"From Young Learners to Aspiring Educators: A Journey Through Early Childhood Education"

For over twenty years, I have dedicated my life to the vibrant, challenging, and immensely rewarding field of early childhood education. My journey in early childhood education has been one of immense joy, continuous learning, and unwavering passion. The laughter, curiosity, and boundless potential of young children have been driving forces behind my career. My journey from an early childhood educator to a successful business owner and now continuing as a lecturer is a testament in my unwavering commitment to early learning.

Passion and Dedication

I started my journey with a profound believe: every child deserves a solid foundation of love, support, quality education without discrimination. Over the years, I have witnessed the transformative power of quality early childhood education. With this I dedicated in creating nurturing and stimulating environment for every child to learn to their own pace. As believing every child is unique. Every child in the preschool should feel they are valued, was my top priority. As a business owner, I have navigated the complexities of running an early childhood education centre, balancing the demands of maintaining a high standard of care while ensuring the sustainability of my business. My ability to changing educational paradigms and integrate innovative practices has kept my centre at the forefront of the industry. Owning 7 preschools was a great achievement in my life, witnessing countless children, setting them on a path of lifelong learning and success.

Journey in Professional Development

Remaining passionate and effective in this fields requires a commitment to ongoing professional development. Throughout my career, I have actively sought opportunities to expand my knowledge and skills. Like attending workshops, conference and pursuing further education have not only enriched my practice but also reignite my passion for teaching. Professional development empowers educators to implement innovative approaches and continuously improve the quality of education we provide.

Embracing Innovation, Change and Challenges

The past two decades, field of early childhood education have brought their share of challenges. From adapting to new technologies and educational frameworks to navigating the unprecedented disruptions caused by the COVID -19 pandemic, the landscape of early childhood education is constantly evolving. These challenges, however, have also presented opportunities for growth and innovation. During the pandemic, we witnessed the resilience of children and the adaptability od educators. We embraced virtual learning platforms, developed new ways to engage children remotely, and find creative solutions to support families. This experience highlighted the importance of flexibility and the ability to embrace change in the early childhood profession.

Transition to Academia, Sharing Knowledge & Experience

With valuable hands – on experience, I felt a calling to impact my wealth of knowledge in aspiring teachers. This transition role allows me to share my knowledge, insights and to influence the future of early childhood education at a border scale. In my opinion, preparing future teachers is both an honour and a responsibility. These young professionals will shape the minds and hearts of countless children and I am committed to equip them with the tools and inspirations they need. In my lecture room, not only theories and methodologies been taught, perhaps it is enriched with real world experience, challenges and success stories that give priceless wisdom. I celebrate the pleasure in helping young teachers to understand the nuances of early childhood education beyond textbooks. With this I embed that every child is an individual with unique strength and potential, I believe in creating inclusive classrooms where diversity is celebrated. Practical strategies, such as differentiated, instructions and culturally responsive teaching are core components of my curriculum.

"Quality Early Learnings for Young Minds”

Shamani@Jegathambal Munusamy

Head of Programme,

Bachelor In Early Childhood Education,

City University Malaysia

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