If you’re curious about our Early Childhood summer programs, check out this Q&A with Summer Session Co-Director, Leslie Azose about why she loves Early Childhood Education and SUMMER!
Why did you decide to focus your career in early childhood education?
I’ve only ever worked with children. From the time I was 13 and a classroom assistant in Sunday School, I knew this was what I wanted to do with my life. I gravitated toward early childhood in particular because children this age are so much fun to be around. I am inspired and challenged by what I learn from them every day in the classroom.
What is your favorite part of working with kids?
I love observing the children interact with each other. Young children are wonderfully kind, and also not afraid to tell it like it is – with their words and actions. I never need to worry about figuring out how the children feel about what is happening in the classroom. I appreciate the authenticity of childhood.
What are you looking forward to most about summer session?
Something magical happens when it’s summer in New York City. We are capturing that feeling and bringing it to camp with the programs, specialists, field trips and activities we have planned. I’m excited to experience summer in the city through the children.
What’s the best spot on the LES for kids?
Seward Park is a great place to meet up with friends and let your kids run around with their friends. Plus it’s next to the library and the beautiful garden that we’ll be visiting during the summer.
What do you do in your free time?
I have three young children, so we do a lot of things as a family. We are working our way through the museums in the city, and my oldest has challenged us to visit every park below Columbus Circle by the end of this year. I was quite surprised to learn that there are a lot of them!
