Noelle Bascug - YMCA Childcare High Park

What was your initial reaction to working with children in this placement?

In my role at this placement, I assisted my Field Educator with daily tasks such as getting the children ready for outdoor play, lunch, and morning and afternoon snack. I facilitated learning plans that I created, focusing on play-based learning that fostered their learning and development by incorporating the children’s interests. When I found out that I would be working with the Toddlers during my first placement, I was immediately excited for my first hands-on experience with this age group. Initially, there was a sense of anxiousness as I had never worked with this age group before. I was unsure of how well I would succeed in meeting their developmental needs and communicating with them effectively. Despite the initial nerves, I was motivated to learn and work through any doubts I had.

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

I was eager and motivated to do my best in my first placement however, naturally, I was quite anxious and had some doubts about my own abilities. Thankfully, as soon as I stepped into the room and met my Field Educator, her warm and welcoming presence instantly put me at ease and gave me instant confidence. Now, a year later, I still am in close contact with my Field Educator, who started as my mentor, quickly became a close friend as well. When it came to overcoming the hurdles of self doubt and anxiety, my Field Educator was a great support system that I could rely on. I was able to ask questions, clarification and openly give ideas—all things that helped boost my confidence regarding my capabilities. I learned that leading with empathy and child-centered learning were approaches I resonated with and wanted to incorporate more into my practice in the future.

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

This field experience for me was the validation I needed that I made the right decision when choosing this program to further my career. With the support I received from my Field Educator and Professor, I had full confidence working in the field and the confidence has since stayed after continuing working in the field since. This placement truly helped me solidify my plans to have a career in education and the early childhood sector. Lastly, this placement has also given me the opportunity to continue working with the YMCA as an Early Childhood Assistant Supply.