As a mother of four, Abeer Hamoda brings both professional expertise and personal understanding to her role as a child care assistant at Mississippi State University's Child Development and Family Studies Center. She recognizes that the early years of childhood serve as the foundation for all future learning and development.

"I feel honored to play a role in shaping the foundation of their future learning," said Hamoda, who has dedicated five years to caring for infants and toddlers

What makes Hamoda's position particularly rewarding is the unique opportunity to witness children's complete early development journey. Because the center serves children from infancy through pre-kindergarten, she’s able to see the babies she once cared for grow into confident, curious preschoolers.

"Watching a previously very timid child now walk down the hallway and greet me with the biggest smile is something I will never forget," Hamoda said. "These children come back to visit me even after they've moved up to other classrooms, and I love seeing how they've grown over the years."

For Hamoda, being a childcare assistant extends far beyond ensuring children are comfortable and safe—she focuses on fostering each child's individual growth and potential from their earliest days.

"Fostering an environment to help children grow is a priority for me," Hamoda said.

Her approach centers on creating developmentally appropriate activities that support cognitive, physical, emotional, and social development. Understanding that no two children are alike, she goes beyond standard planning to work closely with families, tailoring care to meet each infant's unique needs.

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"It is incredibly rewarding to see a child's first smile, step, or word, and I am grateful to be a part of those moments," she said.

This dual perspective as both educator and parent enriches Hamoda's work, allowing her to create meaningful connections with the children and families she serves. When she's not at the center, Hamoda enjoys time with her family, reading, gardening and cooking.