Happy in After Care

Hello! My name is Dana Friedrichsen, and I work in the Early Start room and the After Care program. I am thrilled to be taking on After Care as part of my role at CGS this year.

A bit about me: I grew up in Leaside on Hanna Road, and this community holds a special place in my heart. I graduated from the University of Western Ontario with a degree in Sociology, and during my studies I became fascinated with the sociological development of children. I have always enjoyed working with little ones, even as a child myself I wanted to help those younger than me. I took this passion and completed the Early Childhood Education program at George Brown College. In my spare time, I do Qi Gong and restorative yoga, enjoy live music, exploring the diverse neighbourhoods of Toronto, and spending time with my family and friends.

It is my firm belief that every child deserves to feel good about themselves and their abilities, and that providing opportunities for them to see their own competence is vital for their self-esteem as they grow and get older; I integrate this belief into my work as an educator.

I am happy to be working with the Early Starts again this year, and cannot wait to see how they grow and learn throughout the year. I have a variety of fun activities planned for the After Care program, and I am excited to learn what the children are interested in.

It is going to be a great year! If you have any questions for me, please ask away. I am looking forward to meeting you and your children.

Dana Friedrichsen
Early Start and After Care Teacher
Children’s Garden School