Meet the teach!
Hello! I’m Grace.
Having worked with preschoolers for more than eight years, I know that every child is different, and still they all need the same things - love, trust, and the chance to try new things! I work hard to protect the wonder of childhood. I sing. I dance. And I try to make every day a little magical for the kids I care for.
I enjoy learning about other cultures and letting children experience a little bit of the way people live around the world. It opens our minds to different ways of understanding our world. Some of our favorite explorations in the classroom have been Brazilian carnival and the interesting cooking methods in Ghana, Africa.
I have a BA in Communication and Business, and in college, I intended to be a wedding planner. While I was chasing those dreams, I continued to care for children, and soon realized that is what I love most!
Besides teaching, I love spending time with my nieces and nephew, listening to jazz music, and kickboxing.
My teaching philosophy
As an early childhood educator, I am continually seeking training to understand children better and create a more enriching experience. My philosophy is a blend of many styles and is, I think, pretty simple. Kids mimic what they see. And what kids believe about themselves is what they are told by the important grown-ups in their lives. So it’s my responsibility to speak the truth and walk in kindness, always encouraging a child where (s)he is at. We focus on our emotions, being a friend, and learning new things. I give the kids a chance to hear music from around the world, try a variety of foods, dance, and learn new games.
And then, of course, PLAY! The majority of our time is spent playing, because that is the best form of learning. Our classroom and outdoor space is set up with objects that can be used for many different purposes, fostering creativity and problem-solving. You may have heard of this concept as “loose parts.”
I believe the strongest force in the classroom is listening, and that goes both ways. Kids’ joy, positivity, and their ability to forgive is all so inspiring. So while I educate them, your kids help me be a better teacher!
My views on health
Children have so much potential! It’s our job, as adults, to give them the tools to use it. That starts with teaching healthy habits.
All food provided by WRL is suited to little, growing bodies. Balanced snacks are offered with organic fruits and vegetables and whole grains. We talk about why it is important and fun to eat properly and move our bodies. Kids are encouraged, never forced, to try new foods, new activities, and new exercises.
I use non-toxic cleaning products to protect small bodies and our environment. We reduce, recycle, and reuse where we can. And we talk about the importance of treating our bodies and the earth with respect.