Ashley A.

Education

Florida International University,
BFA in Theater

Professional Childcare Experience

Full-time Nanny
New York, NY, 09/14 - Present
One girl, age 3

Part-time Babysitter
Chicago, IL, 09/12 - 08/14
Two girls, ages 2 and 6

Part-time Babysitter
New York, NY, 11/13 - 08/14
One girl, age 9 and one boy, age 4

Part-time Babysitter
Chicago, IL, 12/11 - 05/14
One girl, age 5 and one boy, 6 months

Camp Counselor and Camp Director
Miami, FL, 06/03 - 08/10
Girls and boys, ages 3 to 11 years

Other Experience

Ballet teacher and Assistant Manager
Chicago, IL, 09/10 - 08/14

Math & Reading Tutor
Miami, FL, 09/09 - 05/10

About me

As a sophomore in high school, I started my first job as a camp counselor at a children's musical theater camp. I had expected to be fulfilled artistically but the most wonderful experience of that summer was when I discovered the beautiful connection I shared with so many of my students. I still have the fondest memories of when a 5-year-old gave me his first hug or when an 8-year-old was floored with excitement when she auditioned for the role of Mrs. Hannigan and (without any doubt in mind) won the part. For the past 10 years, my work as an arts educator and babysitter has allowed me to further strengthen that connection as I creatively introduce the arts into the daily life of a child. One of my most thrilling experiences has been teaching at A Fairytale Ballet where each class, young girls and boys are exposed to the traditional ballet technique in a completely refreshing way inspired by treasured fairytales and classical music. I quickly began to build a truly special bond with some of my students, and not to mention their wonderfully kind parents, that I insisted spending more quality time with them outside of class. Growing up in a such a large Hispanic family, I longed for those moments of laughter, silliness and genuine excitement.

When working with children, I am devoted to instilling that creative imagination in a very safe and encouraging environment. I am extremely sensitive to each child’s personal needs and it's not only important that they trust me, but that they feel confident and empowered when we’re together. Many of my teaching and babysitting sessions have enriched my life tremendously as both a person and artist. I am constantly working on my craft as an actor and would love the opportunity to collaborate with a theater company whose work is both challenging and rewarding. No matter what though, I'll always find a way to surround myself with kids, whether it be babysitting, teaching, or just many of my own, because the day just isn't as fun without them in it.


I have professional child care experience with...

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    Infants
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    Toddlers
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    Preschoolers
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    School-aged (K-5)
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    Preteen

In 5 years, I hope to be...

Working alongside other artists I admire as a member of a wonderful theater company. Whether it be acting, writing, producing developmental work, or teaching, I hope to find, or create, that environment where I can continue to challenge myself daily.

Activities & skills I love to teach & share with children...

There's nothing I enjoy more than reading a book to a child. When I was younger, I used to beg my mom to read me the same Shel Silverstein poems over and over again in different accents, and poor her, she obliged me each time. But I looked forward to that special ritual, just between us, each and every night. Now as a sitter, I've realized how significant that reading time is in building a trusting relationship with the child. I find it the best opportunity to talk about any hopes, desires or concerns in a truly relaxed way while all the while maintaining such a playful atmosphere. I also thoroughly enjoy teaching ballet to young children, writing our own plays together, teaching them how to speak and write in Spanish, painting and doing anything outdoors!