Last Day Q&A: Grace Sededji

As CCA’s first contact for families and child care professionals, CCR&R specialist Grace Sededji‘s name might be familiar to many of you. But, did you know that she was a toddler teacher and is a mom? Learn more below!

What was your favorite activity to do with your kids in the classroom?

When I worked in the toddler classroom, my favorite time/activity was free play. It was so amazing and interesting to see how creative the little ones can get when they have the time to just play and explore.

If you could go back in time, what is one thing you would tell yourself about the night before your first day as an early childhood educator?

Be prepared to learn from the kids! Some of the most fascinating things I’ve learned were from toddlers. Don’t underestimate how clever little kids can be.

One day, we were in the gym and while the kids were playing, one friend bit another friend. About 10 minutes later, after I applied ice and dried tears, the friend that was bit went over to the friend that did the biting and said, “Do you want to be friends?” The two held hands and walked away to play together. It was amazing to see how forgiving the kids were and the kindness they showed to one another even after someone was physically hurt in that situation. My mind was blown away.

Talk about a fellow educator you admired and what you learned most from them.

My home room/ESL teacher in the 6th grade comes to mind. We had just migrated to the U.S. not long before, and I barely knew English. My ability to speak, write, and read English today is all because of her! She always encouraged me, she showed me so much kindness, and she believed in me. As a mom today, I try to make sure I’m exhibiting the same attributes toward my son because it made an impact on life.

If you could go back in time, what is one thing you would tell yourself before you became a parent?

It’s not going to be easy, but it’s definitely worth it!

What has been your favorite thing about being a parent?

I love watching my son grow up. Sometimes I just sit back, shake my head, and laugh a little. He never ceases to amaze me.

What is your favorite thing about your kids at their age now?

He loves to help get things done around the home. He has his own little broom which he loves to sweep with during cleaning up time. Although his dad and I usually have to go back and clean up the mess after he sweeps – but I know it’s all part of the learning process.