate, and ensuring that resources, books, activities and learning environments reflect the diversity of the children and families within the community.

I also believe children are capable and competent learners. Rather than always providing answers or directing their learning, I believe educators should encourage children to explore, investigate, make decisions and develop their own understanding. I see my role as supporting and extending children’s learning through thoughtful interactions, open-ended questions, intentional teaching and meaningful experiences. I want children to develop confidence in their abilities and to see themselves as active participants in their own learning.

Early childhood education is also about learning through play. Play gives children opportunities to explore their interests, develop social skills, solve problems, express creativity and make sense of the world around them. I enjoy observing children during play because it provides valuable insight into their interests, strengths, relationships and learning. These observations help me plan experiences that are purposeful while still allowing children the freedom to lead, experiment and discover.

What I love most about working in early education and care is knowing that the small moments can have a lasting impact. A kind interaction, encouraging a child to try something new, helping them solve a problem, listening to their ideas or simply being there when they need reassurance can contribute to their sense of confidence and belonging. I believe educators have an important responsibility to create positive early experiences that help children develop a strong sense of identity and a love of learning.

Ultimately, I love this profession because it allows me to build meaningful relationships, support children as they grow and create an environment where every child feels that they belong. My philosophy is grounded in respect, inclusion, trust and the belief that relationships are the foundation of learning. When children feel safe, supported and valued, they are empowered to explore their world, develop their strengths and become confident, capable learners.

Throughout my career in early childhood education and care, I have been most proud of the journey I have taken over the past 14 years. During this time, I have had the opportunity to grow professionally, build meaningful relationships with children and families, support fellow educators, and contribute to creating positive and inclusive learning environments.

One of my greatest achievements has been progressing into the management team, where I have spent the past four years. This has been an important milestone in my career because it has allowed me to take on greater responsibility and contribute to the broader direction and success of the service. Moving into leadership has also challenged me to develop new skills, including communication, teamwork, organisation, problem-solving and supporting educators to achieve their professional goals.

Another achievement I value is the professional growth that has come from working in different roles and taking on new responsibilities. My 14 years in the sector have taught me that early childhood education is a profession that requires continuous learning, reflection and adaptability. My four years in management have strengthened my understanding of leadership and reinforced the importance of working collaboratively with educators, children and families.

I am proud not only of the positions I have held, but also of the positive impact I have been able to make through those roles. Whether I am supporting a child, guiding an educator, working alongside a family or contributing to the wider team, I aim to approach my work with patience, respect and a genuine commitment to quality care and education.

When I’m not at Choklits, I enjoy watching good movies, playing soccer with my children, and love to travel.

One of the most beautiful things about working with children is that they often say the simplest things that stay with you for a long time. Children are naturally honest and expressive, and sometimes a small comment from them can make your whole day.

One moment I remember fondly was when a child came up to me during the day, gave me a big smile and said, “I like it when you play with us.” It was such a simple comment, but it meant a lot to me. I enjoy getting involved in children’s play, whether it is playing soccer, joining their games or simply sitting with them and listening to their ideas. Hearing that the child noticed and appreciated those moments made me feel happy and valued.

Wanni has worked in early learning for 1 year and is an Educator at Choklits in Ringwood. He holds a Diploma in Early Childhood Education and Care.

Over to Wanni…

I love working in early education and care because I believe every child is unique, capable, and deserves a safe and supportive environment to learn and grow. I enjoy building relationships with children and supporting their development through play, curiosity, and meaningful experiences. My philosophy is to encourage children to feel confident, respected, and valued.

Throughout my career, I’ve been most proud of my journey in early childhood education and the opportunity to support children during their important early years. I have developed my skills through study, placements, and working with children, and I feel proud when I see children gain confidence, learn new skills, and enjoy their experiences.

When I’m not at Choklits, I enjoy traveling, exploring new places, and watching movies. I value spending quality time with my family and friends, learning new things, and continuing to grow both personally and professionally.

A child once gave me a drawing and said, “I drew this for you because you are my friend.” It was a small but meaningful moment that made me feel special and reminded me of the strong connections and trusting relationships we build with children.

Karen has been a Early Childhood Teacher at Choklits Child Care Ringwood for several years. She has a Post Graduate Diploma of Early Childhood Teaching and a Bachelor of Primary and Secondary Teaching. Karen has experience as a primary school teacher and enjoys early childhood teaching, particularly at the kinder stage of development but is comfortable working across all rooms. She began her love of teaching children as a swimming teacher and carried this out, on and off, for 20 years.

Over to Karen…

Welcome to the team Elly!

Elly has joined our growing Choklits team in our Pre-Kindergarten and Kindergarten Room.

Elly finished Year 12 last year and is undertaking a traineeship with us to obtain her Certificate III.

Elly has done over 1000 hours of volunteering in child care and is very passionate about working with children. She believes that “Children need to experience differences to be happy with theirs”.

Elly has cerebral palsy and works with her abilities to manage for this.

We are very happy to welcome Elly to the Choklits community and look forward to being part of her training, development and supporting her in her studies as she supports our early learners in their own study.

Over to Elly…

My passion for early childhood education stems from a desire to create an inclusive environment where every child feels safe, valued, and welcome. Early childhood is a beautiful, rapid time of growth, and I love being the person who guides children through their first social interactions, emotional breakthroughs, and creative discoveries. To me, this work is about honoring the unique cultural background and identity that each child brings into the room. By building a strong sense of belonging and partnering closely with families, I get to ensure that every child—regardless of their starting point—gains the confidence and skills they need to thrive. Witnessing their unfiltered curiosity and daily milestones is incredibly fulfilling, and it motivates me to be the best educator I can be every day.

Throughout my career I’ve been most proud of passing my Diploma in early childhood education and care. Helping children adopting appropriate behaviours. Maximising their learning and growth. Coming up with new activities that they enjoy.

When I’m not at Choklits I enjoy walking in beautiful parks and walking my dog.

The cutest, funniest or most beautiful thing a child has ever said to me was “You are the best!“

Tina is an Educator in the Choklits Pre-Toddler Room, holds a Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care, moved from China to Australia in 2008 with her family and now has over 5 years experience in early education.

Over to Tina…

I love working in early education and care because I believe learning is happening all the time, particularly through play. I have a strong passion to connect, interact and build positive relationships with children. I enjoy guiding children to grow and learn through to play. I sharing opportunities for children to explore, discover, imagine and create in their environment.

Throughout my career I’ve been most proud of my interactions with the children which include the simplest things like the children waving their hands at the end of the day and saying “bye bye, Tina”. When they run to me with excitement and hugs I can see them light up and I’m reminded of how much the children care for their educators just as we care for them.

When I’m not at Choklits I enjoy going for walks, being at the beach watching the sunrise and sunset. I also love to listen classical music and watch soap opera.

The cutest thing a child has ever said to me was actually my daughter who mimicked my words when she was 2 years old. When I was comforting and patting a dog, I said “sweetie, it’s alright, calm down”. My daughter walked up to our dog and used her cute voice “sweetie, it’s alright, calm down” and gave the dog a gentle pat on the head. I thought that was very cute because she didn’t know the meaning of calm down.

Tylisha is working towards her Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care and began working at Choklits recently after completing her placement with us.

Over to Tylisha…

I love working in early education and care because I get to make a positive impact on children during their most important years of growth. I enjoy creating a safe and fun space where they can learn, explore, and grow.

A proud moment I had recently was when I worked with a child who was learning the alphabet. We went through which letter makes which sound to help them understand the difference between the letters. It was amazing to see the progress!

When I’m not at Choklits, I enjoy enjoy hanging out with friends and family, being outside and doing anything creative whether it’s painting, cooking, playing games, or cross stitching.

The cutest and most beautiful thing a child has ever said to me was when a toddler said to me, “You’re a fun grown-up because you’re not boring.” It made me laugh so much and filled me with joy—it’s such a pure and unexpected compliment!

Leila is the Room Leader of Nursery at Choklits Ringwood, holds a Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care and a Bachelor of Electronic Engineering and has over 17 years experience in education.

Over to Leila…

My teaching career started overseas where I worked as a high school teacher for 4 years. I then taught math and physics to year 10 students. Afterwards I decided to gain some experience working with young children, so I started to work as an educator in a kindergarten which lasted for 4 years. After I moved to Australia, I decided to continue working in the same field so I studied my Diploma of Early Education and Care to gain further knowledge about children aged 0 to 5 and how they develop, learn and think. I gained some local experience completing placements in 3 different child care centres including Choklits before officially starting at Choklits in October, 2020.

I love working in early education and care because I love learning about children through their eyes. Before verbal communication skills develop you can see children’s personalities, their needs and wants all through their expressions. I have always enjoyed working with kids from a young age and love watching them grow and learn in their infant years of life.

Throughout my career I’ve been most proud of being an early childhood educator where I can be part of young children’s life journey and provide a safe and comfortable learning environment for them. I just love children!

When I am not at Choklits I like to spend time with my family and playing with my beautiful daughter (who used to attend Choklits). Also, I am passionate about interior design and decoration which I took a course few years ago to learn about that. I also love to travel around Australia and overseas.

The most beautiful moment with children for me is when young children open their hands and ask me for a hug and being to start calling me by name.

Farina holds a Master of Teaching in Early Childhood Education. Prior to this, she completed a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Management, with a specialisation in Human Resources.

Over to Farina…

I love working in early education and care because it allows me to nurture young minds while embracing the child inside my own heart. Making learning joyful and engaging for children isn’t just rewarding—it brings me genuine happiness. Being part of their journey and building strong partnerships with families and colleagues to create a supportive community fills me with purpose and reminds me every day why I love what I do.

I’m incredibly proud of my love for art and craft. Whether it’s creating something at home or with the children at childcare, seeing their fascination and excitement brings me pure joy. The best part? When they ask me how to do it, and with a little guidance, they create their own masterpieces. That moment when their eyes light up with pride fills my heart like nothing else.

When I’m not at Choklits, I love listening to music (my ultimate mood booster), working out, drawing, swimming, or cooking—these are my happy essentials! I’m also a total foodie, always hunting for new restaurants with flavours from every culture. These activities keep me energised and smiling all day long.

The cutest and most beautiful things the children do for me from time to time is make these adorable little cards bursting with colourful rainbows, smiley faces, and hearts. Every time they hand me one, my heart absolutely melts, and I can’t help but feel a rush of joy and pride.

Katy has been working in Early Childhood Education and Care for over 5 years and holds a Certificate 3 in Early Childhood Education.

Over to Katy…

I love working in Early Childhood Education and Care because I love being around children, watching them play and learn. It’s a privilege to be a part of their world and be involved with all their learning experiences. It’s especially nice to build relationships with families and other staff members. It’s fun to watch them grow and learn and develop their personalities and skills.

During my time as an Educator I have been proud that I can settle children who are normally very challenging to settle. I have been told I am very calming when they are feeling overwhelmed.

When I’m not at Choklits I enjoy going shopping, watching movies, walking my dog, craft activities, going for drives, visiting beaches & spending time with my Nana.

One of the funniest things a child has said to me was once when a little boy asked if he could come home with me so he could make me some spaghetti! He was so cute and we were cooking in the sandpit. We found some pots and made ‘pasta’ together.

Sukh has been at Choklits Ringwood for almost 2 years and holds a Certificate 3 in Early Childhood Education and Care.

Over to Sukh…

I love working in early education because it allows me to make a meaningful impact during the crucial formative years of a child’s development. I believe in fostering a nurturing environment where children can explore, learn, and grow at their own pace, laying a strong foundation for their future success. I am passionate about instilling a love for learning and helping children develop essential skills like empathy, curiosity, and resilience. I find joy in witnessing the wonder and excitement that children experience as they discover the world around them, and I commit to providing them with the support and guidance they need to thrive.

Throughout my career I’ve been most proud of providing a safe and nurturing environment where children can thrive physically, emotionally, and cognitively and supporting children’s growth and development across various domains, including social, emotional, cognitive, and physical development.

When I’m not at Choklits I enjoy quality time with my husband and 3 kids. We love exploring various activities together, including visiting the “gurudwara” for spiritual connection, as well as exploring local markets, waterfalls and gardens.

One of the most amusing jokes shared by a child with me was: “What flies and wobbles in the sky? A jelly-copter”.