Caring for children: Hanscom providers give it their all

Published May 5, 2011
By Sarah Olaciregui
66th Air Base Group Public Affairs

HANSCOM AIR FORCE BASE, Mass. -- Children are the future and the child care providers who take care of them know they have a big role in shaping it. Because of the providers' hard work and dedication, family services staff and parents honored them throughout the week and are wrapping up celebrations on May 6 with Provider Appreciation Day.

"The providers and the teachers put forth an amazing effort every day," said Kristen Melvin, Training and Curriculum specialist. "It is great to have a week to recognize all the work they put into caring and nurturing for the children of Hanscom."

Staff from Family Child Care, School Age Program and Child Development Center work hard in laying a strong foundation for children. All staff must go through 24 hours of training prior to beginning their job, plus 24 hours of additional training each year. Family child care providers are trained and licensed before they may begin caring for children in their home.

As a way to say thanks, managers, supervisors and parents wanted to make sure the providers knew how much they were appreciated. Throughout the week, providers were treated to fruit baskets, bagels, cookies and more. Today, the Parent Advisory Board will honor child care providers with a luncheon.

"As the FCC coordinator, I am honored to work with some of the most amazing caregivers who strive to make sure their children are receiving top quality care and love all while following the Air Force and DoD standards that keep our children safe and healthy," said Courtney Cann.

Ms. Cann currently works with family child care providers who care for several children in their home. Their attentiveness and care benefit the children and families, as evidenced from parent feedback.

"I love Ms. Catherine," said Karen Koyutis, who leaves her 4 year old, Nasta, with Catherine Gilbert each day. "She has been a tremendous help to me and it's great to work together as a team in the best interests of my child."

Another provider, Leonor Ayala, who recently earned accreditation from the National Association for Family Child Care, takes care of her own children, as well as 3-year-old Justin Chapman.

"Leonor is an awesome person," said Melinda Atterberry, Justin's mother. "I am so glad that she had space for Justin. (Family Child Care) was an all around great decision!"

Providers at the CDC take care of 245 children, from infants to 5 year olds.

"The teachers at the CDC do a fantastic job of providing wonderful experiences for the children in the center," said Colleen Davis, CDC director. "I feel fortunate to work with such a dedicated, compassionate and skillful team. It is great to have a time when we can collectively celebrate and show appreciation for what they do each day."

Ms. Davis also knows her providers sometimes become a part of the children's family.

"The teachers at the center feel like an extension of our family and sometimes our child doesn't want to leave in the afternoon," said parent Kelly Kane.

Another parent passed along a note to Ms. Davis recently.

"We have had two children attend the CDC," the note stated. "With each child, it has been a joy watching them grow with all they learn in the CDC. The entire staff has been caring and nurturing. The days are filled with fun activities, and the field trips have expanded our children's knowledge in the community and have been fun. We have sincerely appreciated the team that makes the CDC a success."

Staff at the school age program also have a big job. Ten providers take care of 72 kids after school and that number jumps to more than 100 children in the summer because of several camps.

Provider Appreciation Day began in 1996 by a group of volunteers in New Jersey. These founders saw the need to recognize the efforts of providers who care for children of working parents. Momentum for this event has grown over the years and recognition now takes place throughout North America, Europe and Asia.

Anyone who wishes to receive further information about becoming a child care provider may contact Ms. Cann at 781-377-1695.