Ms. Susan

With over 30 years caretaking experience, I’d say this is truly my passion! I started working in child care when I was practically a child myself. During high school, I interned at Hogan Regional Center in Danvers, working with children with severe physical disabilities. It was hard work, but it was very rewarding to see the kids learn new skills and feel proud of their accomplishments. Once I started my own family, I began to work as a private caretaker for elderly people, who were often suffering from dementia. I’ve found that, regardless of age, many caretaking principles are the same: create a nurturing environment, figure out what works for the people (or children!) in your care, and remain flexible. While I think routines are important, I’m not a stickler for keeping strict schedules. I believe kids learn best when they feel seen and heard—so I will always shape my program around what works best for each child. People tell me that I have a gift for working with the elderly and young—and I guess it’s true. I just love teaching children, helping them grow, and watching them become their own little individuals.

In my program, the kids come first. I create daily schedules and goals, with the exception to adjust my plans depending on how the children are feeling that day. I want the children to look forward to coming to their program as I want parents to view my home as an extension of their own. It is my priority for the kids to feel safe, nurtured, and loved. ABC Grow With Me Playschool is also a place for children to learn and grow. I know that children learn best through hands-on instruction, play and of course and mostly patience. Our days are filled with immersive activities, ranging from painting to storytelling, and more! One of our favorite activities is caring for our herb garden. By helping to water the garden and watching it grow, children learn important lessons about responsibility, patience, nutrition, and beyond! At ABC Grow With Me Playschool, we are a family, and children are cared for in a small environment with lots of one-on-one attention. Welcoming children of all ages, and I look forward to working with parents to create the best experience for the whole family.

ABC Grow With Me Playschool is truly a ‘home away from home.’ ABC Grow With Me Playschool includes the entire first floor of my home. Throughout the day, we move between the play room—filled with games, arts and crafts, and other hands-on activities—and the quiet room with individual mats for naptime and books for quiet reading. It is my perspective that children will be in school or at work for the rest of their lives, so for the few years that they are in my care, I want them to feel safe and secure in a home environment.