Barbara De Bernardi
GLENVIEW,IL
Summary
Dynamic Early Childhood Bilingual Educator with expertise in play-based, Nature learning and Language Immersion Programs. Strong advocate for the child-centered Reggio Emilia methodology. Committed to fostering cultural awareness and creating inclusive environments that enhance children's growth and development. Proficient in multi-sensory storytelling techniques, utilizing books, puppets, felt boards, Japanese Kamishibai, and interactive music.
Overview
5
5
Languages
1
1
Certification
15
15
years of professional experience
Work History
Early Childhood Educator
Glenview Methodist Preschool
Glenview, IL
08.2023 - Current
- Organized and facilitated engaging activities that promoted physical, emotional, and intellectual growth in children. Grounded in Nature and inspired by the Reggio Emilia Approach.
- Maintained and fostered positive and constructive interactions with staff, families, and children.
- Established ongoing professional development goals, participating in workshops and conferences to stay current on emerging trends in early childhood education.
- Adapted teaching methods and materials to meet diverse needs of children, ensuring inclusive learning experience.
- Created and implemented children's Cultural Awareness programs to enhance children's understanding of cultural diversity.
- Conducted regular parent-teacher conferences to discuss children's progress and address any concerns, strengthening family-school communication.
- Cultivated a safe and inclusive classroom environment that fostered respect, empathy, and cultural awareness among students.
- Fostered creativity in the classroom through art projects, dramatic play, storytelling exercises, and other imaginative pursuits. The Kamishibai Storytelling Technique was introduced to increase students' vocabulary and comprehension abilities.
- Provided emotional support and guidance to children, fostering sense of security and belonging.
- Utilized creative arts to enhance children's expressive abilities and creativity.
Italian School Director and Lead Teacher
Insieme a Chicago, LLC
Glenview, IL
01.2012 - Current
- Developed and implemented full immersion and play-based educational programs to enhance student achievement and engagement.
- Oversaw budget management, allocating resources effectively to meet school needs and priorities.
- Trained teachers on effective teaching techniques, classroom management strategies, and behavior modification.
- Communicated with parents to encourage active parental participation in education.
- Developed and coordinated after-school programs and activities.
- Developed and implemented Storytimes, Cultural Events, Online Classes and In Person Private lessons.
Education
Master of Arts - Linguistics
Northeastern Illinois University
Chicago, IL07.2010
Bachelor of Arts - English And German Studies
Università Cattolica Del Sacro Cuore
Milano, Italy04.2003
High School Diploma -
Liceo Linguistico "L. Perpenti"
Sondrio, Italy07.1997
Skills
- Play-based, Nature and Reggio Emilia Approach learning
- Lesson and Curriculum planning
- Classroom organization
- Dramatic play
- Storytelling techniques, certified Kamishibai Storyteller
- Children's literature
- Music appreciation
- Team collaboration
- Adaptability and flexibility
- Problem-solving
- Classroom management
- Relationship building
Languages
English
Native or Bilingual
Spanish
Limited Working
French
Full Professional
German
Professional Working
Italian
Native or Bilingual
Accomplishments
- Author of “Le fiabe di Roberto Piumini insegnano a parlare italiano,” published in Italica in 2019.
- Author of: "See and Say Italian:" published by Capstone in 2026.
- Achieved grade A (3 credit hours) by completing "Child Growth and Development" at Oakton College, in 2024.
- Collaborated with the Youth Community Engagement Team at the Glenview Public Library in the development of "Family Adventure", a cultural awareness program offered once a season.
Certification
- Kamishibai Didattico Training - 2023
- Mandated Reporter -2023
- Basic First Aid - 2025
Timeline
Early Childhood Educator
Glenview Methodist Preschool
08.2023 - Current
Italian School Director and Lead Teacher
Insieme a Chicago, LLC
01.2012 - Current
Master of Arts - Linguistics
Northeastern Illinois University
Bachelor of Arts - English And German Studies
Università Cattolica Del Sacro Cuore
High School Diploma -
Liceo Linguistico "L. Perpenti"