By Casey Neill
“I believe every child has a voice, and that voice deserves to be heard.”
This belief drew Niño Early Learning Adventures Lalor principal educator Emma Sherring to her role.
“I wanted to help give children the best opportunities early in life and give them the chance to flourish and be the best version of themselves,” she said.
“I really enjoy when children have been working towards a skill or a goal and they accomplish it.
“It’s a constant and tangible reminder that the work we do everyday with the children matters and makes a difference.”
Family-owned and developed, Niño ELA has aesthetically gentle, homelike architectural spaces; child-led learning curriculums; nature playgrounds; and nutritionist-developed seasonal menus.
Working with families, educators create individual learning programs that consider interests; physical, personal, social and emotional wellbeing; and cognitive aspects of learning.
Niño ELA takes great pride in celebrating the wonder of early childhood education and strives to offer an inspiring environment for professional educators who care for children.
Ms Sherring found it hard to choose just one moment from her role that most warmed her heart.
“I did have a child in my room earlier this year who took sometime to get used to his surroundings,” she said.
“I continued interacting with him every day he attended, made time for one-on-one activities and tried my best to understand his needs.
“The other day he came running up to me and gave me a giant hug.
“My persistence had really worked with this young child and he felt cared for and safe with me and his surroundings.”
For Ms Sherring, Niño ELA is also like a second family.
“I am greeted every morning with open arms from my co-workers and the families that attend the centre,” she said.
“Niño ELA has also always presented me with opportunities to better develop my skills, work collaboratively with like-minded people and options for career growth.”
Niño ELA mentor and leadership manager Debra Smith said an ideal educator was nurturing, caring and passionate about what they did each day.
“They have a positive outlook and want the best for all the children and families in their care,” she said.
“A wonderful educator can leave lasting memories on a child.”
Mrs Smith said educators could grow and extend their career, make a difference to young children, make friendships and be supported by co-workers.
A unique and nurturing early learning environment, discover a place dedicated to the wonder of early childhood education.
Niño Early Learning Adventures has centres across Melbourne. Visit ninoela.com.au for more information.
