Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Timeline
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Emily Smart

Emily Smart

Early Childhood Educator / small Business Owner
Wellard,WA

Summary

Early childhood professional with a passion for creating enriching educational experiences.

Supporting the creation of inclusive, engaging learning environments inspired by the Reggio Emilia philosophy, valuing children as capable, curious learners. Implementing and facilitating play-based, inquiry-driven experiences that supported children’s cognitive, social, and emotional development. Collaborates closely with educators to observe, reflect, and adapt learning experiences in response to children’s interests. Fosters a nurturing environment that encourages exploration, relationships, and self-expression, while maintaining open and respectful communication with families regarding children’s learning journeys and developmental milestones.

With over 15 years of experience in early childhood education, I have gained a deep understanding of how children learn best through play, curiosity, and meaningful connections. Working closely with young children and families inspired me to create and sell unique, thoughtfully designed resources for educators and parents that support child-led learning. These resources are created to extend children’s interests, encourage creativity and exploration, and foster rich learning experiences across both educational and home environments. Through this work, I aim to support educators and families in nurturing children’s natural curiosity and love of learning.

Overview

16
16
years of professional experience

Work History

Lead Educator

Jellybeans Childcare Wellard
Wellard, WA
08.2017 - 02.2020
  • Influenced by the Reggio Philosophy and my passion for creating engaging environments, I developed and implemented natural experiences tailored to children's interests and developmental needs.
  • Nurtured creativity by providing ample opportunities for artistic expression through various mediums like painting, drawing, or crafting projects.
  • Facilitated daily activities that promote physical, emotional, and social growth in children.
  • Managed classroom materials effectively, ensuring organization and accessibility for both students and staff members alike.
  • Collaborated with fellow educators to establish a nurturing environment that promoted physical, mental, and emotional wellbeing.
  • Evaluated children's developmental milestones and adjusted programs accordingly for optimal outcomes.
  • Supported various child behaviours by implementing positive reinforcement strategies, continuous communication with parents throughout the process.
  • Implemented individualised education plans to support diverse learning needs, while working along side Inclusion Support staff.
  • Supported children's emotional growth through compassionate listening and guidance during challenging situations.
  • Collaborated with parents to provide updates on children's progress.
  • Communicated regularly with parents regarding their child's development, addressing concerns and celebrating milestones together.
  • Created meaningful and respectful relationships with families, building a sense of trust between them and myself.
  • Mentored junior educators, providing guidance on best practices in early childhood education.

Diploma Qualified Educator

Maragon Early Learning Centre Wellard
Perth, WA
01.2017 - 06.2017
  • Implemented age-appropriate educational experiences fostering creativity and critical thinking.
  • Fostered children’s learning through implementing my passion for the Reggio philosophy.
  • Facilitated student-led, inquiry-based activities to enhance learning experiences.
  • Collaborated with parents to support children's developmental goals and progress.
  • Built relationships and communicated with parents to provide best learning environment for children.
  • Improved the overall childcare experience for families by providing attentive support, addressing concerns promptly, and offering helpful resources.
  • Collaborated with colleagues to develop and revise curriculum, enhancing learning experiences.
  • Supported the transition from home life into childcare setting by providing a comforting presence during separation periods.
  • Participated in ongoing professional development opportunities to stay informed on best practices within childcare settings.

Casual Early Childhood Educator

Nippers Childcare Centre
Perth, WA
11.2016 - 12.2016
  • Developed and implemented age-appropriate curriculum to foster cognitive and emotional growth.
  • Cultivated a safe and nurturing environment for children, ensuring emotional well-being and development.
  • Established positive relationships with children through play-based learning methodologies, enhancing social skills.
  • Shared knowledge of the RIE Philosophy with Centre Director, implementing those practices into the Infants room and with staff.
  • Maintained and fostered positive and constructive interactions with staff, families, and children.
  • Sanitized toys and play equipment each day to maintain safety and cleanliness.
  • Boosted children''s social skills development through group projects and collaborative games.
  • Applied play-based strategies to provide diverse approaches to learning.

Educator

Arohanui and Harinui Early Childhood Learning Centre
New Zealand
02.2004 - 10.2013
  • Implement the centre’s philosophy, (Reggio Emilia) incorporating aspects into my teaching and care practices.
  • Incorporate the RIE philosophy while working with infants. Provide infants with a safe and cognitively challenging environment, encourage uninterrupted free play and movement.
  • Prepare a classroom or outdoor area with resources before the day begins
  • Support a child’s curiosity and knowledge
  • Maintain portfolios with learning stories on selected children
  • Constantly implement the curriculum
  • Develop relationships with children, parents and staff
  • Take part in planning and evaluation of children’s work
  • Attend staff meetings and team building
  • Create a learning environment that will encourage and support children’s interests

Education

Diploma - Diploma of Early Childhood Education

Open Polytechnic of New Zealand
New Zealand
2013

Certificate - Tertiary Study Skills

Open Polytechnic of New Zealand
New Zealand
2007

Timeline

Lead Educator

Jellybeans Childcare Wellard
08.2017 - 02.2020

Diploma Qualified Educator

Maragon Early Learning Centre Wellard
01.2017 - 06.2017

Casual Early Childhood Educator

Nippers Childcare Centre
11.2016 - 12.2016

Educator

Arohanui and Harinui Early Childhood Learning Centre
02.2004 - 10.2013

Diploma - Diploma of Early Childhood Education

Open Polytechnic of New Zealand

Certificate - Tertiary Study Skills

Open Polytechnic of New Zealand
Emily SmartEarly Childhood Educator / small Business Owner