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"Children must be taught how to think, not what to think." -Margaret Mead
Professional Profile
Professional Profile
I've been working in the early childhood field since 2003. What led me into the early childhood field was, first of all, my love for children and a desire to help them. While studying at the City College of Chicago, I did not have a major because I was undecided. I started taking child development classes as electives, and I really enjoyed the courses and loved learning about how children develop. After taking the courses in early childhood, I decided to switch jobs and started a career in Early Childhood Education. This was one of the best decisions I've ever made. Once I started working in early childhood, my career excelled. I began working as a teacher's assistant at a mom-and-pop school. It was not the best experience, but I did learn a lot from that experience. After leaving that center, I worked for a Christian childcare center called Bethesda. I loved this center. I worked there for a few years before leaving due to the long commute from home. After leaving Bethesda, I worked for a Fortune 100 childcare center. I worked at this center for over 14 years.
While working at this center, my career took off. I started as an infant team lead teacher, then as an education coordinator for infants and toddlers, and finally as the Infant-Toddler Health and Safety Director. Unfortunately, early childhood professionals do not earn much. So, while working for this company, I started a home daycare serving children and families in my community for 16 years now. Sharai's Little Explorers is currently doing well. We are at level 2, working on level 3 through Paths To Quality, Indiana's early childhood quality rating system. I am presently doing this while completing my bachelor's degree in Early Childhood at Walden University. Going back to school to finish my bachelor's in Early Childhood Education has been my goal for many years. I've encouraged many educators to return to school, and now I am following my own advice. My next steps in my career will be to open an early childhood center in my community, complete a master's degree, and start a PhD program. I love working with children and families, and being part of a child's development and learning is fulfilling.
My Core Professional Beliefs
My Core Professional Beliefs
I believe that the early childhood profession is one of the essential professions serving young children and their families.
Professionals working for the welfare of people have a special obligation to behave in a way that benefits the well-being of others. (Study Guide Slide 14).
When caring for others, there are foundational professional values based on the relationship: caring, compassion, empathy, respect for others, and trustworthiness (Study Guide Slide 14).
I believe that all children should have quality childcare.
I believe this because children will have positive experiences and opportunities to grow socially, emotionally, physically, and cognitively. Friedrich Fröebel states, “Every child is born good; therefore, the child must be treated as an individual and left to develop in an unhindered fashion.” (Hintz & Lascarides, 2011, p.93).
This belief will influence my professional work by providing a child-centered environment that promotes learning, creativity, exploration, and skills that will last a lifetime.
This belief is helping to shape my professional identity through the implementation of developmentally appropriate practices based on the nine principles recommended by NAEYC (naeyc.org)
This is evidenced in my work by striving to meet each child where they are developmentally and enabling children to reach their goals (ECLKC.gov).
https://eclkc.ohs.acf.hhs.gov
Lascarides, V. C. & Hintz, B. F. (2011). History of Early Childhood Education. New York, NY: Routledge.
I believe this because an early childhood educator can significantly impact a young child's development and family, whether positive or negative, based on their experiences and environment.
A positive nurturing environment can shield a child from the impact of negative experiences (http://www.zerotothree.org)
Even though young children may not understand what they see or hear, they are affected by the events that take place around them, and they rely on adults for comfort (http://www.zerotothree.org)
I believe that all children should have authentic learning experiences.
I believe this because Friedrich Froebel based his beliefs on children needing their own space for learning (Hintz & Lascarides, 2011)
This belief will influence my professional work by providing a cultural and linguistic environment for all children to learn and explore. Children and their families will experience a diverse, rich environment that is inviting to all.
This belief is helping to shape my professional identity by looking beyond my own beliefs and values and welcoming and respecting each child, family, and staff member’s culture.
This is evidenced in my work through opportunities for children's cultural experiences to relate to learning and their contributions to the community in which they live.
Lascarides, V. C. & Hintz, B. F. (2011). History of Early Childhood Education. New York, NY: Routledge.
This belief influences my professional work in how I teach, interact, and support the children and families in my care.
By conducting myself professionally and holding myself accountable for my actions (http://www.NAEYC.org ).
By following and demonstrating the Code of Ethics (http://www.NAEYC.org ).
Reflective training, teaching, and growth throughout my professional career as an early childhood professional (http://www.NAEYC.org ).
I believe that learning experiences should be child-centered.
I believe this because Maria Montessori's educational approach emphasized self-paced learning where children are capable of learning independently (Hintz & Lascarides, 2011, p.152)
This belief will influence my professional work by implementing child-centered activities that help children explore, learn, and develop.
This belief is helping shape my professional identity by offering children hands-on experiences tailored to their interests.
This is evidenced in my work by clear assessment goals and the implementation of teaching methods tailored to individual learning styles.
Lascarides, V. C. & Hintz, B. F. (2011). History of Early Childhood Education. New York, NY: Routledge.
The goal of early childhood education should be to activate the child's own natural desire to learn.
Maria Montessori
Time spent playing with children is never waisted.
Time spent playing with children is never waisted.
Dawn Iantero
Professional Areas of Interest
Professional Areas of Interest
I am interested in joining an early childhood organization that supports childcare programs and families with young children. NAEYC is an organization I would like to participate in as a professional when I open my center. My interest stems from the belief that NAEYC will enhance the program’s quality and provide best practices and policies (NAEYC.org). I want my center to run a high-quality early childhood program, and having NAEYC accreditation will let people know it is. The Zero To Three website policy and advocacy for babies and toddlers promote good health and early learning. My early childhood program will use resources from the Zero To Three organization to support families with critical needs.
I am also interested in programming and curriculum. Theorist Maria Montessori inspired this interest. Maria Montessori studied children’s development and how they learn through hands-on interaction. I love observing children’s behavior with how and why they do what they do. I love having conversations with children and asking them questions. I believe that by observing children’s behavior, I can build on my studies to create a program and an age-appropriate curriculum. Children with special needs have always been of interest to me. I want to work with children with special needs by creating activities and lesson plans to support their education and developmental needs. Center on the Developing Child and WestEd support implementing activities and supporting families.
I am currently interested in becoming an advocate for childcare. I like to be on the frontline advocating for higher pay and healthcare for early childhood educators. To become an advocate, I will need to undergo training to learn about the laws and policies governing advocacy. These are some issues we face in early childhood, but I want to start with what's important to me. This will help increase the quality of care, along with training. With higher pay and access to healthcare, more educators may take an interest in early childhood.
I am interested in becoming a trainer for early childhood educators and their programs. I want to focus on planning daily activities and on implementing them in the classroom and outdoor environments. This will allow me to share the information I learned throughout my career. I want to do fieldwork, travel to different centers, and provide hands-on training. I can offer webinars and seminars to early childhood facilities in the community. This will support the quality of early childhood programs.
Professional Goals, for Practice and Growth
Professional Goals, for Practice and Growth
To complete my Bachelor's Degree, I plan to earn it while studying at Walden University.
To open a childcare center. This goal is important to me because I want to take everything I have learned and experienced throughout my career to create an environment for children and families. In this place, professionals can grow and advance in their early childhood careers.
To earn a Master's Degree in Early Childhood Curriculum. This goal will help me with writing a children's book of activities and short stories.
To write a children's book. Writing a children's book has always been something I've wanted to do throughout my career.
To become a CDA Specialist.
Mission Statement
My mission as an early childhood professional is to provide a safe, nurturing, and learning environment for all children to explore and develop. To act as an advocate for children, families, and educators. To continue to grow and learn in this career path. To provide the best quality care. To respect cultures, beliefs, and values. To be resourceful for early childhood programs and utilize community resources to support learning and social development. I will represent this as a professional following the NAEYC Code of Ethics and beyond. To continue to educate myself in the early childhood field. My mission is to inspire, encourage, and promote education for young children. NAEYC.org
Resourceful Websites
Resourceful Websites
NAEYC is an organization that supports high-quality early childhood programs. NAEYC's Code of Ethics holds programs and professionals accountable for how they interact with children and implement professionalism.
The Center on the Developing Child at Harvard University has resources to support young children's brain development and to highlight how science plays a crucial role. This website has articles for early childhood professionals to review.
Zero To Three is an excellent website with activities and articles supporting children ages zero to three. Professionals in early childhood can utilize this site for age-appropriate activities and ideas.
Colorin Colorado provides research-based information and advice to families, educators, and communities around the country. This website serves families of English language learners.
Education Week is one of the most trusted resources for news and information for grades K-12. Education Week has national education coverage.
If you want to learn about current and inspiring early childhood educators, this is the website for you. This website has information on teacher certification for every state.
References:
· http://centeronthedevelopingchild.org
· Study Guide adapted from the following text: Lascarides, V.C., & Hintz, B.F. (2001). History of Early Childhood Education. New York, NY: Routledge.
· Walden University. (2017a). Study guide: Professionalism in the early childhood field [PowerPoint presentation]. Minneapolis, MN: Author.
Lascarides, V. C. & Hintz, B. F. (2011). History of Early Childhood Education. New York, NY: Routledge.
"Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world."
-Nelson Mandela
"Education is not preparation for life: education is life itself."
-John Dewey
"Education is the passport to the future, for tomorrow belongs to those who prepare for it today."
-Malcolm X
"Education is one thing no one can take away from you."
-Elin Nordegren
SHARAI DREW
Hammond, Indiana 46324 sharai.drew1@waldenu.edu 219-588-6579
PROFILE
Early childhood home daycare provider with over 16 years of experience. Strong foundation of play-based learning and curriculum. Committed to supporting the individual developmental needs of each child, ensuring these needs are being met through observations, assessment, and parent involvement. Consistently in training, taking classes, and staying up to date with current events in early childhood education. Positive feedback with exceptional reviews from families about their child’s progress in the program and at school.
AREAS OF EXPERTISE
Creating and Implementing Curriculum, Environment Setup, Classroom Management, Assessment, Parent Collaboration, and Managing Daily Business Operations.
WORK EXPERIENCE
Owner/Director/Teacher
Sharai’s Little Explorers | Hammond, IN 2009 - Present
Responsible for the daily operation of the business, implementing and coordinating activities for 12 mixed-aged children.
· Ensure a safe, healthy, clean educational environment that provides opportunities for learning, discovery, and investigation.
· Manage day-to-day operations of the business, handle administrative tasks, budgeting, record-keeping, and marketing.
· Work collaboratively with parents to create developmentally appropriate plans for their child’s learning and development.
· Real-time communications with parents, daily report of primary care, activities with observations and assessments.
Infant-Toddler Health and Safety Director
Bright Horizons | Chicago, IL. 2006-2022
Daily responsibilities include meeting health, safety, and licensing standards. Implementing protocol for child and staff well-being by overseeing training and emergency preparedness.
· Led and managed health and safety aspects of the center
· Supervising staff and managing daily operations, focusing on safety and health
· Maintain compliance with state and local licensing, policies, and NAEYC accreditations
· Maintaining high standards for child development, program quality, assessments, and documentation
· Implementing training in health protocols, fire drills, and disaster preparedness
· Family, teacher, and client relationships
· Exceptional communication skills,
EDUCATION
Studying in the early childhood field has had a significant impact on my professional career. I am building essential skills crucial to learning about child development theories and learning styles. An early childhood degree meets state certification for high-quality early childhood programs. It qualifies for career advancement, higher pay, and educational leadership. An early childhood education degree will have a positive impact by empowering me with the tools needed to build a strong foundation for lifelong learning and skill development in young children.
Walden University, Minneapolis, MN. 2022-present
BS in Early Childhood Studies
Governors State University, University Park, IL. 2003- 2007
Early Childhood Education
Olive Harvey City College of Chicago. Chicago, Il. 1999-2003
Associate’s in Arts Degree in General Studies
CERTIFICATIONS
Home Daycare License 2009-present
Omega Nu Lambda National Honors Society Member 2025
NAEYC Member 2025
High Scope Member 2025
Indiana Paths to Quality Level 2 2025
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
Other Training:
· First Aid Certification
· Child CPR Certification
Professional Websites
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