Valerie Babbe

Title
Preschool Teacher

Education
BS and MS in Early Education, Waldon University

Years at CCD
3 years

What do you want people to know about your teaching philosophy?
My teaching philosophy emphasizes that children are capable, curious, and active participants in their own learning journey, with teachers acting as facilitators and co-learners who guide inquiry and document the learning process. Classrooms are seen as a "third teacher," featuring an inviting, nature-rich environment with open-ended materials that provoke creativity and exploration. Documentation, such as photos and quotes, makes the learning process visible, and projects are child-initiated and evolve based on their interests and interactions over time.

Why do you find the work you do important?
As an early childhood teachers find their work important because it allows them to make a significant, positive difference in children's lives by nurturing their development during the formative years, laying the groundwork for lifelong learning and success. It is a rewarding profession that provides personal fulfillment through witnessing children's milestones, inspiring a love of learning, developing social and emotional skills, and having a lasting impact on families and communities.

Anything else you'd like to share?
An early childhood teacher has many insights beyond the basics of classroom management, from the profound joy of witnessing a child's growth to the importance of building strong partnerships with families. Many teachers share advice on embracing the nature of children's learning, managing the profession's emotional and physical demands, and the importance of self-reflection.