BY HEJIRA CONVERY, KINDICARE

MAY 20, 2023

You might not know Hannah Smith by name (yet!), but we can tell you that she is an incredible educator, who also happens to be autistic.  

Hannah’s been working in early childhood education and care since she was 17, and in between raising two neurodivergent kids, building a Family Day Care on a four acre block, and completing several qualifications, Hannah has also taken home the National Educator of the Year Award at the 2022 Excellence in Family Day Care Awards. 

She is always researching ways to improve her service and practices, and Hannah’s love of learning is legendary!  

She takes the time to learn about each child and family she works with, and Hannah is a big fan of knowledge sharing, with a special interest in supporting children with additional needs.  

Hannah is currently completing a Masters in Inclusive Education, and contributed to the Early Education chapter in the latest version of The Australian Autism Handbook.  

In short, Hannah is the kind of educator we’d all love to have!  

She’s passionate and committed, and although there’s only one of her, Hannah has some great advice to help you find the perfect Family Day Care educator for your family.  

She encourages you to start by thinking about what your family values. 

Everyone values different things, and Hannah says, “It’s critical to reflect on what your family really wants from an educator.”  

“This means considering what sort of experience you would like your child to have while in care, and what you most value for your child.” 

When working out your priorities, she says it helps to ask yourself a few questions.  

For example:  

• Do you want an educator who is highly qualified and experienced, over someone who is fresh and eager to learn?  
• Would you prefer a person with a good sense of humour who can gently guide your child, or someone who’s firmer and steers your child’s development towards a strong upward trajectory?  
• Are you after an educator who enjoys story-telling on soft cushions under fairy lights, or would you prefer someone who’s always outside, playing chasing games?
• Are you looking for an educator who aligns with your own family’s culture and language, or is it more important that they love looking after school-aged kids?   
• Do you need someone flexible, who’s happy to offer night-time care at short notice, or is a nine-to-fiver totally fine?
• Would you like your educator to be following the Reggio Emilia approach, or would you prefer someone who’s invested in nature play and the developmental benefits that come with this? 

Then, once you’ve identified your family’s priorities, keep these in mind when you meet with prospective educators.  

Hannah says, “It’s important that they can cater to what you and your child personally need.” 

“So, as well as asking about practical matters, like fees, hours and facilities, I feel it’s important to discuss things like philosophy on play and care expectations.” 

It’s also really important to think about how the educator makes your family feel.  

Specifically, you want to feel welcome and comfortable in their Family Day Care environment, comfortable in their company, and confident that they will do their very best by you and your child. 

Hannah says, “I often feel like extended family to the children I have in care, and although you may not be looking for such a tight personal connection with your educator, you need to know that they’re committed to your child, and are willing to talk with you about any concerns, celebrate the wins, and show a real interest in your family and its dynamic needs.” 

You’ll get a good sense of an educator’s personality and commitment from the moment you first meet them, and once you’ve had a chance to discuss your values and trust your instincts, you’ll likely know if this person is the right choice for your family.  

Online reviews, word-of-mouth recommendations and service ratings also tell you a lot about the kind of education and care you can expect, and choosing a great Family Day Care educator is just the start!  

This person may end up caring for your child (or children) for many years, so shared values continue to matter, and stronger and stronger connections can be built over time.  

Hannah says, “I love that I get to know each child and the families on such a personal level,” and we hope you find an educator who feels the same way.  

To look for amazing Family Day Care in your area, search KindiCare or visit the Family Day Care Australia search portal >>>>