Ashley believes that children have an endless capacity for curiosity and wonder, and that they deserve the camaraderie and companionship of adults who honor that spirit of discovery. Ashley promotes learning through play that encourages observation, exploration, and conversation. Ashley’s style of teaching is to guide children safely through their choices and to gently challenge them to reach beyond their comfort zones to expand their worlds. She models patience, respect, and affection through listening and the deep observation of a child. As she begins this new adventure at Rainbow Gardens, Ashley brings over 10 years of experience in Early Childhood education in a variety of childcare settings, including as an Assistant Teacher for birth-2 years at Turtle Island in Montpelier, and over 8 years as a Nanny caring for children from 3 months to 10 years in the Montpelier and Northfield communities.