Maria Camila Merchan
Calgary
Summary
Alberta-certified Early Childhood Educator Level 2 with 10+ years of experience supporting infants, toddlers, and preschoolers. Skilled in designing and implementing play-based programs, mentoring staff, and creating nurturing environments that promote children’s holistic development. Passionate about fostering strong relationships with families and supporting lifelong learning through inclusive, child-centered practices.
Overview
18
18
years of professional experience
Work History
Lead Junior Preschool Teacher
Kids U
10.2018 - Current
- Lead educator for Jr. Preschool program, designing and implementing inquiry-based curriculum
- Mentor assistant teachers and model positive guidance strategies
- Conduct family interviews, developmental observations, and portfolio documentation
- Collaborate on support plans for children with diverse needs
- Coordinate seasonal classroom events and family engagement activities
- Assisted with new family orientations, tours, CRM, and 1Core
- Presented during campus-wide PD days and mentored across campuses on executive functions of the brain and the Fueling Brains application
Toddler Sports & Music Instructor
The City of Calgary
09.2013 - 09.2014
- Facilitated music and movement programs for toddlers and caregivers
- Supported early motor skill development and parent-child bonding
Preschool Teacher
The City of Calgary
09.2013 - 06.2014
- Created weekly learning plans aligned with developmental goals
- Integrated music, sensory play, and open-ended art into daily routines
Youth Program & Event Leader
The City of Calgary
01.2008 - 01.2014
- Led youth in leadership and skill-building programs
- Organized large community events including Stampede and New Year's celebrations
Education
Early Childhood Education – Level 2 -
CDI College
07.2025
Certification - Brain Story Certification
Alberta Family Wellness Initiative
Calgary02-2024
Certification - Principles of Healthy Child Development
Alberta Recreation And Parks Association
Calgary, AB06-2011
High School Diploma - undefined
Minuto de Dios High School
01.2007
Skills
- Curriculum & Program Planning
- Child-Centered & Inclusive Practices
- Early Learning Environments Setup
- Team Collaboration & Leadership
- Family Communication & Engagement
- Positive Guidance & Behavior Support
- Documentation & Observations
- Safety, CPR & Emergency Response
- Bilingual: English & Spanish
- Positive reinforcement
- Child development
- Classroom management
Professional Development
- Inclusive Practices & Cultural Sensitivity
- Positive Behavior Guidance Strategies
- Trauma-Informed Practices (Brain Story)
Timeline
Lead Junior Preschool Teacher
Kids U
10.2018 - Current
Toddler Sports & Music Instructor
The City of Calgary
09.2013 - 09.2014
Preschool Teacher
The City of Calgary
09.2013 - 06.2014
Youth Program & Event Leader
The City of Calgary
01.2008 - 01.2014
High School Diploma - undefined
Minuto de Dios High School
Early Childhood Education – Level 2 -
CDI College
Certification - Brain Story Certification
Alberta Family Wellness Initiative
Certification - Principles of Healthy Child Development
Alberta Recreation And Parks Association
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