" Teaching kids to count is fine, but teaching them what counts is best."
Bob Talbert
Education 2023- now - University of Guelph-Humber
202-2023 - Robert F Hall ( High school)
About me
My name is Emily Esposito and I am a 19-year-old student at Guelph-Humber University, studying early childhood education. I've always had a deep love for childcare and a passion for teaching young children, which has shaped my career aspirations of becoming an educator who nurtures the development of future generations. I'm especially interested in creating an inclusive learning environment that fosters creativity, curiosity and love for learning. Outside of my studies, I enjoy designing engaging lesson plans, exploring Montessori approaches and incorporating hands-on activities that promote language and literacy skills. When I'm not in the class or creating lesson plans, I love spending time with my family and experimenting with fun crafts and baking projects. My dream is to inspire young learners while making a lasting impact on their lives.
Experiences:
My past experiences have profoundly shaped my philosophy. During my work and practicum placements, I have witnessed the transformative impact of responsive caregiving and play-based learning. For example, I remember observing a child gain confidence and build meaningful connections with peers.
Additionally, my involvement in creating and leading activities has taught me the importance of planning with intention while remaining flexible to children's evolving interests. These moments have deepened my understanding of how educators can adapt to meet diverse needs and inspired me to prioritize inclusive and child-centred approaches in my practice
SMARTGoals
Goal 1: To enhance communication with 5 parents by the end of 5 week
Objective: To strengthen relationships with parents by introducing myself during drop off on the first day and allowing them to feel comfortable handing off their children to me in the morning drop off.
Objective: to talk with parents daily during pick-up about how their child's day went and activities completed during the day.
Goal 2: To develop strong observational skills when it comes to students partaking in activities I plan
Objective: To look at children when completing activities I planned and understand the feelings they may be having by asking them open-ended questions during and after the activity
Objective: To observe children during the planned activity, recognize their emotions and understand their feelings by asking open-ended questions during and after the activity
Goal 3: To have a good relationship with those I work with including staff and students
Objective: To communicate with the staff in the room asking them what I can plan that the children will enjoy, and also requesting the staff any questions I may have.
Objective: To talk with students, engage with them and overall make them feel comfortable wiith me being in the room, allowing the children to get to know me by doing an introduction of myself on the first day and days after if needed.
SMART Goal Completion
During my placement, I completed all my SMART goals, which focused on enhancing communication with parents, developing strong observational skills, and building positive relationships with staff and students.
I successfully improved communication with five parents by introducing myself during morning drop-off and engaging in meaningful conversations. This helped establish trust, making parents feel more comfortable leaving their children in my care. Additionally, I consistently spoke with parents during pick-up, sharing details about their child's day and completed activities, further strengthening our connection.
To develop my observational skills, I closely watched children participate in planned activities, paying attention to their emotions and reactions. By asking open-ended questions during and after the activities, I gained insight into their thoughts and feelings, which helped me adjust activities to better engage and support them.
In fostering positive relationships with staff and students, I actively communicated with my colleagues as needed. I introduced myself to the children on the first day and continued to engage with them through play and conversation, creating a welcoming environment. By maintaining daily interactions, I built strong relationships with both staff and students, ensuring a positive and collaborative atmosphere.
Overall, my placement provided me with valuable learning experiences that allowed me to strengthen my communication, observation and relationship-building skills. Achieving these SMART goals has helped me grow as an educator, and I will continue to apple these skills in my future work with children, families and colleagues.
Individual Approach
Focusing on recognizing each child's unique learning style, interests and developmental pace. offering hands-on, sensory-rich experiences for tactile learners, using visual aids for those who learn best through seeing and encouraging verbal discussion for those who thrive with language.
Personal Education
I am currently pursuing my degree in early childhood Education. I am deeply passionate about fostering positive, inclusive learning environments where young children can thrive. My goal is to become a dedicated and compassionate educator, helping children grow socially, emotionally and cognitively.
Passion
I am incredibly passionate about teaching and creating environments where children not only learn but also develop a love for learning. i believe that fostering curiosity and excitement early on is key to helping children grow and thrive. By making learning fun, engaging and meaningful I aim to inspire a lifelong love of discovery in every child .