Barbara Swanke

Toddler Assistant

Background

This is my 13th year at NSMS.  For 12 years I have worked as an assistant in the 

Full-day program and three years in the Toddler program.  I have been trained in 

CPR and First Aid.  Every year we receive 15 hours of additional training.  I 

have also had additional training at the Wellspring Center in Algonquin.

I truly enjoy working with young children.  I enjoy interacting in conversation 

with the children and I love seeing them grow throughout the year.  

I love working at NSMS.  I love the kids and the staff!

Fun Facts

Family:  I have been married for 31 years and have an 18-year-old daughter that 

just went off to college.

Favorite game:  I love games, especially board games because they bring friends 

and family together!

Favorite teacher growing up:  Mrs. Boumgart was my favorite teacher because she 

made class fun!  She was my Home Economics, Sewing, and Child 

Development/Pre-school teacher.

Favorite sports team:  The Chicago Cubs, Bears and Bulls!

Favorite flower:  tulip

Favorite children’s book:  Brown Bear, Brown Bear, by Eric Carle

Favorite animated movie:  Toy Story

Favorite thing to do on the weekend:  I love going up to my cabin Wisconsin to 

relax.

Favorite color:  turquoise

Favorite vacation spot:  Anywhere there is a beach or pool and a good book!

Favorite artist:  Grant Wood

Favorite composer:  Bach