From Finance to Preschool: How Play School Journal Began

🌿 How Play School Journal Began – My Journey as an Early Years Educator

Life does not always move in a straight line — and mine certainly didn’t.

My academic background was in finance, and my early professional path was aligned with that field. However, after becoming a mother, I found myself rethinking my priorities. I wanted a career that not only fulfilled me professionally but also aligned with my family life and my growing understanding of childhood.

That turning point led me to pursue a Postgraduate qualification in Early Years Care and Education and Nursery Teacher Training (NTT). What began as a practical decision soon became a true passion.

Soon after, I stepped into the role of Centre Head at a reputed preschool, where I continue to serve today — two years strong and still learning every day.

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🌱 Lessons Beyond the Classroom

In my role, I have worked closely with:

• Parents navigating their child’s first school experience

• Teachers adapting to early years methodologies

• Counselors supporting emotional transitions

• Co-owners balancing administration and child development

I witnessed firsthand how crucial awareness is in early childhood education — especially during:

• School transition phases

• Separation anxiety

• Social adjustment

• Emotional regulation

• Parent-teacher communication

I realized that handling young children is not just about academics. It is about understanding their emotions, development stages, and individual needs.

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🌸 Why I Started Play School Journal

Through daily interactions, meetings, and classroom observations, I saw a common need — clarity.

Parents often seek reassurance.
Teachers look for structured guidance.
Schools need developmentally appropriate strategies.

I felt the need to document my thoughts, reflections, and practical experiences — not just for myself, but for others navigating the same journey.

That is how Play School Journal was born.

This blog is a space where I share:

• Theme-based learning ideas

• Early years pedagogy insights

• Fine and gross motor development strategies

• Observation and portfolio formats

• PTM guidance

• Classroom management reflections

• Real experiences from preschool leadership

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💛 A Journey That Continues

Moving from finance to early childhood education was not just a career change — it was a transformation in perspective.

Today, I believe that early education shapes not just academic readiness but confidence, resilience, and emotional security.

Through Play School Journal, I hope to contribute to a more aware, sensitive, and structured approach to preschool education.

This is my journey — and it is still unfolding.

✨ With love,
Akshayaa Aravindan
Early Years Educator & Centre Head
Play School Journal