Introduction to Alana Parsons: A dedicated Level 3 Early Years Practitioner

At the heart of Mama Bears’ commitment to nurturing their team is Alana Parsons, a dedicated Level Three Early Years Educator at the Stanbridge Nursery and Preschool location. Joining the nursery on 1st March this year, Alana brings a wealth of experience and a passion for early years education. Her journey from an apprentice to a key member of the team demonstrates her dedication and the supportive environment offered by Mama Bears. In the article, we delve into Alana’s daily responsibilities, her reflections on the joys and challenges of childcare, and her aspirations for the future.

A Passion for Early Years Education

Alana is a Level 3 Early Years Practioner at Mama Bears’ Stanbridge location and embarked on her journey with the nursery on 1st March this year. With a background in childcare that includes an apprenticeship and previous nursery experience, Alana has quickly become a valued member of Mama Bear’s team.

Her decision to join Mama Bear’s was driven by the nursery's supportive environment and commitment to staff development. Alana was particularly drawn to Mama Bears' no-lone working policy and its focus on internal career progression. "I really liked the idea that they promote from within rather than looking elsewhere for new staff," Alana explains. This commitment to staff growth, coupled with the benefits of working within a larger organisation with multiple nursery locations in the South West, was a key factor in her decision to start working there.

Starting with Mama Bear’s, Alana found the induction process smooth and supportive. Her manager’s understanding nature and the structured introduction to policies and procedures made the transition into her new role a positive experience. "The induction was very well explained, and I was given time to digest the policies gradually," she notes. This supportive atmosphere has been instrumental in helping her thrive in her role.

As an Early Years Practitioner, Alana’s days are filled with a variety of responsibilities. From preparing the room for the children to planning activities tailored to each child’s needs, her role is both dynamic and rewarding. She takes pride in helping children grow and preparing them for the next big step in school. "One of the most rewarding aspects is seeing children who first came in upset, leaving with big smiles, and eager to stay," she shares. 

Alana’s passion for education is evident in her role as an English Additional Language (EAL) lead. Her dedication to supporting children who first attend the nursery with no understanding of the English language and progressing into being bilingual and multilingual children highlights her commitment to ensuring every child receives the best possible start. "Seeing children who initially couldn't speak English, beginning to communicate and understand is incredibly fulfilling," she says.

In the following sections, we’ll explore Alana’s daily responsibilities, the joys and challenges she encounters, and her aspirations for the future.

Embracing the Daily Challenges and Joys

Alana's role at Mama Bear involves many different daily, weekly, and monthly tasks, each crucial to the smooth running of the nursery and the well-being of the children. Depending on her shift, which can be opening or closing, her day begins with preparing the room for the children. This often involves setting up activities and personalised items, such as name tags and themed decorations, to create a welcoming environment. "We set up the room with activities and personalised touches, taking into account the children's observations and development goals," Alana explains.

One of Alana's primary responsibilities is to plan activities tailored to each child's needs. Every week, she prepares at least one activity for each key child in her care, ensuring that the activities support their development and growth. This planning process is a significant part of her role and allows her to cater to the individual needs of each child. "Planning activities for each child helps them develop in every possible way before they start school," she says.

Despite the rewards of her role, Alana acknowledges that there are challenges. One of the most difficult aspects of working in early years education is saying goodbye to the children when they move on to start school. Although many of the children continue at the same school where Mama Bear’s is based, and Alana gets to see them during breaks, parting with them can be emotional. "The hardest part is seeing them leave, but you take pride in knowing you've prepared them for their next adventure," she reflects.

Alana also enjoys observing the children as they transition from nursery to school life. Although the nursery and the school are separate entities, the proximity allows for continued interaction. Alana enjoys seeing the children come back to share their achievements, such as their new school uniforms, and witnessing their pride in their progress.

In addition to her core responsibilities, Alana is involved in various other roles within the team. She particularly likes sensory play, an area she finds both engaging and enjoyable. "I love anything messy and sensory. Whether it’s play dough or slime, I'm always eager to get involved," she says. This passion for sensory play reflects her commitment to making learning fun and stimulating for the children.

In the next section, we’ll delve into Alana’s career aspirations, her hobbies, and what inspires her both personally and professionally.

Future Aspirations and Personal Insights

Looking ahead, Alana is excited about the opportunities for growth within Mama Bear’s. Her upcoming role as head of the newly established baby area for one- to two-year-olds represents a significant step in her career. This new position not only offers a fresh challenge but also aligns with her interest in furthering her knowledge and skills in childcare. "I’m thrilled about the chance to lead the new baby area and to continue developing my expertise in supporting children with special educational needs," Alana shares.

Alana's enthusiasm for her role is evident in her openness to various career paths within the organisation. She is eager to embrace new responsibilities and see where her career progression at Mama Bear's will lead her. Her dedication to her work and her willingness to take on new challenges underscore her commitment to providing the best possible care and education for the children.

Outside of her professional life, Alana enjoys spending time with her family, particularly her nephews. She values these moments, taking them out on adventures and engaging in activities that strengthen their bond. In addition, Alana is passionate about football and travel. She actively participates in sports and supports Liverpool FC, while also enjoying trips to Spain, her mother's hometown, and Turkey, where she has family connections and lived for a few years.

A fun fact about Alana is that she was born in Turkey, where she lived until she was three years old. Her near-fluent Turkish language skills are a testament to her early years in the country. "I can hold a conversation in Turkish and get by quite comfortably," she says, highlighting her unique background.

When asked about her favourite children’s book, Alana said it is “The Wonky Donkey,” a book she finds particularly engaging and amusing for children. Her favourite food is sweet and sour chicken, and she enjoys reflecting on her childhood memories, including her early aspirations of working in a nursery.

Alana’s advice for anyone considering a career in childcare is both practical and motivational. She emphasises the importance of resilience and a positive mindset, acknowledging the challenges but also highlighting the rewarding aspects of the job. "Childcare can be demanding, but seeing a child’s smile can make it all worthwhile," she says.

In the final section, we explore the inspirational figures in Alana’s life and the best piece of advice she ever received, as well as reflecting on her journey and achievements at Mama Bear’s.

Inspiration and Advice

Alana finds immense inspiration in her sister, who exemplifies the balancing act of running a business while raising three young children. Her sister’s ability to manage these responsibilities with grace and determination serves as a powerful motivator for Alana. “My sister is my biggest inspiration,” Alana says. “She runs her own business while managing the demands of being a mum to three boys under six. Seeing how far she’s come and how she handles everything is incredibly motivating.”

Reflecting on why she chose to work in childcare, Alana traces her passion back to her own early years. From a young age, she loved interacting with younger children and organising activities for them. This natural inclination evolved into a deeper understanding of the critical impact early years education has on a child’s development. “I always preferred playing with younger children, and as I grew older, I realised how important early years care is in giving children the best possible start in life,” she explains.

For those considering a career in childcare, Alana offers insightful advice. She stresses the importance of resilience and a positive attitude, acknowledging the highs and lows of the profession. “The job can be demanding, and there will be challenging days. However, the rewarding moments, like seeing a child’s smile, make it all worthwhile,” she advises. Alana also suggests gaining some experience through an apprenticeship and completing a level three childcare qualification, to understand more about child development and care.

The best piece of advice Alana has received comes from her manager, who frequently shares motivational quotes. “Every day is a new day,” her manager says. “You start fresh, turn over a new leaf, and carry on with a smile on your face.” This advice resonates with Alana, reflecting her optimistic approach to both her professional and personal life.

In conclusion, Alana’s journey at Mama Bear’s showcases her dedication, passion, and continuous growth. Her role not only highlights her commitment to early years education but also her ability to inspire and motivate others through her own experiences and achievements. 

A Summary of Alan’s Journey With Mama Bears

Alana's journey at Mama Bear’s is a testament to her dedication, passion, and the profound impact that a committed early years educator can have. From her role in shaping the daily experiences of children to her involvement in setting up new initiatives, Alana embodies the spirit of nurturing and growth that defines the best in childcare. Her enthusiasm for her own continuous personal and professional development matches her commitment to creating engaging and supportive environments for young people.

Alana's story not only highlights her achievements but also serves as an inspiration to others in the field. Her ability to balance the joys and challenges of her role, coupled with her strong sense of purpose and resilience, is a shining example of what it means to be a dedicated childcare professional. As she looks to the future, embracing new responsibilities and opportunities, it is clear that Alana will continue to make a significant impact at Mama Bear’s and beyond.

In reflecting on her journey, Alana’s advice to those considering a career in childcare is both practical and encouraging. It underscores the importance of perseverance, positivity, and the rewarding nature of the profession. Her experiences and insights offer valuable lessons for anyone looking to make a difference in the lives of young children, making her an inspiring figure in early years education.

Explore Careers at Mama Bear’s: Join Our Growing Family

Are you inspired by Alana’s career development and eager to start a career in childcare? We are always looking for passionate individuals who want to work in the childcare industry and care about children's early development.

If you are thinking about embarking on a career in childcare, Mama Bear’s offers a range of opportunities for professional development and career progression. Our branches are not just workplaces; they are vibrant communities where you can thrive and make a meaningful impact.

If you want to work for a company that values its people and celebrates their successes, and you want to be part of an amazing team, explore our current openings and find out why Mama Bear’s nurseries are a fulfilling place to work.

You can visit our Careers Page to find out more and apply today. Join us in shaping the future of young children and becoming part of Mama Bear's family. We look forward to hearing from you.