Hi! I’m Bianca.
Welcome to my ePortfolio! As a Certified Youth Care Practitioner, I am passionate about showcasing my professional experiences and skills. This platform serves as a reflection of my academic and field placement and employment experiences, aiming to communicate my dedication to youth care. Feel free to explore and learn more about my journey.
Land Acknowledgement
I want to take a moment to acknowledge that I live, work, and study on the traditional lands of Indigenous peoples. This includes the Mississaugas of the Credit, the Anishnabeg, the Chippewa, the Haudenosaunee, and the Wendat nations. Today, this land—known as Toronto—is home to many diverse First Nations, Inuit, and Métis communities. It is covered by Treaty 13 with the Mississaugas of the Credit and is part of the Dish With One Spoon Wampum Belt, a shared agreement that highlights the importance of working together and caring for the land and each other.
As someone studying and working in the field of child and youth care, I recognize the importance of truth, reconciliation, and healing—especially when it comes to the experiences of Indigenous children, youth, and families who have been impacted by colonial systems, including child welfare. I acknowledge the strength, resilience, and ongoing contributions of Indigenous communities and commit to continuing my learning, listening with humility, and supporting Indigenous voices in meaningful ways.
About Me
Hi, I’m Bianca! I recently completed my Child and Youth Care program and will soon be beginning my journey toward a Bachelor of Social Work. My passion for supporting children, youth, and families continues to grow, and I’m excited to build on the skills I’ve developed as I take the next step in my education and career.
Outside of school and work, I love getting creative and staying active. I enjoy colouring pages as a relaxing outlet, working on cars, and driving at the track—it’s a thrill that keeps me focused and energized. I also have a deep love for travel and adventure, and I’m always looking for new places to explore.
Most importantly, I share my days with my fur baby, Leo Bear, who fills my life with joy and cuddles.
I’m proud of how far I’ve come and look forward to the journey ahead—both personally and professionally.
My Philosophy
As a Child and Youth Care Practitioner, I am deeply committed to fostering an environment where children and youth feel truly understood, valued, and supported. My goal is to create a safe, non-judgmental space that encourages them to express themselves freely and authentically.
I believe it is essential to provide an environment that not only nurtures their sense of security and belonging but also inspires their creativity and personal growth. It is a privilege to hold this space for them, empowering them to thrive and reach their full potential.
Elevator Pitch
Here is my elevator pitch video, where I share a little about who I am, my experience, and my passion for working with children, youth, and families.
Professional Expierence
I intentionally tailored my professional experience to highlight my work with children and youth.
Child and Youth Care Practitioner
Cedar Heights Residential Living – Stouffville, ON
Jan 2024 – July 2024
Supported children and youth with brain-based disabilities, including Autism.
Implemented alternative communication methods and structured activities.
Documented behavioural patterns to inform care plans.
Collaborated with interdisciplinary teams to ensure holistic support.
Program Coordinator
Reflections Gang Culture Program – Scarborough, ON
Jan 2023 – Apr 2023
Partnered with the Mil Reflections Gang Culture Program to support youth impacted by gang involvement.
Completed training at CAMH on mental health and addiction support.
Facilitated the "Reflections Gang Culture Program" to engage and empower youth.
Developed and delivered therapeutic activities and presentations tailored to youth needs.
Overnight Camp Counsellor
Camp Adventureland – Stouffville, ON
Jul 2019 – Sept 2019
Led a day camp for youth ages 4 to 13, ensuring a fun and safe environment.
Developed educational lesson plans focused on safety, team-building, and confidence.
Organized and facilitated camp activities, including swimming, soccer, arts and crafts, and more.
Supervised and ensured the safety of large groups of youth throughout camp activities.
Relief Worker
Toronto Catholic Children's Aid Society – Toronto, ON
Aug 2024 – Present
Supervise foster children in the absence of foster parents.
Ensure the safety and well-being of children during daily activities.
Provide emotional support and guidance to foster children.
Document daily activities and report any concerns to the caseworker.
Childcare Giver
Private Organization – Markham, ON
Apr 2021 – July 2024
Provided care and ensured the safety of a 5-year-old child with ADHD.
Assisted with schoolwork, cooking, and cleaning.
Developed and implemented age-appropriate educational activities.
Organized and led outings to the park and library.
Student Teacher
TDSB - Saint Marguerite Bourgeoys Catholic Elementary School – Scarborough, ON
Feb 2021 – Apr 2021
Worked with students ages 8 to 13 with accommodation needs.
Assisted in creating lesson plans for students with varying cognitive abilities.
Supervised and ensured the safety of large groups of students.
Delivered lessons to promote learning, skill-building, and confidence.
Provided support with assignments and individualized instruction as needed.
Early Childhood Educator Assistant
Early Blooms Montessori Daycare School – Markham, ON
Apr 2022 – Sept 2022
Supervised children aged 1-2 in the pre-CASA classroom.
Assisted ECE in planning and implementing daily activities and lesson plans.
Observed and documented children's progress through play-based learning.
Provided individual instruction and adapted teaching methods to meet diverse needs.
Early Childhood Educator Assistant
YMCA of Greater Toronto – Markham, ON
Jun 2017 – Sept 2018
Supervised children aged 2 to 4 during daily routines and activities.
Led children through playtime, mealtimes, and other scheduled activities.
Fostered a compassionate and patient environment for children’s growth.
Supported children’s development with age-appropriate guidance and care.
Early Childhood Educator Assistant
All About Kids – Markham, ON
May 2023 – Present
Assisted lead educators with planning and implementing daily activities.
Supervised children to ensure safety during play and meals.
Supported children’s development through engaging, age-appropriate activities.
Communicated with parents about progress and milestones.
Centennial College - Child & Youth Care Field Placement Experience
Cedar Heights Residential Living
Stouffville, ON
Jan 2024 – Apr 2024
During my first-year field placement at Cedar Heights Residential Living, I had the opportunity to support children and youth with brain-based disabilities, including Autism, in a group home setting. I worked closely with staff to create and implement individualized care plans and assisted with daily activities that promoted skill development and social engagement. I also had the chance to observe and document behavioural patterns, using this information to adapt communication strategies like picture exchange systems and visual supports. The experience allowed me to refine my documentation skills and collaborate with an interdisciplinary team to ensure holistic, person-centered care for the residents. This placement deepened my understanding of the challenges faced by children and youth with disabilities and reinforced my passion for providing a safe, supportive space for their growth and development.
Durham Children's Aid Society
Oshawa, ON
Sept 2024 – Apr 2025
During my third-year field placement, I attend and document meetings, upload contact logs in CPIN, and complete forms such as passport applications and Serious Occurrence reports. I supervise access visits between youth and their biological families, de-escalate conflicts, and support reunification efforts. I also conduct social histories, collaborate with foster families, and witnessed the finalization of three adoptions. My work applies trauma-informed care, maintains professional boundaries, and contributes to program planning, including finalizing a Life Book and preparing for the Life Skills program. I focus on adaptability, strong documentation, and a proactive approach to learning, recommending therapeutic resources like a DBT workbook. I manage emotional challenges through self-care and feedback from my supervisor, using the Field Manual to guide my practice and continually improve.
Activities
Financial Literacy Course
I facilitated a financial literacy course as part of the Life Skills Program at Durham Children’s Aid Society for youth in care. The course focused on budgeting, saving, spending habits, and financial goal setting, empowering participants with practical knowledge for independent living.
Valentine’s Day Sensory Activity
For Valentine’s Day, I created a themed sensory bin for non-verbal youth at Cedar Heights Residential Living. The bin included tactile, calming items designed to support sensory regulation and engagement, helping the youth explore textures in a safe and festive way.
Homemade Playdough
While at Cedar Heights I also made homemade Valentine’s-themed playdough to promote creativity and sensory stimulation for the youth. The process included combining flour, salt, water, and food colouring to create soft, safe playdough that encouraged fine motor skills and self-expression.
Life Skills Program
As part of the Life Skills Program at Durham CAS, I ran a workshop where youth created a “Letter to My Future Self” alongside a long-term achievement plan. This reflective activity helped youth set meaningful personal and career goals, while building self-awareness and planning skills.
“There is no one-size-fits-all in care. Each young person calls us to be different, real, and responsive.”
– Gerry Fewster
Global Citizen & Equity Reflection Assignment
Review & Reflection Assignments
BTC: Social Action Project/Reflection
Global Citizen & Equity Assignment
Awards and Certifications
Standard First Aid and CPR/AED Level C
Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA) Certified
Child Protection Information Network (CPIN) Trained – Ontario Association of Children's Aid Societies
SafeTALK Suicide Alertness Trained
Mental Health and Addiction Support Trained – Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH)
Crisis Prevention Intervention (CPI) Certified
Violence In the Workplace Trained
G-Class Driver's Licence with personal vehicle
Future Career Goals
My ultimate aspiration is to create meaningful change in the lives of others by connecting them with essential resources and support. After graduating from college, I plan to pursue a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Social Work. My long-term goal is to build a rewarding career with the Children's Aid Society, where I can positively impact the well-being of children, youth, and families.
Get in touch.
Thank you for taking the time to review my ePortfolio. I hope it has provided you with valuable insights into my values, beliefs, and the knowledge I have gained through my experiences. Should you have any questions or wish to connect further, please feel free to contact me.