'Happy little faces' make job worth it

Kirsten White enjoys the one-on-one time she gets to spend with the children at the Village. Photo / George Novak

Kirsten White's favourite part of her job is seeing the determination on the faces of the young people she teaches when they're learning something new.

Miss White is a teacher at the Village Childcare in Bethlehem and says she enjoys spending one-on-one time with the children.

"You get to see the child's personality coming out, their frustration then their determination come out, then their happy little faces when they get it."

Miss White has been at the centre since August last year. She has a degree in sport and exercise with a major in teaching and last year completed her post graduate study in childhood education.

Miss White began her study with the idea of going into secondary schooling, but was attracted to the younger age group after spending some time with her friend's child and seeing the girl's growth and progress.

It's a decision Miss White has not regretted.

"The job is different every day. The children are hilarious and amazing."

Her previous experience with sport and activity comes in handy. The children enjoy being able to play and dance with Miss White and she enjoys it in turn.

"It's really fun for me and the kids really enjoy it. They get messy, they get active and they get into everything which is all part of their learning."

Top five teaching tips

1. You can't be afraid to get dirty in this age group.

2. Get down to their level.

3. You have to be flexible, you can't plan an activity and expect it to go exactly to plan.

4. Keep yourself fresh and up to date with new theories and fun things to do with the kids.

5. Take those moments to give yourself and your team the warm fuzzies andshare the learning throughout the team.

• Do you know an awesome teacher in the Bay? If so, we'd like to hear from you. This series celebrates the great teachers in our early childhood centres, schools and tertiary institutes. Let us know of your nominations by emailing news@bayofplentytimes.co.nz.