Ask an Expert: Gabby Sankar

Here at CBDistillery® we know that taking charge of your health and wellness is a daunting task and it's sometimes overwhelming to know whose recommendations to rely upon.

Transparency is key to our approach in every aspect of our business, which is why we wanted to introduce a series of conversations with CBDistillery® staff as well as other experts in their fields. We hope that these conversations will offer more information about our company and products and help foster trust in our products.

This time around, with summer vacation coming to an end and kids starting to return to school, I spoke with New York-based early childhood educator Gabby Sankar about how to ease the transition from long days of playtime to more structure and routine.

Adrian Crawford: First things first. Can you give me an idea of what being an early childhood paraprofessional and teacher’s assistant entails? 

Gabby Sankar. As an assistant teacher, I assist the lead teacher in various daily classroom tasks to alleviate their workload. As a paraprofessional, I am essentially a teacher’s assistant whose focus is to cater to a specific child that requires a higher level of supervision or assistance. 

AC: Next up, the origin story. What was it that started you on your journey to eventually end up working in early childhood education? 

GS: My mom became a teacher’s assistant at the preschool my younger brother attended. When I went to college, she suggested I work at that school during holiday and summer breaks. I ended up really enjoying the work and the kids, so after I graduated I began working as a TA full time. 

AC: What are some of the challenges teachers (and students!) face on the first few days back at school after a long summer vacation? 

GS: The first few days can be extremely hectic, for a multitude of reasons. Aside from the children themselves needing to become acclimated, teachers and administration also have a ton to figure out and organize in the days leading up to the first return day.  New students and parents can also be a bit challenging. To be honest, also having an entire summer off yourself and coming back can be a doozy too!  

AC: Were there any particular techniques you would employ in the classroom to help ease separation anxiety in young kids after drop-off? 

GS: Honestly, you have to make things as fun as possible. Lots of distraction and smiles, and affection. Some kids have a difficult time and it’s important to meet them where they’re at emotionally. 

AC:. What’s something that parents might not necessarily consider when it comes to their young child’s experience in a classroom environment? 

GS: I think they may sometimes have difficulty looking outside of their own child’s needs versus the needs of the collective classroom. Also, I'm not sure that some of them understand that we professionals are also a bit apprehensive about getting everything settled for the school year. 

AC: Last one. Can you share with us a tip that any parent can try or implement in their school-day routines that can help make the transition from summer vacation to school? 

GS: I think having a pretty solid sleep schedule can definitely make a difference. Starting a few days or a week prior to the start of school, having regular sleep, meal and nap routines would be my recommendation.