How many years have you worked with children?

21 years. 

What brought you to work with children? Have you always wanted to or did it just happen?

I have always loved being around children and babysat when I was younger but didn't originally want to work with them. I wanted to be a pharmacist but that did not work out so Early Childhood Education was it.

What are some of your hobbies? 

I love to do crafting. I make wreaths and door hangers. I also have a cricut so enjoy making shirts as well.

What is your most treasured accomplishment?

I would say graduating college. 

What is your favorite thing about working with children? 

Watching them grow and seeing that "light bulb" come on when they figure something out or learn something new. 

What has been the most significant or memorable moment in your job? 

I would say seeing some of the children I have had grown now and in college or graduated from college. I was a nanny for several years while I taught Pre-K. I had a 6 week old and a 3  year old. The 3 year old played football for SMU and has graduated with his Masters. 

Do you have any dreams or aspirations you want to share? 

I would love to be able give back and volunteer more. In a perfect world, I would only work part-time or volunteer and still be able to live comfortably. 

A new season is a great time to reflect on wellness, for ourselves, our families, and the children we care for every day. Wellness doesn’t require big changes. Often, it starts with small, realistic goals, like sharing more family meals, creating calmer routines, or taking a short walk together after dinner. These small steps add up, and they’re easier to sustain when we don’t do them alone.

Children thrive when the adults in their lives feel supported, connected, and heard. Families and early childhood educators share the same goal: helping children grow, learn, and feel safe. When we come together, we learn from one another, build trust, and strengthen those connections.

This is where community-centered spaces make a difference. Talking with others, sharing challenges, and celebrating wins, big or small, can renew energy and confidence for both families and educators.

Our Family Cafés are designed to bring families, caregivers, and early childhood staff together in a welcoming, supportive environment.

These cafés create space for:

• Meaningful conversations

• Shared goal-setting

• Building relationships across home and school

• Strengthening partnerships that support children’s well-being

By focusing on connection and collaboration, Cafés help everyone feel more invested and more supported in the journey of caring for young children.

Interested in hosting or learning more about Cafés and other family-centered opportunities? Reach out to info@curriculaconcepts.com - we’d love to connect!

IMPORTANT REMINDERS!

Childcare Provider Call Highlights! We know how busy you are and want to make it a litlte easier on you! Every month we email out a summary of highlights of the OEC's Childcare Provider Call. Make sure this is getting to you! If not, reach out to Deborah to stay connected!

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“Approach the New Year with resolve to find the opportunities hidden in each new day.”

— Michael Josephson