Cynthia Sheaks-McGowan

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As an undergraduate psychology intern working with an art therapist, I became fascinated by children and their expressive capabilities. Paint, crayons, and clay were keys to unlocking the inner world of the young child and my own curiosity about children's development. This experience led me to pursue my master's degree in Child Development and Education at Mills College, where I worked for two years in their Children's School. Since that time, my professional work with children, families, and caregivers has convinced me that the early years of life, particularly those from birth to age three, are the most crucial years in a child's development. Sadly, the significance of these years is often overlooked by the general public.

My professional interests focus on the provision of high quality child development services to children and families. Within this general topic, I have three major areas of interest: programs that support infant-toddler development, the preprimary programs of Reggio Emilia, Italy, and professional development strategies for adult learners. I am able to integrate these three interests in my work as a trainer for WestEd's Program for Infant/Toddler Caregivers Partners for Quality. In this role, I provide on-site training and technical assistance to local infant-toddler programs.

I have worked for the Ventura County Community College District since 1995. Currently, I teach Child Development courses for Oxnard College, Ventura College, and California State University, Northridge. I believe that real-life experience working with children has been one of my greatest "teachers," and try to incorporate this philosophy into all of my courses. Just take a few minutes to watch a child closely, and you will learn something new -- about the child or about yourself!