"I treat children as my own as I know how I felt when I left my children in care, i.e. guilty, heartbroken and stressed about the care they were getting.” explains Melissa from Kids Club Oakdowns about her motivation to become an early childhood educator.
Melissa is one of our well-deserved Thank You Educators winners and being a mother to six children has contributed to her becoming an experienced educator who knows first-hand the value of supporting, loving and caring for children and their families.
We spoke with Melissa about her love of being an educator and passion for really being there for the children in her care. Below is our full interview with Melissa. Read on for more inspiration and understanding of the value childcare educators have in our community:
1. Can you tell us about your background and experience in childcare? How did you get started in this profession?
I have always loved children since I was a little girl. I have six beautiful children. I was part of a playgroup committee. I started family daycare when my youngest was one after being approached to do childcare. Over my time I have worked in a few centres.
2. What motivated you to become a childcare educator? Are there any specific childhood experiences or influences that led you to choose this career path?
I love being able to care, love and support children and their families. I treat children as my own as I know how I felt when I left my children in care, e.g. guilty, heartbroken and stressed about the care they were getting.
3. What age groups of children have you worked with, and what have you enjoyed about working with these specific age groups?
I enjoy all age groups as every age is full of fun watching them learn and seeing the excitement on their little faces when they learn something new.
4. What do you believe are the most important qualities or skills that a childcare educator should possess? How do you continue to learn and develop those skills in your own journey as an educator?
Be passionate about your job. Respect families and children. Make sure the children are loved, safe and feel secure in our care. Treat children as our own while in our care.
5. Can you share some of your favourite activities or projects that have had a significant impact on the children’s learning and development?
I love being able to share my animals with the children and doing nature experiences, e.g. gardening, animal nursery. Also celebrating birthdays and special events with the children.
6. What is the most rewarding aspect of being a childcare educator for you?
The love I get from the children; seeing their beautiful smiles when they see me and the connection I have with the families and other educators.
7. Are there any memorable success stories or moments in your career that you would like to share?
Being told by children they love me and getting precious cuddles from them. When a parent has told me how they treasure the care I have given their child and made such an easy transition for them. Winning Educator of the Year, I feel very honoured and blessed but certainly couldn’t do it without my beautiful team members.
8. Finally, what message or words of encouragement do you have for aspiring childcare educators who are considering entering this profession?
It is not an easy job but if you are a loving, caring, patient and passionate person who loves being loved, being dribbled on and being part of a team; it’s a perfect job!
