| What is your name? Mandi Francis |
| Tell us a bit about yourself I grew up in southwestern Manitoba and completed my post-secondary education there. In 2000, I received a two year diploma in Early Childhood Education from Assiniboine Community College. At my graduation, I was given the Manitoba Child Care Association's "Student of the Year" award for my commitment to quality child care and the professional advancement of Early Childhood Educators. In 2003, I graduated from Brandon University with my Bachelor of General Studies and Bachelor of Education (AD.). I've been married to my wonderful husband Michael, a high school teacher, for four years. We are the proud parents of a busy, bright two year old boy. |
| Where are you located? Whitby - Hwy 2 and Garden Street |
| What is your Daycare name? |
| How did you come up with your daycare name? I was looking around our playroom for inspiration and kept staring at my son's caterpillar toy. I thought that children, like caterpillars, are on a journey through life with many stages and events that help them reach their full potential. Voila, I had THE name! |
| What was your "inspiration" to get involved in the daycare field? Becoming a home childcare provider was a natural progression for me. I've worked with children in a variety of settings - swimming pools and libraries, as well as daycare and elementary school settings. Caring for children in my home just seemed like the 'next step' after I became a parent myself. The combination of children, teaching and family is such an amazing opportunity. Everyday is truly an adventure! |
| What is your favorite part of your "new" profession? There are so many great things about being a home childcare provider. Being at home with my son, Drake, as he grows up, is the best part. But just as rewarding, are the smiles and hugs that I get from my daycare group. I love watching them grow and develop each day. My daycare children have great families and I enjoy interacting with their parents. |
| If you had a $1000 to spend on things for your day care, what would you buy? I'd buy a really nice, toddler sized book shelf and fill it with lots of great books. I'd also buy a train table - my group would love it. I would also like a playhouse for the backyard...oops, I think I ran out of money. |
| How long have you been providing daycare? I started my home daycare in August of 2005. |
| How long have you been a member of the day care association? Since January 2006 (or February, I'm not sure...) |
| Where do you see yourself in 5 years? Well, by then, I'll have another baby...have a bigger house and have a mini van. I'll probably still be doing daycare...I can't see myself ever stopping! |
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| November Spotlight Member |
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| What was your old profession? ECE, teacher |
| How did you learn about the daycare association? From Christine - she told me about how great the association was....she said the resources were awesome and she was right (as usual!) |
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