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I begin with a deep passion for nurturing young children. My first educational job was as a teaching assistant for a Title IV childcare center outside of Philadelphia. The sense of satisfaction and accomplishment I felt working that summer is where my vocation was born.
After spending several years in the classroom, I returned to school to earn a Ph.D. in Psychological Studies in Education from the University of Southern California, Los Angeles (UCLA).
During this time, I was involved in relevant research projects examining teaching and learning. This rigorous academic pursuit equipped me with a robust theoretical foundation and a deep understanding of early childhood development, encompassing physical, cognitive, and social/emotional aspects.
In addition to my academic achievements, I have hands-on experience as an Early Childhood teacher, a speech therapist, and a K-6 teacher. These roles have enriched my knowledge with practical insights and a profound understanding of the unique needs of young learners.
My professional journey in the realm of education spans across diverse roles and settings. My teaching experience ranges from toddlers to adults, covering child development at Pepperdine’s Graduate School of Education and Psychology (GSEP) for 16 years.
Through this period, I had the privilege of collaborating with professional colleagues on the cutting edge of educational research. As the Chair of the Teacher Education Program at GSEP, I contributed to the strategic development of educational programs, further solidifying my commitment to excellence in education.
Teaching and observing aspiring educators in the classrooms continuously reminded me of what good education provides for young children.
The workshops I offer on early childhood education are based on this insightful learning.
At the heart of my teaching philosophy is the belief that each child is a unique and precious individual, brimming with potential. Children thrive in an environment that nurtures their curiosity, creativity, and emotional well-being. The core of my beliefs lies in the fundamental understanding that humans are natural learners seeking continuous growth. Learning is an ongoing, non-linear journey, unique to each individual, with varying paces and levels of comprehension. Every parent and teacher aspires to be the best version of themselves, consistently striving for improvement.
In early childhood education, I deeply respect the learning process, acknowledging its non-linearity. Education is a perpetual voyage of discovery and experience, honoring the distinct and varied journey of each learner. As a perpetual student, I remain humble, valuing and respecting the distinctive journey of every learner.
Early childhood education (ECE), often referred to as nursery education, is a branch of educational theory that focuses on the formal and informal teaching of children from birth up to the age of eight, traditionally up to the equivalent of third grade. This period is crucial in child development and lays the foundation for future learning.
High-quality early childcare significantly enhances children’s school readiness and reduces the so-called achievement gap by half. However, simply having access to early education is not sufficient. Warm, safe, and supportive environments that foster rich language, meaningful conversations, and ample opportunities for play and hands-on exploration are pivotal. ECE providers and parents need access to professional support and development. My workshops aim to provide the necessary information and guidance to create such enriching environments.
Let’s work together to create an educational experience that helps kids grow and stay curious. Reach out and contact me today!
“We are a little piece of continual change, looking at an infinite quantity of continual change.”
— BKS Iyengar
