Hoppers Crossing local Debbie Macleod is a finalist in the 2025 Excellence in Family Day Care Awards.
Currently working with Wyndham Early Learning Family Day Care, Ms Macleod has worked with children and their families for 36 years.
“I had always wanted to be a kindergarten teacher, yet life took me on a different path,” she said.
“Although l had started a young family of my own, l still had a sense there was another purpose for me which is why l approached family day care to help fulfil my passion to educate young children.”
Ms Maceod said it was an honour to be named a finalist.
“To receive the recognition from my children’s parents and peers who have taken the time out to nominate you, writing kind words is a great feeling, one of appreciation and acknowledgment of what l do,” she said.
“What I enjoy about working in family day care the most is seeing the smiles on children’s faces when they have achieved a task that was not too long ago beyond their grasp. The fulfilment of achieving social skills or just the sheer enjoyment they have playing and learning in your care is so rewarding.”
Ms Macleod says she also enjoys the bond with the “hildren in my care whose friendships stayed well after care had finished where I have become an extended family member.”
“Knowing parents trust and respect you to be a part of the child’s life is also very rewarding. I am honoured to be a part of these children’s lives.”
