About us
At Little Heartprints Academy, our team is composed of highly skilled and reflective educators who see themselves as researchers, collaborators, and co-learners alongside children. Rather than following a prescribed curriculum, our teachers listen deeply to children’s ideas, observe with intention, and design meaningful learning experiences that open possibilities for exploration and growth. Their work is grounded in strong relationships, ongoing reflection, and a commitment to understanding each child as a capable and unique learner.
Our team also includes dedicated support staff who play an essential role in our community. From our cook, who nourishes children with nutritious food, to our pedagogical leader and director, who guide reflection and professional growth, every member contributes to creating a thoughtful, responsive, and inspiring environment for children and families.
“The strength of the team is each individual member. The strength of each member is the team.”
Our Team
Doreen Ng
This journey started when I was looking for a daycare for my first child and was unsatisfied with what was being offered for the price and quality of care. Being a teacher and a mom, I had certain expectations of what a daycare should offer. After talking to many parents, I found they struggled with the same problem and a lot of moms also had a hard time adjusting to the huge change of putting their baby into the care of others.
This inspired me to create Little Heartprints Academy, where I could continue my passion for teaching and help families feel comforted and excited to leave their child in a loving and thriving environment.
Early Childhood Specialist, Owner & Director-
BACKGROUND
I hold a Masters degree in Education with a minor in Applied Psychology. I have 20 years of experience working with children. Before starting my career as a teacher with the Calgary board of Education (CBE), I worked in daycares and volunteered in a variety of roles where I worked with young children.
During my 10 years with the CBE, I taught Kindergarten-Grade 6. I spent the majority of my career teaching Grades 1 and 2 which helped me to develop my skills in Early Childhood Education & Early literacy (helping students develop core skills in reading, writing, numeracy development, emotional regulation and interpersonal skills).
After having my first son, my fascination with the early developmental years grew. That is when I started learning more about Montessori practices to incorporate at home. It was amazing to see my son develop and learn so quickly in a short amount of time. With my knowledge and experience in Early childhood education and development, I felt like this was the natural next step in my career.
I am excited to meet all the amazing children that will touch my heart and leave a special heartprint!
Fabiola Barrios-Salas
My journey as an early childhood educator started in the fall of 2012 when I visited for the first time, the municipal schools of Reggio Emilia. During my first Study Group, I was deeply touched by the image of the child, reflected in the incredible pedagogical documentation that educators at Reggio Emilia shared with us, as well as the magical learning environments I experienced firsthand while visiting their schools. What I learned there became a new passion and professional career in my life. Reggio materialized some of my most important beliefs about education like the relevance of creativity, innovation, personalized learning multiple intelligences, art as a language for learning…
MEd, Program Leader and Pedagogista-
… and the value of an unscripted curriculum. In addition, I connected my art and interior design passion with the aesthetic learning environments and the role of the Atelier proposed by Reggio.
As an educator, I believe that learning is a natural process for all human beings. We are born with the capacity, eagerness, and curiosity to discover and make sense of our world. What I love about teaching in a Reggio Emilia-inspired program is that adults and children embark on a learning journey together where the focus is not on transferring knowledge but on co-constructing a learning path for life. Children are capable learners and citizens with the right to be listened to and participate in their learning process. Adults are part of the learning process by reflecting constantly on what, and how children learn, and they become co-learners and co-researchers together with the children.
BACKGROUND
I have more than 15 years of experience working in Early Childhood Education as a Director, professional development facilitator, learning coach, and preschool teacher. I have a Bachelor’s in Science Communication and a Master's in Education. Recently, I completed a Certificate in Early Childhood Education, and the training Exploring Early Childhood Curriculum: Flight Alberta´s Early Learning and Care Framework. Because I believe that learning is a lifelong principle, I am constantly taking courses, reading, and facilitating learning experiences for colleagues. Nowadays, I am pursuing a Visual Design Certificate, and I am a member of the Board of Directors of the Calgary Reggio Network Association.
Camilla Casallas
My passion for cooking starts since when I was a kid. I was always around of special woman that teach me the art of cooking and nurturing based in the local ingredients. When I was at the university, I had the opportunity to study anthropology and I found an interest the relation between "power and food" thought the history of the humans. I get deep in the the learning and understanding of the food practices, ingredients, cultures, ancestral knowledge and the actual power of the food in our social, political, economic relations.
Professional Chef-
My professional career as a chef started when one day my dad asked me for help in the family business (a very popular restaurant in my town). I felt the need to understand the professional way to run a food business so I decided to study something related. I won a scholarship to study Culinary Arts in Colombia and Argentina. Since then I have been working in the industry for more than 10 years in differents roles.In the past 5 years that I have been working in Canada. I had the opportunity to work as a manager in well-know restaurants and institutions in the city. However, as mom and wife it has been very difficult to find a balance with the restaurant demands so I decided to open new opportunities and now I am working in LHP. I am very grateful with this opportunity because I feel very fulfill in my personal and professional career. I loved share my knowledge in the cooking activities with the kids. I enjoyed cooking and bring new flavours, ingredients and experiences in every meal.
I truly believed that we are what we eat so I tried to cook as Healty and tasty as possible. I love cook with high quality and fresh-local ingredients.
BACKGROUND
I have more than 10 years of experience working in the food industry as a Cook, Chef and Manager. I have a Bachelor’s degree in Anthropology and a Technician Diploma in Culinary Arts. I had different courses and certifications in business management and food handling. I am pursuing start my professional education in Canada as well.
STAFF - MARDA LOOP LHP
Maiten Benavidez
MEd, Early Childhood Educator, Toddler TeacherMy name is Maiten, and I'm an ECE Level 3 educator currently pursuing my Master's degree in Early Childhood Education at the University of Denver.
I'm passionate about child-led learning, inspired by the Reggio Emilia approach, and I love creating spaces where children feel seen, heard, and empowered.
Originally from Argentina, I speak both English and Spanish. Outside of the classroom, I enjoy traveling, hiking, and spending time with my family—my husband and our fluffy dog, Sigmund.
Michelle Chong
I am a mom of a very lovely boy Julian. I found inspiration for cooking when my son was born and wanted to provide him with a well balanced diet.
Before moving to Calgary and starting my own family, home was then in a small town on a land very far away and very sunny on the other side of the globe. Being the only gal among 4 brothers, I assumed the role as my mom’s young apprentice and learned the ropes on how to maneuver around the kitchen.
I started as a Chef with Little Heartprints Academy and I have recently finished my Level 1 Childcare Certificate! I am now working in the toddler classroom to gain more skills to help young children grow, develop and thrive in this environment.
Early Childhood Educator, Toddler Teacher -
BACKGROUND
Graduating from college with Business Administration and Secretarial certifications, and with vast experiences in the administration sector throughout my career, I am thrilled and happy to move on to a different sector where I get to mingle and be surrounded by sweet little cuties throughout the day!
I recently finished my Level 1 Child care certification and I am excited to be working with your children!
Sofia Ceja
I arrived in Canada 7 years ago, seeking new adventures and with many dreams to fulfill. I am passionate about traveling and discovering new places; since I was young, I always felt that my home would be far from home. I embarked on this journey without knowing where it would lead me and found my destination in Calgary. Now, I am a mother to a 3-year-old girl and a stepmother to two beautiful children. Since arriving in Canada, I started working as a nanny, which turned out to be the perfect job. I loved spending time with the children, playing, going to the zoo, the park, museums, and many other places. Telling them stories, eating ice cream, going swimming, teaching them Spanish, cooking together – and the best part was getting paid for so much fun.
Early Childhood Educator, Preschool Teacher-
Since then, I knew I wanted to explore my career in the childcare field. My background as a psychologist has allowed me to have a different perspective on parenting and has helped me support each of my children in the way they need. After 6 years of being a nanny, of interacting and growing with extraordinary families, I decided it's time to take a step further in my career with children.
When my baby was 8 months old, I started working in a dayhome. I had a group of 6 children between 1.5 and 3 years old, always providing them with a lot of love and the best care.
I found Little Hearts Prints Academy in November 2023, where I am now starting as a preschool teacher. It brings me great joy to put all my love and knowledge into teaching these little ones.
BACKGROUNDI studied psychology for 5 years at the University of San Nicolas de Hidalgo in Mexico. After graduating, I began working as a Human Resources Analyst at a company called PC&B. There, my responsibilities included creating job profiles, recruiting and selecting candidates, conducting psychological tests, and seeking to find the ideal person for the right position. My team oversaw the proper development of each area of the company, and we developed new workshops to keep all personnel updated. After approximately a year and a half of working in this company, I decided to move to Canada.
In Calgary, I obtained my First Aid certification and attended a workshop called “Childhood Trauma: Finding a Way Through”. I have worked as a full-time nanny for three different families over the past six years. Recently, I obtained my Early Childhood Educator Level 1 certificate
Daniela Ortiz
Before coming to Canada, 3 years ago, I had the opportunity to live in different cities in my home country, Chile.
Born and raised in the beautiful coastal city of Viña del Mar, I moved to the capital, Santiago, in 1998, where I started working as an English teacher at a very prestigious British school in Santiago.
After 15 years living in Santiago, we moved to a city in the north of Chile, Antofagasta, in the middle of the Atacama Desert, where I lived for 6 years before returning to my hometown for 1 year, and then to Santiago for a year, from where we flew with my family to Calgary, to start a new life adventure in Canada.
Early Childhood Educator, Preschool Teacher -
Mother of 3 daughters aged 20, 18 and 15, I really enjoy the sea, rivers, lakes, and the sun. I take advantage of every moment of the summer, but I have also learned to value the beautiful moments that each season of the year brings us, especially winter because I love skiing.
With more than 25 years of experience in the field of education, I have had the opportunity to work with different age groups, so I am very excited about the opportunity I have to apply what I have learned and use my experience in the development of children from an early age.
Background
I am an ECE Level 1 in Alberta from 2022. I have a bachelor's degree in English Language and Literature from the Catholic University of Chile, and have specialized in the implementation of the Diploma, PYP and MYP programs of the International Baccalaureate (IB). Throughout my more than 20-year career, I have developed various roles in the field of education, as a teacher, room teacher, IB coordinator and vice principal.
I consider it very motivating to contribute to the development and early learning of children and to the introduction in learning a second language.
Jade Tupas
My name is Jade Tupas, and I am a student in the Early Childhood Education and Development program at Bow Valley College. I have always had a passion for working with children, and through my education I’ve been able to explore that passion more deeply. I’ve completed multiple practicums in different daycare settings, which has given me the chance to work with children of various ages and see firsthand how each child learns, grows, and develops in their own unique way. These experiences have strengthened not only my skills as an educator, but also my love for supporting children’s creativity, independence, and confidence.
Early Childhood Educator, Preschool Teacher-
I truly enjoy being part of a team that creates a caring and welcoming environment where children feel safe and excited to learn. For me, one of the most rewarding parts of this work is building connections with the children and watching them discover new things each day.
Looking ahead, my long-term goal is to continue my studies and pursue a Master’s degree in Occupational Therapy. My dream is to work closely with children and families to support development in creative, meaningful ways and to make a difference in their everyday lives. I am so grateful for the opportunity to be part of the Little Heartprints Academy community and to learn and grow alongside the amazing children here.
STAFF AT Richmond LHP
Shyanna WohlGemuth
For a part of my life I lived on a farm outside of a very small town with my four siblings, parents, grandparents and many animals. All I knew growing up was life in a small town, moving to
Calgary away from my family was a big and scary step but was a step that I needed to make. Although I love living in a small town I knew I needed a change. Once I got settled I was then able to bring my dog and cat to the city too.
From a very young age I knew I wanted to work with children, my small home town is where my journey in childcare all began. This led me to babysitting, as I grew older my passion grew too which then led me to working in childcare.
Early Childhood Educator, Toddler Teacher-
The beginning of working in childcare I knew instantly that this was my passion, it was something I wanted to continue to pursue. I strive to make it a safe, fun and caring environment for all the children to learn and grow. I am passionate about being a lifelong learner in which I can continue bettering myself for the children.
BACKGROUND
I have about six years working in childcare. I have my level one but plan on pursuing my level two and three. I've worked with infants, toddlers, preschoolers and have been an EA in a kindergarten classroom. When I first moved to Calgary I worked as a respite worker for a short time. I have my Montessori Early Childhood Assistant certificate and my Montessori Early Childhood Advanced Certificate.
Fatima Realegeno-Abbes
“Many years ago, a simple act of kindness opened my heart to a lifetime of purpose, and in the eyes of children, I found my true calling.” - F. R.
Hi! I am Fatima. I relocated to Calgary from Montreal with my husband in 2014, and since then, I have passionately worked as a preschool teacher in this city. I have been fortunate to witness the remarkable growth and development of young minds.
My motivation for relocating to a new city stems from a desire to contribute my early childhood education expertise while immersing myself in the local culture and professional landscape. I was eager to explore the opportunities available in this vibrant community, which is known for its stunning natural beauty and kindness.
Early Childhood Educator, Preschool Teacher-
The beginning of working in childcare I knew instantly that this was my passion, it was something I wanted to continue to pursue. I strive to make it a safe, fun and caring environment for all the children to learn and grow. I am passionate about being a lifelong learner in which I can continue bettering myself for the children.
BACKGROUND
I have about six years working in childcare. I have my level one but plan on pursuing my level two and three. I've worked with infants, toddlers, preschoolers and have been an EA in a kindergarten classroom. When I first moved to Calgary I worked as a respite worker for a short time. I have my Montessori Early Childhood Assistant certificate and my Montessori Early Childhood Advanced Certificate.
Laura Rodriguez-Florian
Hello, I’m Laura Rodríguez, a proud mom of two children, aged 10 and 5, a psychologist, nursing assistant, and early childhood educator from Bogotá, Colombia. Ever since I was an Au Pair in the United States at the age of 22, I knew that working with young children was my true calling. I spent a full year caring for two children, aged 2 and 4, and developed a deep connection with them. I took them to school, the park, swimming lessons, and came up with fun and educational activities for them. I also made sure to follow and reinforce the daily routines set by the parents with love and dedication, while also preparing healthy meals to ensure their well-being.
Early Childhood Educator, Preschool Teacher-
After having my own children, I realized that my true passion is being surrounded by children. Witnessing their development, curiosity, and ability to learn reaffirmed that this is the path I want to follow.
Last year, I started volunteering at Little Heart Prints, and now I am proud to be part of the team at the second location.
In my classroom, children will find a teacher who passionately reads stories, embodying each character, but they will also find someone who holds their hand during nap time, makes snow and mud cupcakes with them, and, above all, runs through the grass with them, listening to their laughter and sharing in the joy of their play.
My mission is to work as a team with my colleagues to ensure that every day at Little Heart Prints is an unforgettable adventure for your children, where they can learn, have fun, and always feel safe and loved. It will be a pleasure to accompany them on this beautiful journey of growth!
Background
I am a psychologist, nursing assistant, and early childhood educator, with a strong background in child care and development. I currently hold Level 1 in Early Childhood Education (ECE) and am looking forward to continuing my education with Levels 2 and 3. Additionally, I am certified in first aid and food safety, both certifications obtained here in Calgary.
I am always looking for new opportunities to learn and stay updated on early childhood education topics. Whether through reading articles, attending courses, or participating in workshops, my goal is to provide the best care and education possible to the children. My commitment to their well-being and development is ongoing because I believe that every moment with them is an opportunity to grow together.
Kyara Salmon
I’ve always loved learning and exploring the world around me, and that same curiosity and love for learning is what I hope to be able to inspire in each of the children I teach. To me, every child is capable, intelligent, and unique. I believe, as Plutarch once said, that “a child’s mind is not a vessel to be filled, but a fire to be kindled.”
I’m passionate about creating environments that are guided by each child’s interests in spaces where they can freely explore, grow, and reach their full potential.
Early Childhood Educator, Toddler Teacher-
Building genuine connections with each child is really important to me so that they feel loved, safe, confident, and ready to learn and explore their environment. Getting to know each child helps me to create unique learning environments that reflect their interests and meet them where they are at developmentally. I believe this truly allows each child to thrive. I love that I get to be part of this beautiful journey during each child’s early years!
In my free time, I love spending time with my wonderful husband and beautiful daughter. We love being outdoors! In the summer, we enjoy fun adventures as a family, such as hiking, camping, going to the lake, the zoo, finding new parks, going for picnics, and going on walks. In the winter, we enjoy going cross-country skiing and downhill skiing.
Background
I hold a diploma in Early Childhood Education and have worked in a variety of roles, including supporting children in a women’s emergency shelter, providing respite care, and working as a nanny. I have absolutely loved each of these roles. I’ve also had the opportunity to travel to countries such as Brazil, Zambia, Malawi, and Tanzania, where I have volunteered in various roles. In one of these roles, I was volunteering in an orphanage where I got to teach at the school there. It made my love for teaching and learning alongside children grow even more!
I consider myself to be a lifelong learner and I am always looking for ways to expand my knowledge and skills so that I can continue to grow and be the best educator that I can be for the children that I work with.
Bernice Cheung
I am an early childhood educator based in Calgary, deeply inspired by the Montessori philosophy and committed to creating learning environments where children are respected as capable, curious, and self-motivated individuals. My journey as an educator began more than 15 years ago and has taken me through a wide range of roles across Canada and Hong Kong, including Preschool and Elementary Teacher, Lead Montessori Guide, School Inspector and School Counsellor. Each of these experiences has strengthened my belief that education is not about transferring knowledge but about nurturing the natural potential of every child through curiosity, independence, and discovery.
Early Childhood Educator, Preschool Teacher-
My passion for early learning was deeply shaped by my first encounter with Montessori education. The philosophy’s emphasis on following the child, fostering intrinsic motivation, and cultivating independence resonated strongly with my beliefs about how young children learn best. Montessori’s focus on hands-on exploration, freedom within structure, and respect for each child’s developmental rhythm continues to influence my teaching practice and the way I view children’s role as active participants in their own learning.
Background
I hold an Interim Alberta Professional Teaching Certificate and a Level 3 Early Childhood Educator Certification. Academically, I completed a Bachelor of Social Science in Counselling and Psychology, postgraduate diplomas in education, certificate in Montessori as well as special education. My background in psychology provides a strong foundation for supporting children’s emotional regulation and overall well-being. I believe that social-emotional development is the cornerstone of learning, and I intentionally create safe, nurturing spaces where children can recognize, express, and manage their emotions. Through modeling empathy, mindfulness, and reflective practices, I guide children in developing resilience, emotional intelligence, and positive relationships with others.
As an educator, I strive to cultivate joy, confidence, and a love of learning in every child. I see teaching as a shared journey—one of mutual growth, discovery, and reflection—where adults and children learn from one another every day. Education, to me, is not a fixed destination but a living process of exploration and connection. It is a privilege to walk alongside children and families on this journey, witnessing their wonder, growth, and unfolding potential.
Mabel Choy
Hi, I’m Mabel, and I’m delighted to be part of the Little Heartprints Academy team. I graduated from Seneca College with a diploma in Early Childhood Education, where I built a strong foundation in child development and child-centered learning approaches that support curiosity, creativity, and independence.
After completing my studies, I returned to Hong Kong to build my family and am a proud mother of a young adult daughter. During my time in Hong Kong, I worked as a kindergarten English teacher and later supported Grade 5 and Grade 6 students in preparing for secondary school interviews. These experiences allowed me to work with children at different developmental stages and helped me develop patience, adaptability, and a deeper understanding of each child’s unique needs.
Early Childhood Educator, Preschool Teacher-
In 2022, I returned to Calgary and continued pursuing my passion for early childhood education. I have worked as a Lead Teacher in different daycare settings, where I gained valuable experience with different teaching approaches, classroom environments, and ways to support children’s growth and development. These opportunities have helped shape me into a more well-rounded and versatile educator.
I am passionate about creating meaningful learning experiences through hands-on exploration, outdoor learning, sensory activities, and creative experiences that encourage children to explore the world around them with confidence.
I believe in building strong relationships with children and families while creating a warm, safe, and nurturing environment where every child feels valued, supported, and loved. Watching children grow, gain confidence, and reach new milestones is one of the most rewarding parts of being an educator.