Elizabeth, professional childcare assistant - L2P St. catharines east

Hello Parents!

I'm a retired elementary school teacher (56 years old, and fit for my age). At this stage of life I am looking for work with children in a more intimate, relaxed setting and hope to develop fun, meaningful relationships with the children I care for. Humour and creativity were two traits I drew on as a teacher and use now as a grandma to my (step) grandchildren. Helping children with their homework is fine by me. If I can make their learning any easier, I feel good about that. My ceritication is for Kindergarten to Grade Six, but I also have Primary (Core) French and my Reading Specialist qualifications. It's my belief that without strong reading skills, a student will struggle in most areas of the curriculum.

I also have a background in the performing arts, and do some singing, drama, dancing and can play the flute a bit (though I no longer own a flute). I even appeared on "The Polka Dot Door" many moons ago, and did some cartoon voice over work for a brief time when I was an actor in Toronto. I enjoy reading to children, and put a great deal into it, not only in my voice, but in monitoring their understanding of what is being read to them.

Engaging children is crucial, and the day goes better for everyone when there is structure, and activities to focus on. I do not take kindly to rudeness, however, and will be firm with behaviours that I consider inappropriate. Naturally I would never physically harm a child, but manners matter to me. This is something that needs to be discussed with the parents. If a child has behavioural issues of any kind, I would like to know as much as possible ahead of time.

As I indicated earlier, cooking and light housework are fine, provided the children can be occupied while I do so. Playing or walking outdoors is also something I would like to invite children to do with me, as it is good to get fresh air everyday, if possible (this is daytime care I refer to).

Other than that, I am pretty easy going, and always open to feedback.