Last Day Q&A: Lauren George

Family support specialist Lauren George brings a wealth of knowledge to her role as a former infant teacher, Certified Lactation Consultant, and mom of two young children. Learn more about her experiences below!

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

Every Friday we had cleaning parties. Each child would have a wet wash cloth, and we would play dance music. The kids loved cleaning every nook.

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 patient and get to know the families and children before trying to teach. The children need to know you are safe and that their needs are met first and foremost.

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

While still in school, I worked at a child care program, floating between four infant classrooms. It was the best job ever – I held for and cared for babies all day. I was able to observe and learn from some of the most talented and loving infant caregivers that summer, solidifying my passion for the youngest children.

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

Enjoy every single second, even the hard times, because the years go by so fast. Parenting is the hardest and most rewarding thing, and your kids grow way too fast.

What has been your favorite age as a parent? 

I am sure this comes as no surprise, but I LOVE babies. Nine to twelve months is such a fun age, and I would have a million more babies if they stayed small forever.

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

My kids are so funny! I love having conversations with them, hearing their personalities come out, and watching them interact with each other.

What is the best advice you ever got about parenting?

I think the best advice I have received is around being physically and emotionally present for my kids. Everything else can wait – if your child needs you, even just to be in the same room as them, be there.

What is/were your favorite activities to do with your children?

For me, I love watching my kids do things they love, whether it is watching my daughter play soccer or listening to my son talk about video games. As a family, we enjoy playing outside, going on hikes, exploring new parks, and sharing our own interests with our kids, like gardening.

Want to learn more about Lauren? Check out her previous Last Day Q&A feature.