Kia Funches
Chicago,IL
Summary
Dedicated early childhood education professional with a strong understanding of child development, developmentally appropriate curriculum planning, and play-based learning. Skilled in creating nurturing, inclusive, and engaging classroom environments that support children's cognitive, social, emotional, and physical development. Demonstrates strong classroom management, parent communication, leadership, and organizational skills. Committed to fostering a positive learning experience while supporting each child's individual needs and developmental milestones.
Overview
1
1
Language
1
1
Certification
9
9
years of professional experience
Work History
Youth Development Lead Instructor
YMCA
Chicago, IL
06.2022 - 02.2024
- Delivered engaging instruction aligned with curriculum standards and learning objectives.
- Developed lesson plans, activities, and assessments to support varied learning needs.
- Facilitated classroom discussions and hands on learning to reinforce core concepts.
- Initiated new learning methods, eliminating instructional gaps and improving comprehension.
Daycare Teacher's Assistant
Playhouse Daycare Center
Olympia Fields, IL
12.2017 - 03.2020
- Assisted with meal, snack, and cleanup routines while maintaining sanitary spaces.
- Collaborated with lead teacher to develop curriculum tailored to meet the unique needs of each student.
- Supported lead teachers during classroom activities, transitions, and supervised play.
- Prepared learning materials, organized supplies, and maintained engaging activity areas.
After School Teacher
BASE Childcare
Olympia Fields, IL
08.2016 - 07.2017
- Designed and prepared daily educational activities to promote active learning and skill development.
- Provided individualized guidance to support homework completion and reinforce classroom concepts, enhancing student understanding.
- Supervised students during after school activities, maintaining safe and structured a safe and structured learning environment.
- Assisted with homework support, reinforcing classroom concepts and study habits.
- Planned engaging recreational activities aligned with age specific interests and development.
- Prepared snacks and organized daily transitions to keep routines running smoothly.
Early Childhood Teacher Assistant
University for Kids Learning Center
Matteson, IL
11.2014 - 08.2016
- Developed curriculum for up to 20 children
- Supported lead teachers with classroom activities, transitions, and daily learning routines.
- Prepared instructional materials, toys, and supplies for age-appropriate lessons and center activities.
- Applied play-based strategies to provide diverse approaches to learning.
- Participated in ongoing professional development opportunities to stay current on best practices within early childhood education.
Education
Associate of Arts - Early Childhood Education
Prairie State College
Chicago Heights05-2026
Bachelor of Arts - Early Childhood Education
Governors State University
Normal, Illinois05-2028
Skills
- Child development strategies
- Curriculum development
- Classroom organization
- Parent engagement
- Instructional strategies
- Play-based strategies
- Lesson development
- Behavioral guidance
Certification
- Gateways to Opportunities credentials
- First Aid and CPR - American Red Cross
Languages
Spanish
Beginner (A1)
Timeline
Youth Development Lead Instructor
YMCA
06.2022 - 02.2024
Daycare Teacher's Assistant
Playhouse Daycare Center
12.2017 - 03.2020
After School Teacher
BASE Childcare
08.2016 - 07.2017
Early Childhood Teacher Assistant
University for Kids Learning Center
11.2014 - 08.2016
Bachelor of Arts - Early Childhood Education
Governors State University
Associate of Arts - Early Childhood Education
Prairie State College