Growing with Purpose: Rachel McLaughlin’s Journey in Early Childhood Education at the YMCA

Sixteen years ago, Rachel McLaughlin found herself doing what she loved most - caring for tiny humans. What she didn’t know then was that her first job working in child care would become the beginning of a lifelong career grounded in purpose, community, and deep connection.

“I started out chasing tiny humans just out of high school,” Rachel says with a laugh. “The YMCA came into my life offering purpose and a place where my passion could grow wings.”

Rachel’s first role was as an educator in a lively 4-year-old room, a space full of giggles, energy, and the occasional suspicious silence that signaled someone was finger-painting a wall. But even in those early days, something felt right. She had found a place where she could make a difference, where she belonged, and where she felt deeply connected to the families she supported.

Throughout the years, Rachel’s natural ability to connect with children grew into something bigger. She began mentoring other educators, discovering not just her love of teaching children but her passion for helping adults grow, too. Eventually, she stepped into the role of Supervisor of the YMCA of Southwestern New Brunswick’s Quispamsis Child Care location – just next door to the Shannex, offering intergenerational programming and development.

“It’s been a wild ride of growth, learning, and discovery,” she says. “But I wouldn’t trade a moment.”

One of the most defining influences in Rachel’s career was her mentor, Trinda DeMont. Rachel worked with Trinda at the Y’s Early Learning Hub in the South End of Saint John. She describes Trinda’s leadership as a blueprint for what compassionate, hands-on, heart-forward leadership looks like.

According to Rachel, Trinda listened deeply, trusted fully, and believed in Rachel long before Rachel believed in herself.

“She taught me that leadership is about listening and trust,” Rachel recalls. “I always felt heard by her. That’s the kind of leader I try to be today.”

On a crisp fall November day, Rachel’s leadership style shines through as she interacts with the team in Quispamsis - calm, supportive, grounded in empathy, and always willing to step in where she’s needed.

For Rachel, the joy of early childhood education has always been found in the small moments. The tiny high-fives, “I did it!” victories, and the curiosity of young children. But there is one that moment stands above all others.

She remembers a new parent nervously handing her a baby for the first time. With soft words and steady arms, Rachel helped the child settle almost instantly. Watching the parent’s shoulders relax, seeing the relief in their eyes, that was the moment she knew she wasn’t just caring for children. She was supporting whole families.

“My role isn’t just about caring for children,” she says. “It’s about creating a space where families feel safe, supported, and understood.”

Why the Y is Different

To Rachel, working with the YMCA child care team is unique because it is heart-led and community-rooted. She explained how her work is not just about ABC's; it's about empathy, belonging, confidence, and joy.

“It’s about celebrating diversity and helping every child feel seen,” she says.

The Y has shaped her approach by giving her opportunities, mentorships, workshops, and constant encouragement.

The impact of a child care career, Rachel says, is immeasurable. You plant seeds and get a front-row seat as children grow. You help parents feel confident on their hardest days. You watch families flourish.

“Sometimes you even get called “Mom” by accident,” she laughed. “Which is proof of the deep trust and connection built along the way.”

Sixteen years later, it’s still the children who inspire her. Their joy, their resilience, their stories. Every day brings new discoveries and new chances to make a difference.

“To someone considering child care,” she says, “I’d tell them - it’s messy, magical, and deeply meaningful. If you love laughter and don’t mind glitter in your hair, this could be your place.”

And to those just starting their career? Rachel's advice is to ask questions, be curious and to say yes to opportunities.

“Every child you meet is a chance to make a difference.”