Over to Pari…

I absolutely love working in early education because it’s a place where magic happens every day. Seeing children light up with curiosity, sharing their giggles, or simply giving a hug when they feel safe, that’s what fills my heart with joy. I believe every child deserves to feel loved, valued, and confident to be themselves. Building trusting relationships with children, their families, and my team is at the core of what I do.

Throughout my career, I am most proud of creating a space where children feel free to express themselves and where we support each other as a team. Whether guiding a shy child to smile or helping a curious mind learn through play, I am committed to nurturing each child’s unique journey and making each day meaningful and positive.

When I’m not at Choklits I enjoy spending time with my two wonderful kids, my daughter and son, who are my biggest inspiration. I enjoy socializing with friends, traveling to new places (my dream is to visit every corner of the world!), and indulging in good music and delicious coffee. I also dedicate some time volunteering with community organizations because giving back to others keeps my heart full.

And as for the funny side… I’ve learned that kids have a way of keeping you on your toes, like the time one of my little ones tried to convince me that the moon was made of cheese, or when my child told me I was ‘the best hugger in the whole galaxy’, which totally made my day! Those adorable, hilarious, and sometimes messy moments are what make my job so special and honestly, they keep me laughing even on tough days.

Zovi has worked in early learning for almost five years and is an Educator at Choklits in Ringwood. She holds a Diploma in Early Childhood Education and Care.

Over to Zovi…

I love working in early education and care because I am passionate about engaging with children and being a part of their developmental journey. I love guiding them to explore and discover the world, fostering their skills, and creating cherished memories along the way. My favourite part of working with children is watching as their personalities develop as they grow!

Throughout my career I’ve been most proud of Throughout my career I’ve been most proud of developing strong relationships with children and knowing they feel safe and happy with me.

When I’m not at Choklits, I enjoy cooking for friends and family, engaging in mindfulness like yoga and spending time with my grandchildren!

The cutest, funniest or most beautiful thing a child has ever said to me was when a child arrives each morning and runs towards me giving me a cuddle and telling they love me, it makes me feel warm inside and overjoyed!

Manju has completed one month of placement experience in early learning and is an Educator at Choklits in Ringwood. She holds a Bachelor in Agriculture and Technology and a Graduate Diploma in Early Childhood Education.

Over to Manju…

I love working in early education and care because I love children and really like to play with the children.

Throughout my career, I’ve been most proud of completing my Bachelor’s degree at Melbourne Polytechnic University, which was absolutely my dream.

When I’m not at Choklits, I enjoy playing outdoor activities such as badminton and love going camping.

The cutest, funniest or most beautiful thing a child has ever said to me was “your hair is so beautiful“.

Emily has worked in early learning for 7 years and is an Educator at Choklits in Ringwood. She holds a Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care, a Diploma of Musical Theatre and Dance, and Certificates III and IV in Fitness.

Over to Emily…

I love working in early education and care because with a diverse background in early childhood education, performing arts, and fitness, I bring a unique and holistic approach to working with children. I truly believe the early years lay the foundation for a child’s lifelong learning, wellbeing, and confidence. My personal philosophy is centered around the idea that every child is capable, curious, and full of potential – and it’s our role as educators to nurture that through meaningful relationships, play-based learning, and intentional teaching.

Watching a child grow in confidence, solve a problem on their own, or express themselves creatively is what makes this work so fulfilling – and I feel incredibly lucky to be part of those everyday moments that matter.

Throughout my career, I’ve been most proud of the growth I’ve experienced across so many areas of early childhood and education. Stepping into a variety of leadership roles has challenged me in the best way and strengthened my confidence as both an educator and a team member. I’m especially proud to have launched and now run the Activate sports program across the three Choklits services – bringing fitness, fun, and movement into children’s daily routines in a way that supports their physical and emotional development. I also take great pride in the strong relationships I’ve built with families, children, and colleagues, and in seeing the positive impact of creative and consistent care over time.

When I’m not at Choklits, I enjoy teaching singing and dance, helping children build confidence, creativity, and self-expression. I also stay active through football, dance, and outdoor adventures. I play football for South Croydon Football Club which Choklits Childcare is a proud sponsor. Whether on the field, on stage, or in the classroom, I love being part of communities that inspire growth and connection.

The cutest and most heartwarming moments happen during the Activate program, when children constantly ask me, “When will you be back?” or “Why do you have to go?” It’s incredibly touching to see how much they enjoy the activities and value our time together. Those questions remind me that the connections we build through movement, play, and fun have a real impact – and they inspire me to keep creating positive experiences for every child.

Yashika has worked in early learning for less than a year and is an Educator at Choklits in Ringwood. She is currently working towards her Graduate Diploma in Early Childhood Education.

Over to Yashika…

I love working in early education and care because it gives me a chance to provide the kind of education and care that I received as I was growing up. I believe that having a safe and secure environment to grow up in is the right of every child.

Throughout my career, I’ve been most proud of the moment when a child felt secure and trusted me when they were not feeling well and couldn’t describe how they were feeling. Helping them figure out these emotions and feelings is always a very fulfilling feeling.

When I’m not at Choklits, I enjoy listening to music, binge-watching Christmas movies at any time of the year, and dancing.

The cutest, funniest, or most beautiful thing a child has ever said to me was that I look like Elsa. This was funny because I have an Indian background and look VERY different to Elsa, but it reminded me that children’s minds work in mysterious and beautiful ways.

Zahra has worked in early learning for 7 years overseas and is an Educator at Choklits in Ringwood. She holds a Bachelor of English Translation, a Master of English Teaching, and is currently studying for a Master of Early Childhood Teaching.

Over to Zahra…

I love working in early education and care because I am truly passionate about combining my previous experience with the new skills I’m learning in my current course to provide high-quality education and care for children. I believe in the importance of early years for a child’s whole life ahead and am committed to including play-based methods in my everyday practice as part of my teaching philosophy.

Throughout my career, I’ve been most proud of making close connections with children, helping them become more interested in their learning journey, and assisting them in getting the most out of their experiences.

When I’m not at Choklits, I enjoy going to the countryside, having barbecues, and walking around neighbourhoods or shopping areas.

The cutest, funniest, or most beautiful thing a child has ever said to me was, “Why do you wear lip gloss while my mom does not?”

Janine is a Service Co-Director and Educational Leader at Choklits Child Care in Ringwood. She holds a Diploma in Early Childhood Education and is working towards her Bachelor of Early Childhood Teaching. Janine has worked in Early Learning for over 9 years!

Over to Janine…

I love working in early education and care because I am able to witness the amazing development of the children in my care. The early years are such an important time in a child’s life and these years certainly form the foundation for the future. I feel blessed that I can experience the wonder and joy as children experience so many firsts. My own philosophy aligns so well with the Choklits Philosophy with the phrases “learning is everywhere”, “learning from everyone” and “spark the fire” really resonating with me. Working in this industry enables me to facilitate and ignite a love of learning through the provision of a range of learning experiences and activities which I love researching, creating and then, watching as the children are excited and become absorbed in hands on learning. I am very passionate about providing warm and welcoming environments in which the children feel safe, secure, and loved to enable them to develop their sense of identity, community, and wellbeing and become confident and involved learners. This is equally important for families who entrust us with their precious children.

My career in early education and care started when I was volunteering at my own children’s kindergarten. I discovered an affinity with young children which led me to pursue a career change. I began my journey working in a small centre while I completed my Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care and my first role involved working with children with additional needs. It was immediately obvious to me that building genuine, nurturing relationships is very important to support young children in their learning journey and I am very proud of the many wonderful relationships that I have developed with the children in my care and also their families. Since then, I have worked as a Nursery Room Leader, a Pre-Toddler Room Leader, a Pre-Toddler / Toddler Room Leader, an Educational Leader and now a Service Co-Director. During this time, my desire to expand my knowledge of the early years led me to return to study and I am currently working towards my Bachelor of Early Childhood Teaching.

When I’m not at Choklits I love spending time with my family, my fiancé, our 3 children, and our dog. Some of our favourite things include camping, long walks along the beach and exploring our beautiful country. My mum is one of the most important people in my life and we spend a lot of time together at her beach house. I also love music and playing the piano, I have passed my Grade 4 AMEB exam and when time permits, I will prepare for Grade 5. In a past life, I was a Fitness Instructor so I do like to keep active and exercise when and where I can.

Over the years, I have experienced so many wonderful moments, it’s actually quite difficult to choose just one but it does make my heart melt when the children in my care say “I love you, Janine” and one of the things that I love the most is when children reach out and wrap their hand around mine, just wanting to be with me. Some favourite things that have been said – “Janine, you are so creative, you’re the best and I love you” followed by a great big bear hug! and “I want you!”

We recorded this video a while back when Janine was the Toddler Room Leader at Choklits.

Tina holds a Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care and Associate Degree of Pre-School Studies. She has been working in the early learning sector for over 15 years!

Over to Tina…

Childcare is extremely gratifying; every day is not alike, and you get to be a part of a community that helps children learn, grow, and develop to their greatest potential. Working as a Childhood Educator, you can give children a good start in life by assisting them in developing social skills in a safe and caring atmosphere that fosters learning through play. Working with children has numerous advantages. It’s an opportunity to watch children grow and develop into confident, self-sufficient learners. For many childcare teachers in the field, it’s the realisation of a long-held ambition. These are the individuals who make the best educators because they have a strong desire to excel in the field.

I have always had a passion for working with children and believe that early childhood is a crucial stage in their development. The opportunity to be a part of their growth and provide a safe and nurturing environment is incredibly rewarding. By nature, children are active, imaginative, and creative. The activities, lessons, and experiences of working with children also help you to increase your own imagination and creativity. Days filled with play, action, creativity, and fun, offers a feel-good career

When I’m not at Choklits, I enjoy spending quality time with my family and my little son. I also enjoy exercise and study.

The most beautiful thing that a child says to me was when one of the girls called my name with that childish tone, and when she said to come to me it give me a beautiful feeling.