Philosophy
Children are such a wonderful light in this world! Their determination and passion for learning is such an inspiration for me. I firmly believe that children learn best when they feel safe physically, mentally, and emotionally. Children participate more when they know they won’t get hurt. They speak more when they know they won’t be put down for what they say. They try more things out of their comfort zone when they know they will be met with encouragement. The in-home setting of Aunt Niki’s Preschool is meant to encourage this feeling of safety, while still providing a challenging and fun atmosphere to inspire learning. Children should be heard and given the chance to understand, express, and handle their feelings in a healthy way. My desire is to help all of my students to love learning and to be excited to progress.
Meet Aunt Niki!
Hello! I'm Aunt Niki. I just wanted to tell you a little about myself. I am so excited to have this chance to run my own preschool. I love children, and I get so excited when I see them discover and learn. My husband, Joshua, and I have a 2 1/2 year old daughter named Zipporah, and I find so much joy in watching her grow. Family is my priority, and I feel that the home is the best place for children to learn. This is part of why I chose the name Aunt Niki rather than a traditional teaching title. I want children to feel safe and comfortable just as they hopefully would in the homes of their families. I also believe that there are many types of intelligence, and that every child has his/her niche. This is why my preschool is set up with sections that focus on physical movements, sports, and games as well as art, music, and rhythm. Every child is good at something, and I hope to help each child discover his/her strengths and work on his/her weaknesses.
I have been teaching children for a long time in many different settings. I started teaching young children in swimming lessons when I initially became a lifeguard about 12 years ago. I especially loved teaching the children ages 3-5 years old. After a few years of that, I started teaching in a daycare/preschool with primarily 2-4 year old children. I loved working with them, and was able to observe and implement many different teaching techniques. While I was doing this, I was attending college, and was able to receive my Bachelor's in English. After I graduated, I was able to serve a religious service mission in Australia for a year and a half, during which time I had the opportunity to teach many people every day including young children. When I returned from Australia, I had the opportunity to teach a pre-dance class for 2 and 3-year-old children. I learned many techniques that help me keep a class interesting for young children. I have also had the frequent experience of teaching many kids' classes in my martial art. Then, last year, I had the opportunity to teach at a kindergarten/ preschool in China. I absolutely loved the children there! I
was in charge of two classes of 26 for two hours each; one in the morning, and one in the afternoon. It was a wonderful experience that helped me see how much I love children and love teaching.
Also, over the last 12 years, I have had many other chances to teach all ages in various subjects and circumstances. I really just love to teach. I love to help people learn. I also feel most learning is done in informal settings, which is why I treat every moment as a teaching moment, whether formal or not. I want Aunt Niki's Preschool to be a safe place for you and your child. I can't wait to meet you!
Testimonials
