Hi, I'm Gabi!
Tell us a little bit about yourself. I am a graduate of NYU Tisch with a minor in Childhood Development with a focus in autism. I've been working with children in different facets for about ten years. I helped develop and teach a summer arts non-profit program in my hometown for children ages 4-16. I'm a strong proponent of positive discipline and communication with children. I believe that children's capabilities are far more extensive than our society tends to give them credit for. My class is a program that explores creativity to help children learn to interact with others, develop independence and learn to communicate in kindness.
What is your philosophy on and approach to behavioral management? Positive discipline. I believe in speaking clearly about expectations of behavior but taking the time to communicate with children one on one when they are having a problem or a behavioral issue. Communication as opposed to yelling.
Who was your favorite teacher and why? Michele Shay. She was my freshman year acting teacher. This is a time in early adulthood that could be somewhat paralleled to PreK. Students are newly separated from parental supervision and comfort, emotions are being deeply explored for the first time, and your developing a new identity and independence.
Ms. Shay developed a personal relationship with each of us. She knew things about us and took the time to LISTEN. She wasn't obsessed with a schedule if something more important or interesting came into play in the classroom. Our emotional brain was just as important to her as our educational one and she created a nurturing space that was safe to explore and take risks in.
Do you have experience working with children with special needs? Experience with children with Autism and Sensory Processing Disorders, although I still have much to learn. I offered a safe space when things got too overwhelming.
Credentials. CPR, some coursework in early childhood education.
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