Carman Cao, St. Nicholas Child Care Centre

What was your initial reaction to working with children with complex developmental challenges?

My initial reaction to working with children with complex developmental challenges was a mix of feeling overwhelmed and fearing that I might not be able to provide the specific needs of each child. At the same time, I also felt excited about the opportunity to work with different children and to have the chance to support them in any way I could.

How did you overcome these hurdles — and what did you learn about yourself and your practice? 

During classes, my FA would share tips and support where I'd bring them to my placement site to see what ways I can apply the tips shared to improve my experience. I also reached out to my FE asking for areas that I can improve on. I figured out that I wasn't too shy to do things, I just haven't taken the chance to try.

How did this field experience influence your plans for working in the early childhood sector?

This field experience has significantly influenced my plans for working in the early childhood sector. Having the opportunity to gain hands-on experience working with children has expanded my knowledge of child development and reinforced the importance of creating a space that is caring, encouraging, and beneficial for young children. I’ve learned how to collaborate with other educators and engage with children in a manner that promotes their growth and well-being, which will allow me to apply and build on these skills in future experiences. This experience has also strengthened my commitment as an educator to creating a more inclusive and supportive environment for all children.