Great Pines First School

For more than thirty years, I have worked with young children and families, guided by the belief that curiosity is at the heart of learning. With a PhD in the Sociology of Childhood, I have collaborated with educators across Europe and the U.S., exploring what high-quality early education looks like in everyday practice. As a teacher, mentor, lecturer, and school director, I see learning as a living relationship between children, adults, families, and the world. I strongly advocate for children’s right to play and strive to bring research into meaningful, engaging classroom experiences that support children’s development and sense of wonder.

I began my career as a speech and language therapist, where a deep curiosity about how children communicate — with and without words — first took root. My work as an educator is grounded in careful listening, close observation and the belief that meaningful learning grows through play. My teaching journey began in Brazil and has been shaped by collaborations with schools, researchers, and educators at well-known schools such as Paideia, Sidarta, and Atelier Carambola in Brazil, as well as Jardin Fabulinus in Argentina. Drawing from language, design, photography, and play, I strive to create learning experiences where children feel seen and ideas can unfold. When not teaching, you’ll probably find me playing board games, dancing, or at the gym — all excellent excuses to laugh and move. But most of all, I love spending time with my daughter and visiting her at Colby College (where I try not to embarrass her too much).