The ECE Resource Centre located at Childreach is now part of Strive’s umbrella of services. With that, the Strive Team is also expanding! We are therefore thrilled to introduce you to Samantha Wassing, our ECE Resource Centre Specialist.
Sam has been a cherished member of the Childreach family for the past 3 years, stepping into her current role in the Resource Centre in August 2021. We could not be more delighted to have Sam’s enthusiasm, ingenuity, and expertise as we usher in this next exciting chapter and a new vision for professional resourcing.
We asked Sam some questions to get to know her a little better. Keep reading to see what she said!
Tell us a bit about yourself.
Hi! My name is Samantha or Sam. I’m a graduate of the Early Childhood Education Program and have worked at Childreach for the last three years. I’m excited to have the opportunity to join the Strive team! I was born and raised in Kitchener but have been living in London for the past five years. Since moving here, I’ve enjoyed exploring the multitude of forested spaces and hikes in the city and surrounding areas. I love to spend time with my family and friends, but also deeply enjoy getting lost in a book.
IMAGE DESCRIPTION: SAMANTHA, A YOUNG, WHITE WOMAN WITH LONG, BROWN HAIR FACES THE CAMERA SMILING.
What is something you’ve learned recently that you’re excited about?
I have been taking online courses through OntarioLearn‘s Children’s Mental Health program. I’m passionate about psychology and learning about how the human mind functions. This program focuses on behaviour/symptoms, risk factors, intervention/prevention strategies, and how family relationships imapact mental health. While this can be an asset in my professional future, I’m currently enjoying delving into the case studies the most, problem solving, and coming up with solutions and strategies.
What is something you’re unlearning?
I’m trying to unlearn saying yes to everything. Knowing my limits between being dependable and still taking time to focus on myself sometimes. Setting healthy boundaries in my everyday life and working on the areas that need the most care.
What is the best part of your role as Resource Centre Specialist?
My favourite part about my role as Resource Centre Specialist is getting to know the families and early years professionals that come to the centre. Sharing experiences and having the opportunity to collaborate with them to find strategies and resources to best enhance their child’s play and learning experiences. Every child is unique, their interests are everchanging, and, over time, you feel like you’re growing with them as they master new skills and reach new developmental milestones. The collaborative communication through that process is the best part of my role.
How has professional learning contributed to your practice?
Professional learning enhances my knowledge and understanding of children, families, and professionals. London is fortunate to have an abundance of resources, learning communities and specialists. As professionals, it is our obligation to stay in tune with families, the available resources around us, and be knowledgeable about referrals/connections that can be made to support children. Strive, among other organizations, provides diverse professional learning for educators in many different areas. This can assist when observing or interacting with a child, and supportive strategies to accompany them.
Do you have a favourite quote?
A child’s life is like a piece of paper in which every person leaves a mark.
~ Robert A. Heinlein
This quote is a reminder for me that everything you do matters. It may sometimes feel that what you do isn’t making an impact or isn’t good enough, but don’t give up. Milestone moments in a child’s life are made up of many small meaningful moments. You can’t always see the significance you’re making in a child’s life but don’t stop trying, it’s still there.
If you were an ice cream flavor, what flavour would you be and why?
That’s a hard one. A part of me wants to say vanilla because I tend to go with the flow and can adapt easily. On the other hand, I’d say an ‘Everything but the Kitchen Sink’ kind of ice cream. It gives me mix media art vibes, putting your unique twist on things, letting out your creative and artistic side.
Welcome to the Strive Team, Sam! We are so excited to work with you!
Join us in extending Sam a warm welcome by commenting below!