Ayse's Story: Helping Children Feel Safe, Seen, and Ready to Shine

When Ayse Mercan walks into her toddler classroom each morning, she knows some children may be facing one of the biggest changes of their young lives. For many, it's their first time separating from their parents, stepping into a new environment, and learning to build trust with new people. Helping children and families navigate that journey is one of the reasons Ayse loves her work as a Registered Early Childhood Educator (RECE) at Tansley YMCA Child Care Centre. 

"I love to see that transition," Ayse says. "Children start off nervous because they don't know us. Then, little by little, they begin to feel safe. They feel like they belong here." 

Ayse joined the YMCA nearly two years ago after raising her young family and realizing she was ready for a career change. 

"This is my second career," she says. "I wanted to do something meaningful, and I knew the YMCA would help me develop as an educator while making a difference for children and families." 

As an educator in the toddler room, Ayse plays an important role in helping children and families feel comfortable during those first few weeks in child care. 

“From the moment children and families enter the program, Ayse's warm smile and welcoming presence help create an environment where everyone feels valued, supported, and at home,” says Samantha Araujo, Centre Supervisor at Tansley YMCA Child Care Centre 

"When families leave their child with us, I want them to feel that their child is in good hands," Ayse explains. "When I see a child who was crying at drop-off run into the classroom and say goodbye to their parents with a smile, I know we've built that trust together." 

For Ayse, creating a sense of belonging starts with seeing each child as an individual. She takes time to learn about their interests, adapt activities to their needs, and helps them feel welcome in the classroom. 

One of her favourite parts of the job is watching quieter, more reserved children come out of their shells. 

"I've had children who would wait for an invitation to join activities or play with others," she says. "Then, over time, you see them become confident. They start engaging with their friends and participating on their own. Seeing that growth makes me so proud." 

Ayse believes that strong relationships are often built through the smallest moments. A reassuring smile. A calm presence. A look that tells a child they're safe. 

"Sometimes children understand our body language before our words," she says. "When they're nervous or unsure, I try to show them with my eyes that they're safe and supported. Those small connections help us build trust very quickly."  

Like all educators, Ayse encounters challenges. But she says knowing she is part of a supportive team helps her confidently navigate difficult situations. That sense of support and belonging is one of the things Ayse values most about working at the YMCA. 

"I feel like I belong to a good organization that helps communities and families," she says. "The YMCA is like a big family. I'm working here, my children have participated in YMCA programs, and I'm always learning and growing through training and support." 

For Ayse, working in child care is about much more than helping children through their daily routines. It's about creating spaces where children feel welcome, valued, and free to be themselves. It's about building confidence, one relationship at a time. 

Most of all, it's about purpose. 

"Helping families and making a difference in the community gives me meaning," she says. "That's what motivates me every day."

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