Grace has been working in the early childhood sector for over 3 years and holds a Certificate 3 in Early Childhood Education and Care.
Over to Grace…
I love working in early education and care centres because I love children, especially after I had my own children. 5 years ago I had a very hard time in helping my own child settle in a child care centre. We had tried three of the best centres in the town but my little boy still cried all day until we met an educator called Amanda. She was very caring, patient and professional. She finally helped my child settle in that centre. I just thought I want to be an educator like Amanda. It’s amazing to be able to help a child feel safe and comfortable and to start helping them play and learn. Nothing can beat the wonderful job I have!
Throughout my career, I’ve been most proud of the many moments of progress I see in children developing under my care. For example, very young children can get frustrated and have a tendency to snatch things they want. As educators, it’s our job to help them learn strategies for both dealing with their own frustration and for how to communicate with others effectively. Taking a child from their frustration all the way through to being able to help other children with their frustration is very satisfying. When children can teach to others the lessons you’ve thought them, you know you’re making a difference in the world.
When I’m not at Choklits I enjoy working in my garden, playing with my children, cooking and taking my dog for a walk.
The most beautiful thing children do, for me, is trust me to keep their treasures (which can be the simplest things sometimes, like sticks, stones or a piece of tan bark) safe for them.