Claire McDonald

Compassionate Psychology graduate with 4+ years of experience in varied childcare settings, specializing in developmentally appropriate engagement for children ages 1–12. Proven ability to support children's needs through play, active listening, and relationship management. Committed to providing family-centered care and maintaining rigorous safety and sanitization standards in child friendly spaces.

Support Staff (Float) at Kirkland Children's School (2024-09 – Present)

Plan and lead developmentally appropriate activities in a variety of classrooms with children aged 1-12. Recognize when there is an issue and work with the lead teacher or other staff when additional support is needed.

• Plan and lead developmentally appropriate activities in a variety of classrooms with children aged 1-12. Interact one on one with the children during the activities
• Recognize when there is an issue and work with the lead teacher or other staff when additional support is needed
• Facilitate conflict resolution during disagreements between children using redirection and active listening
• Support teachers in different classes throughout the day
• Demonstrate leadership and flexibility by seamlessly assuming lead responsibilities, ensuring continuity of care and routine for children
• Maintain infection control standards through meticulous sanitization of toys and communal play areas to ensure a safe environment for all children

Kids Counselor at YMCA (2019-05 – 2021-08)

Led kids into group activities throughout the day. Utilized positive redirection and active listening to facilitate conflict resolution, promoting a supportive and emotionally safe environment.

• Led kids into group activities throughout the day
• Utilized positive redirection and active listening to facilitate conflict resolution, promoting a supportive and emotionally safe environment
• Helped check in and out kids when asked to do so
• Fostered an approachable and trusting environment, encouraging children to express needs and seek guidance

Sales Associate at Petco (2018-07 – 2018-09)

Greeted guests as they entered the store. Provided quick and courteous service to guests and their pets.

• Greeted guests as they entered the store
• Provided quick and courteous service to guests and their pets
• Shared product knowledge and suggested appropriated merchandise and services
• Answered the phone professionally and courteously to provide information regarding products and services
• Cared for store animals by feeding and cleaning cages

Server at Bellewood – A LifeMinded Residence (2017-07 – 2017-09)

Greeted residents upon arrival in dining room. Took residents' orders in a timely manner and relayed orders to the kitchen.

• Greeted residents upon arrival in dining room
• Took residents' orders in a timely manner
• Relayed orders to the kitchen and served courses
• Cleared tables between courses
• Delivered prompt and courteous service

Summer Camp Intern at Seattle Children's Theater (2017-06 – 2017-06)

Served as a role model for campers. Participated enthusiastically in camp activities and assumed responsibility for campers' safety.

• Served as a role model for campers
• Participated enthusiastically in camp activities
• Assumed responsibility for campers' safety
• Showed a genuine interest in all campers

BS in Psychology – University of Idaho (2021-08 – 2023-12)

– Bellevue College (2017-05 – 2021-07)

– Lynn University (2017-05)

High School Diploma – Eastlake High School (2016-06)