A Heartfelt Surprise and a Gentle Reminder

What a pleasant surprise it was—a small gift from a child, though of course, it was the parents behind the thoughtful gesture. Just the idea that someone would take time to show appreciation to their child’s educator is so heartwarming. It reminds me that there are still parents who truly value and respect the role we play in their child’s life. After all, we spend long hours with their little ones, guiding, teaching, and caring for them as if they were our own.

Sadly, not all parents share the same appreciation. Believe it or not, there are some who still think of us as nothing more than babysitters. I’ve heard the hurtful term “glorified babysitter” more times than I can count—and every time, it stings. It dismisses everything we do and all the knowledge and dedication we bring to the classroom.

I hold a bachelor’s degree from my home country, and I also earned a diploma in Early Childhood Education here in Quebec. In 2015, the Ministère de la Famille recognized my qualifications and granted me a Level 2 certification the moment I entered the daycare field. Today, I am proudly working toward reaching Level 7. I’ve poured years of real-life experience and professional knowledge into this work—yet the salary often doesn’t match our efforts or our level. Still, I persist.

Unfortunately, some parents raise their eyebrows as if we lack any formal education. It’s true that not every educator has a degree—but many of them have a deep, natural understanding of how to connect with and care for young children. They aren’t simply “watching” the kids. They assist in implementing activity themes, supporting the work of qualified educators, and enriching the children's daily experience.

So when I receive even the smallest token of appreciation, it means the world to me. It’s not about the gift—it’s about being seen. It touches my heart and inspires me to keep giving my best. Every day, I work with love and purpose to help these little ones grow. We do far more than people realize. We support their emotional, physical, cognitive, and social development, one moment at a time.

These little angels depend on us—and we’re here, not just caring for them, but guiding them, inspiring them, and helping shape their future. That is our calling, and it’s a beautiful one.

Thank you, from the bottom of my heart.