🌟 Meet Nicole – Kindergarten Teacher, Director and Educational Leader – Interviewed by parent, Delphie Dib-Milston.
“In the early years, children learn about themselves, the world around them and others through their connection with the environment – at Kenmore West Kindy, we have such a beautiful setting for children to grow and thrive.”
🌱Q: How did you begin your journey in early childhood education?
My experience working with children and families began in childcare settings in 1991. While working, I completed my Diploma in Community Services in childcare and moved into a mentoring role supporting, monitoring and educating Family Day Care educators by providing play groups and workshops on age-appropriate experiences and learning in the early years.
In 2005, I completed my Bachelor of Early Childhood at The University of Melbourne and have had the role of Director/ Teacher/ Educational leader in kindergartens since 2006. Alongside this, I worked for the local government in Victoria as the educational leader for Family Day Care educators, supporting maternal and child health nurses in connecting with and educating families. This included organising and facilitating new parent groups, young mum’s groups and providing workshops on promoting play and learning in the early years.
🌱Q: What does play mean in a kindergarten setting?
In the early years, children learn through their playful experiences, interactions with the environment, their peers, and educators. They learn about themselves, others and the world around them through play and gentle guidance.
🌱Q: How do you see children in the classroom?
Children are competent and capable. They have their own ideas and ways of learning and doing. Each child comes from a unique set of experiences. Children are active participants in their own learning, and their ideas are valued and respected.
We want children to view themselves as capable learners and understand that mistakes are an integral part of the learning process. It’s ok to have a go, and if at first they are unsuccessful, it is important to keep trying.
🌱Q: What role does the teacher play in kindergarten?
Our role as early childhood educators is to provide the highest-quality program possible, guided by the Early Years Learning Frameworks and National Quality Standards, and driven by continuous improvement. This should be a collaborative approach in which all voices are heard, including those of educators, children, and families. Teachers and educators support children in developing a growth mindset. Moving from ‘I cannot’ to ‘I can if I keep trying’ or what is the plan and steps to get there.
🌱Q: What do you hope children take away from kindergarten?
When children complete kindergarten, we want them to be independent thinkers who can make choices, resolve conflicts, and develop a love of learning. We want them to head into the world with a willingness to try new tasks, the ability to persist when faced with challenges and the responsibility to look after their own belongings. We also hope they will have the confidence to ask for help when needed, communicate their ideas and concerns, manage disappointments, and show interest in and care for others.
🌱Q: What is it that makes Kenmore West such a special Kindy?
For me, a community kindergarten is a really special time in a child’s and a family’s life. Kenmore West Kindy provides such an enriching natural environment and large space for us, as educators, to deliver the quality program we have in place. Kenmore West has a rich history in the local community, and it is a privilege to connect and support children and families in the next stage of its journey.
🌱Q: Finally, if you had to pick three of your favourite books, and yes, I know it is hard, what would they be?
So many favourites! Two books that support children in discussing kindness and help develop empathy for others are “Have you filled a bucket?” and “Words and your heart.” Another favourite is “Five little men in a flying saucer”. This supports children in learning about the importance of caring for our environment.
That was hard to think of only three!
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