Abby Short
Newton Highlands
Summary
Bringing extensive childcare experience and expertise in nature-based education, fostering emotional growth through empathy and individualized care. Committed to supporting neurodivergent children while building trusting relationships with families through clear communication. Strives to create nurturing environments where both children and caregivers can thrive.
Overview
2027
2027
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
After-School Educator
NEDP
Needham
01.2026 - 06.2026
- Developed engaging lesson plans for after-school programs.
- Supervised student activities and ensured a safe environment..
- Implemented behavior management strategies for students, enhancing classroom engagement.
- Monitored student progress, providing constructive feedback to parents to support academic growth.
- Maintained accurate records of student attendance.
- Enforced rules of behavior and encouraged positive interactions among students.
- Identified individual needs of students and tailored instruction to foster learning and development.
Babysitter / Nanny
Boston-area families
2022 - 01.2026
- Delivered consistent part-time and occasional care for toddlers, preschoolers, and school-age children, including those with behavioral needs and neurodivergent profiles, ensuring each child's unique requirements were met.
- Fostered a supportive and engaging environment through age-appropriate activities, emotional reassurance, and personalized care strategies that promoted children's development.
- Build trusting relationships with families through clear communication about routines, behavior, and daily highlights.
- Organized and maintained a clean space while supporting healthy routines, including meal preparation, snack times, and bedtime rituals, enhancing overall family well-being.
Leadership Team Member
Awaken City Church
01.2022 - 10.2025
- Taught Sunday school classes and helped build community by supporting events.
- Enhanced communication, leadership, and teamwork skills through dedicated service and increased responsibilities.
- Assisted with Sunday school lessons and classroom activities, contributing to a positive and safe learning environment.
- Greeted families and facilitated morning setup, ensuring organized and welcoming services.
Youth Worker & Teaching Fellow
Boston Outdoor Preschool Network – Arnold Arboretum Site
- 10.2025
- Led outdoor, play based learning for children ages 3 to 8, supporting nature exploration, emotional regulation, and cooperative problem solving.
- Provided compassionate one on one support to struggling and neurodivergent children, adapting strategies to meet their sensory and emotional needs.
- Supervised children during hikes, transitions, and learning activities while maintaining safety and calm structure.
- Collaborated on lessons and modeled healthy communication for children and youth workers.
Art Workshop Leader
Paint Your Reality
- Taught foundational art techniques and encouraged creative expression tied to emotional well being.
- Increased engagement by leading hands on activities and encouraging participants to share ideas.
- Guided group workshops and created a welcoming, supportive environment where participants felt included and valued.
- Managed workshop setup and materials while maintaining a calm, organized learning space.
Playroom Staff
Dedham Health & Athletic Complex
- supervised groups of up to six children during activities, promoting safety and encouraging participation
- coordinated themed events, ensuring seamless execution and positive guest engagement
- greeted families, fostering a welcoming atmosphere that enhanced their experience
- Kept work areas clean, organized to promote safety for the children and their families.
Education
Liberal Arts & Sciences -
Bunker Hill Community College
Boston, MA08-2026
Highschool Equivalency -
GED
Massachusetts 01-2024
Skills
- EEC hours/experience toward teacher certification
- Strong understanding of child development and behavioral guidance
- Nature-based and outdoor education experience
- Positive behavior support and emotional coaching
- Reliable, punctual, and strong communicator
- Comfortable with pets
- Experience with meal prep, school pickups, and bedtime routines
- Coaching and mentoring
- Team player
- Activity coordination
Certification
CPR & First Aid Certified
Timeline
After-School Educator
NEDP
01.2026 - 06.2026
Leadership Team Member
Awaken City Church
01.2022 - 10.2025
Youth Worker & Teaching Fellow
Boston Outdoor Preschool Network – Arnold Arboretum Site
- 10.2025
Art Workshop Leader
Paint Your Reality
Playroom Staff
Dedham Health & Athletic Complex
Babysitter / Nanny
Boston-area families
2022 - 01.2026
Liberal Arts & Sciences -
Bunker Hill Community College
Highschool Equivalency -
GED