Tami Zuckerman worked as an elementary teacher in her hometown of Montreal for over a decade. During this time, Tami was appointed special counsel to Montreal’s Lester B Pearson School Board, and often consulted on projects involving early literacy and technology.

After going on maternity leave in 2011, Tami co-founded the award-winning technology startup, VarageSale, relocating her family to the west end of Toronto soon after. While looking for child care for their then 2.5-year-old son, she quickly realized there was a shortage of quality care in the Etobicoke area.

Soon after, Tami was pregnant with her second child, a daughter. Tami’s mission was clear: to create an early childhood education & daycare centre whose quality of care, highly trained educators, and unique programming were unrivalled in Toronto.

Kymberly brings a broad and unique expertise to TLC. She began her career as a kindergarten teacher, and more recently, was the Education Director at Oxford Learning, a leading tutoring service for children of all ages and abilities.

She holds a Masters of Education in Early Childhood and a Bachelor of Arts in Special Education from the University of Florida where she has been the recipient of multiple scholarships, including the esteemed Elizabeth E. Larsen Memorial Scholarship for early childhood education graduate studies. She is an Ontario Certified Teacher and holds special qualifications in literacy interventions, inclusive instruction, and early childhood mathematics.

Kymberly’s daughter, a proud TLC student, led us to cross paths with her. We quickly realized that despite the impressive credentials and expertise, it is her creativity, smile and love for all things childhood that make her a perfect match for the TLC family.

Chinara has been a registered Early Childhood Educator for more than a decade, and takes joy out of making learning fun. She also sees the incredible value in learning from each and every person she encounters — including the little ones. Chinara believes society must direct our resources, wisdom and love towards today’s children in order to create a generation of more empathetic, nurturing and successful human beings. She loves reading, making people laugh, being outdoors and ceasing each day by the moment.

Danielle is a passionate educator who weaves music, movement, problem-solving activities and dramatic play into everything she does. She has spent many years supporting children's development, strengthening their social skills, and teaching self-regulation and emotional intelligence. Danielle has a diploma in Child and Youth Work and has completed the Autism and Behavioral Science program at Seneca College. She has also completed additional training in Positive Early Childhood Education and Children's Yoga and Mindfulness. Danielle strongly believes that children remind us to tap into our own inner child, stay imaginative and model kindness.

I have a passion for exploring important topics in fun and creative ways. If you catch me with a drum in my hand or a basket full of puppets, now you'll know why!

Sharyn brings 33 years of experience as our Behaviour and Developmental Specialist. She specializes in children’s behaviour from birth to the early teen years through individualized and positive parenting techniques.

In 1996, Sharyn founded The Early Years Family Development Center, a support and coaching practice for childhood education professionals and parents alike. Her internationally-renowned “Child Behavior Certification Program” has certified professionals all over the world, including Canada, the USA, Spain, Philippines, Sweden, Saudi Arabia and Russia.

Sharyn’s role at TLC involves continuous training and development of our educators, as well as supporting our parent community.

She holds a degree in Early Childhood Education and multiple other related certifications. She is a wife, mother of three, and grandmother to five grandchildren.

Ed has worked as a Percussionist with some of Canada’s most prestigious orchestras and ensembles, including Tafelmusik Baroque Orchestra, The Canadian Opera Company Orchestra, Opera Atelier, The National Ballet of Canada, The Toronto Symphony Orchestra, The Esprit Orchestra and more. He has also performed with orchestras in Germany, France, the US and other parts of Canada. In addition to his career as a performer, Ed teaches music to students ranging from Pre-K to post-secondary. In 2018, he joined the Royal Conservatory of Music’s faculty as Instructor of Percussion, and has also served as Interim Professor of Percussion at Crane School of Music, Potsdam NY. Since becoming a father, Ed’s interest in early childhood education has changed from a mild interest to a sincere passion — a passion that inspires him every day as TLC’s talented Music Specialist.

When I’m with young people, I’m aware of who I really am and from where we all come.

Ashley is a registered Early Childhood Educator who has been teaching and caring for children ranging from 4 months to 5 years old since 2014. From teaching school readiness to preschoolers, to coaching parent-child gymnastics, to being a mother herself, Ashley believes that her varied experience has helped her become a nurturing childcare worker and a fun, creative educator. In Ashley’s spare time, she enjoys playing her electric guitar, creating balloon art and crafting.

I love building wonderful relationships with families like yours, and I am honoured that I get to help you raise your little one.

Heidi is an Early Childhood Educator. She has over a decade of experience in the field with children from infancy to school-age. She has a true enthusiasm for working with young children and strives to provide a warm and inviting atmosphere.

Jim is TLC’s much-loved Custodian or “Handyman.” Prior to this, he spent 30 years doing mainly heavy labour in the construction industry. He takes extreme pride in his work and enjoys extra tasks such as wooden craft projects. If he’s not busy working on a project, then he is cooking, baking, watching football or participating in his favourite pastime: ball hockey. A former player who represented the Greek National team for 15 years, Jim had the opportunity to compete in various countries around the world. He has also coached both the Men's and Women's Greek National Teams.

I am happily married and the proud father of two teenage boys. I am well liked wherever I go — probably because I'm easy going and approachable. So don’t be shy to ask me about last night’s game… or my latest recipe!

Kyla is our Early Childhood Assistant & Physical Education Specialist. As a youth educator, certified coach, and professional artist, she uses her skills to bring a new perspective to the realm of physical activity. Kyla is passionate about teaching children, and loves to play and coach soccer, create art, and cook.

Physical Education is more than just movement — it's an active, educational and creative adventure for kids to enjoy and grow with.

Diana is a registered Early Childhood Assistant, originally from Colombia. She graduated with a degree in Graphic Design, but after moving to Canada in 2013, she began working almost exclusively with children — first as a nanny, then as an ECA in Toronto and Ottawa. Diana is passionate about bringing fun and creative learning to children through the arts, using her prior education in design to complement TLC’s unique programming.

Creating activities for the children that generate enthusiasm and enable them to explore and discover new ways of interacting with their environments is the highlight of my day! I am very fortunate to have discovered a career that I genuinely love.

Lucy is an Early Childhood Educator with 10 years of experience working in education. She is fun and bubbly with a "can do" attitude. She has excellent time management skills and believes in the power of collaboration. She is someone we are thrilled to have as a role model for the littles at TLC.

Courtney is a registered Early Childhood Educator who is fueled by her passion for teaching and her love of nature. She has been teaching since 2019, and has worked with children of all ages. She is dedicated to developing a safe and nurturing environment where her students can grow and learn in a supportive environment, where everyone can be themselves and have fun. She loves working with children because every day she learns something new from them, their families, and of course from her incredible co-workers. Early Childhood Education is her life's work because this is where she belongs - where she can learn, experience pure joy and truly be herself.

I am a nose wiping, potty helping, hand soaping, crayon drawing, story reading, alphabet singing, number counting, jacket zipping, tear wiping, hug giving difference maker for young children and I wouldn't have it any other way.

Alessia is an Early Childhood Educator who began her journey working with children with exceptionalities in 2017. Her teaching experience combined with a BA in Psychology provided her with a unique opportunity to collaborate with a multitude of childhood development professionals, which allowed her to gain a true understanding of a whole and holistic development of the child. Alessia is passionate about providing inclusive learning programs that provide equitable access to education to all types of learners and needs. A lover of the outdoors, she enjoys connecting her lessons to nature, and creating learning environments that help cultivate a sense of wonder and inquiry.

Every child has a plethora of potential to shine, succeed and grow.

Andrea is an Ontario Certified Teacher who transitioned into the role of Early Childhood Educator after realizing her passion for teaching early-years children. Prior to this, Andrea spent two years teaching students from Kindergarten to Grade 6 in London, England. It was upon her return to Toronto that she discovered the joys of working with early years children, and never looked back. As a preschool teacher, she loves watching little ones grow and learn so many new things every day.

There’s nothing like knowing a child feels safe, happy, and loved in my care.

Brianna is a Registered Early Childhood Educator who is not new to TLC. She previously worked as our much-loved supply teacher — the children absolutely adore her! Brianna brings a sense of calm to any room and has a very nurturing approach to teaching. Her hobbies include musical theatre, dance, and singing.

Brittany spent many years working in the hospitality industry, gaining experience at hotels, restaurants and even Pearson airport before becoming TLC’s trusty Kitchen Manager. Prior to this, she developed a keen interest in community arts when she worked as a curator with a local arts collective that focused on empowering youth and providing creative platforms for marginalized communities. She continues to take great pride in helping others and tries to encourage kindness wherever she goes.

I truly appreciate working with youth — all the encouragement, growth and creativity leads to a lifetime of memories.

Charlene is a Registered Early Childhood Educator who has been working with young children since 2017. She is passionate about supporting her students’ unique needs and stages of development. Charlene approaches each child with empathy and understanding, and makes sure to prioritize their safety, health, and happiness in everything that she does. In her spare time, she enjoys reading, singing, and getting artsy.

My goal is to support each child in their learning and growth in a way that puts their health and happiness first.

Christina is a Registered Early Childhood Educator who has been teaching Pre-K since 2015. She is thrilled to be a part of the TLC family, and believes it is her duty to provide children with the knowledge and lifelong skills that will positively impact how they live each day. In her spare time, Christina keeps busy with balloon arrangements and crafting.

I’m passionate about creating a safe and healthy learning environment for children, one that allows them to explore and thrive.

Emma is an Early Childhood Educator who has been working with children, ranging in age from baby to teen, since 2010. From Nursery Worker to Behavioural Therapist Assistant, Emma’s experience is wide-ranging and comprehensive. She has been responsible for preparing stimulating art and literacy activities, maintaining behavioural program files for individual students, and implementing hands-on, play-based strategies to create experiential learning experiences for little ones. Emma is passionate about caring for children and animals, and fosters cats in her spare time.

Child development is second nature to me.

Erica is a Registered Early Childhood Educator who first started working in childcare as an Early Childhood Assistant in 2017, moving into a full-time ECE role after graduation. Erica truly enjoys creating meaningful connections with the children and their families. Coming from a large Italian family (and being the eldest of four siblings), Erica was always in charge. That’s probably why she knew from a very young age that she was meant to be a “tiny human educator.” Erica’s BA in Psychology has proved invaluable when teaching the Whole Child Approach with a focus on social-emotional learning.

I love that I can be a part of your little one’s early childhood journey and learning experiences.

Fatema is an Early Childhood Educator who is passionate about teaching children. She enjoys building positive relationships with her students and providing extra support to those who need it. Fatema engages the little ones in her classroom by telling stories, teaching poems, preparing crafts, and providing ample opportunities for creative expression. Originally from India, Fatema loves to explore new places and try different cuisines.

Children are great imitators. So give them something great to imitate.

Jeorgina is an Early Childhood Educator who taught Kindergarten to Grade 2 in the Philippines for more than a decade. After moving to Canada, she spent close to 10 years working in various Montessori childcare centres, after which she pursued a diploma in Early Childhood Education. Jeorgina strongly believes that each child has their own style of learning, as well as their own innate capabilities — which must be nurtured and respected.

For me, it is important that I understand each child’s unique needs and adapt my lessons as necessary.

Jessica is an Early Childhood Assistant Educator who has years of experience working with little ones of all ages. In fact, it was during her time as a Child and Youth Worker that she discovered her passion for working in childcare. Also a children's author, Jessica loves to use her own stories in her classrooms, and often combines storytelling with writing and in-class activities. Published books include Never Too Far Away and We All Belong… with more on the way!

I adore mixing fun with education, and enjoy imparting my love of books and reading onto the children.

Julie is a seasoned educator with almost 20 years experience as an Ontario Certified Teacher. She has taught various levels with a focus on Special Education, ESL, and STEM among other things. A student-centred teacher, Julie comes with a proven history of effective classroom management. When her own children were young, she ran an in-home daycare in order to stay at home with them during their early years, In her spare time, she enjoys watching her (now) teens participate in the sports they love.

I am a dedicated educator, committed to the total development and well-being of each child in my classroom.

Lamisha is a registered Early Childhood Educator who originally hails from Dhaka, Bangladesh. She has many years of experience working with babies and children, ranging from 6 weeks to 5 years old. Her mission as a teacher is to help children discover the joy of learning, and to help each child develop a strong belief in their own ability to achieve. Lamisha strongly believes that children learn through play, helping them develop social and cognitive skills, mature emotionally and gain self-confidence. Lamisha can speak four different languages (Bangla, Hindi, Urdu, and English), and has travelled extensively abroad.

I am passionate about my work. Because I love what I do, I have a steady source of motivation that drives me to do my best. I feel delighted when I’m surrounded by kids.

Lina is one of TLC’s much-loved Supply Teachers. As a Registered Early Childhood Educator, she creates engaging and relevant play-based learning experiences based on children’s interests. She enjoys nurturing her students’ interests by providing inspirational materials found in the classroom or outdoors, and she makes a point of learning about each child’s individual needs to best support them in a warm and caring manner. In her spare time, Lina enjoys volunteering, and has been doing so for a variety of child-focused organizations since 2001.

I am dedicated to educating children in a supportive, inclusive, and nurturing environment.

Luz is an Early Childhood Assistant with a deep passion for working with young children. She is knowledgeable about child development, health and safety, nutrition, and so much more. As a role model for the children in her class, Luz makes sure that the learning environment she provides is one in which kids can feel safe and secure as they develop social skills, self-esteem, and a lifelong love of learning. Originally from the Philippines, Luz is the mother of two children who she very much enjoys spending her free time with.

Working with kids is fun! I have always loved being around kids, and I am delighted to have the opportunity to spend time with yours.

Margarett is one of TLC’s beloved supply teachers. Not only does she have children and grandchildren of her own, but she has been working in the childcare field for many years. In fact, when her little ones were growing up, she ran her own in-home daycare. Margarett enjoys getting to know the families and children at TLC, as well as providing comfort and support to the children in her care.

Helping children grow, thrive, and develop into their own person is a wonderful feeling.

Mary is a Registered Early Childhood Educator with a degree in Early Childhood Leadership. She has been working with children of all ages since 2016. She is passionate about providing a fun and safe environment for little ones to grow. Mary believes that learning should be an enjoyable, memorable, and even transformative experience. She is proud to be an educator, and is eager to guide students along their own learning path. In her free time, she enjoys arts & crafts and doing CrossFit.

It brings me so much joy to work with children! I love seeing them grow and learn about the world around them.

Melissa is a Registered Early Childhood Educator who has been working with young children since 2019. She provides a safe, nurturing environment for children, and creates her lesson plans based on children’s interests, developmental needs, and the TLC curriculum. She enjoys using music and movement, rock painting, and loose parts in her classrooms. During a 5-week field placement in Denmark, Melissa worked collaboratively with educators and children to understand the importance of physical activity and body awareness in the classroom.

I enjoy creating a responsive, inclusive environment that helps each child develop into the person they are going to become.

Melissa is a registered Early Childhood Assistant with a degree in Education and Development. A passionate and dedicated educator, she combines her years of experience, knowledge and creativity to help children achieve a positive educational experience. Melissa strongly believes that a child’s early years are the foundation to future success, and has participated in international conferences featuring topics like “first years of learning” and “child development.”

I love being a part of a little one’s fundamental years — where they are exploring and discovering the world, building their personalities, socializing, and learning new things every day.

Olga is a Kindergarten teacher that hails from Greece, worked as an educator in Australia, and now calls Toronto her home. While teaching in Australia, she enjoyed a brief stint bringing the Greek language and culture to little ones. As a member of the Welfare Newtown Community, she fulfilled her passion for cooking, creating meals for homeless people, and gaining new skills. Throughout her 12-year teaching journey, Olga learned that “children are our world,” and believes that surrounding them with love and care is an absolute necessity.

If you need a Greek recipe, you know where to find me!

Parmjit is an Early Childhood Educator who has been working with young children since 2015. Paramjit believes that every child has a unique way of seeing the world, and that children learn best through play (of course!). In her spare time, she enjoys baking, spending time with family and friends, and is always up for a new adventure.

I genuinely enjoy helping children learn. But just as much, I love learning from my students.

Rebecca is a Registered Early Childhood Educator who has worked with young children since 2009. She takes great pride in creating a welcoming and nurturing learning environment for her students, and is sure to encourage and support each child as a unique individual. Rebecca enjoys using her creativity to decorate her classroom, design lesson plans, and overcome challenging situations in the classroom. In her spare time, she enjoys hiking, camping and spending time with family, friends and her dog.

I love working with children of all ages, and truly appreciate being able to teach and care for them at the same time.

Reema is an Early Childhood Assistant who has worked with children ranging from preschoolers to elementary school students since 2014. Born and raised in India, Reema spent time working in Switzerland and the US before deciding to settle in Canada in 2019. She enjoys introducing children to various experiences to enhance their natural curiosity and help turn them into lifelong learners.

A mother to a preschooler myself, I believe my strongest assets are patience and a positive attitude.

Rhiannon is an Ontario Certified Teacher who has been teaching early elementary years (K-3) since 2018. Before moving to Toronto, she spent time teaching in both Nova Scotia and British Columbia. Having completed many professional development courses on mental health, trauma, and social and emotional learning, Rhiannon is passionate about building healthy relationships and creating safe and inclusive classrooms. She has enjoyed leading a variety of programs, including Red Cross Be Safe and Hope and Health Soccer. In her spare time, she enjoys snuggling her cats and listening to a good podcast.

I believe all learning is a process — and it’s a process that I’m proud to be part of here at TLC!

Originally from Mexico, Rose has worked as a Childcare Provider since 2014. She moved to Canada in 1998 where she has taken advantage of many volunteer opportunities over the years. Notably, she volunteered at Lamp Community Health Centre in the Ontario Early Years Centre Dropping Program, and later at her own children’s elementary school — within the classroom, on field trips, and as part of the Nutrition Snack program. Rose believes children deserve to feel loved, safe, nurtured and supported.

Children are precious and their minds are a blank canvas. I am happy to be able to add some colour to the painting.

Rupinder is a Registered Early Childhood Educator who strives to create a welcoming environment for children and their families. She takes the time to truly understand each of her students and prioritizes building positive relationships with all of them. When it comes to her teaching style, Rupinder is sure to put the children’s needs and interests first.

My number one goal is to make sure every child feels comfortable, safe, and loved.

Safia is an Early Childhood Educator with experience as Montessori teacher for ages 2-5. Her teaching philosophy is taking a child-centered approach, and is thoughtful when it comes to preparing a learning environment. She believes that young children learn more by playing an active role in their learning rather than by solely engaging in teacher-directed tasks. During her free time, she enjoys painting, yoga, swimming, travel, reading, and spending time in nature.

I find this to be such a rewarding career — not only are we shaping and assisting young children in their learning journey, but we are also developing personally and professionally through our interactions with them.

As the Office Administrator at TLC, Stephanie brings her cheery personality to parents, staff, and students. It’s Stephanie’s smiling face and friendly voice that greets you at the front desk, over the phone (and via email too!). She holds two University of Toronto degrees, in History and Geology, and refers to her wide range of interests – in reading, art, music, and dance – to find a way to relate with all who come through TLC’s doors. Stephanie previously worked as a Computer Programming Instructor, teaching children that ranged in age from 5 to 15. At home, Stephanie enjoys spending her time with her dog, cat, and two pet snakes.

I believe that empathy and compassion transcend age and words.

Summer is an Early Childhood Educator who came to Canada in 2018, where she studied Early Childhood Education. She is a compassionate, understanding, and empathetic teacher and individual. Along with her passion for crafts and DIY-ing, Summer feels strongly about promoting diversity in her classroom, and enjoys incorporating her culture into her daily lessons — by sharing Vietnamese fairy tales, celebrating the Lunar New Year, and even teaching little ones how to use chopsticks!

I’d rather make it better for children than make it easier for me.

Tanveer is an Early Childhood Educator who promotes physical, cognitive, emotional, and social development of each child in her classroom. Each day, she is busy overseeing and administering group learning activities, encouraging equal participation, and offering specialized attention when a child needs it. Originally from India, Tanveer is famous for her cooking, and is passionate about experiencing new things.

I may be an educator, but I’m also a lifelong learner. I truly enjoy gaining knowledge from new places and experiences.

Zinath is an Early Childhood Educator who has been working with children since 2008. As an experienced professional in the area of special-needs children, Zinath is able to address a diversity of needs and guide her students in a safe, positive learning environment. She enjoys ​​teaching creative expression through art, dramatic play, and music. In a previous role, Zinath was ​responsible for creating and implementing summer camp program activities, such as group field trips, as well as individual activities in science, math, and literacy. She is multilingual, and can speak English, Bengali, Hindi, and Urdu.

I like to encourage growth and self-esteem by teaching children about many different cultures in a diverse environment.

With over 20 years of experience, Lisa is one of our go-to supply teachers. She is passionate about children and families. Lisa is currently studying to become a Postpartum doula, as well as a Newborn Care Specialist in order to support families in their 4th trimester.