Alongside facilitation, Encian teaches directly — the ongoing classroom and program work that grounds both the books and the workshops in what actually happens day to day with young children.
I ground my teaching in anti-bias education principles, a vision toward collective liberation, and a deep trust in play and creativity as methods of discovery and learning. I seek to listen attentively to children in their many modes of communication and expression and to create listening contexts for children to listen to others, including non-human agents. I believe that strong relationships of love and respect are foundational to any learning environment.
Teacher and Teacher-Director, Children's Community Center (2013–2026)
Taught children ages 3–5 at an anti-bias, play-based, parent-teacher cooperative preschool with a long tradition of oral storytelling. Served as Co-Teacher-Director from 2020–2026.
Guest Teacher, Aquatic Park School, Berkeley, CA (2012–2013)
Guest-taught infants, toddlers, and preschoolers at a Reggio-inspired school.
Founding Collective Member, Gender Justice in Early Childhood (Fall 2015–present)
Research, scholarship, resource generation, workshops, lectures, and coaching to support early childhood professionals in embracing gender liberation in their programs and communities.
Core Member, Bay Area Childcare Collective (2008–2026)
Stewarded an organization that provides free and sliding-scale, play-based childcare to community-based social justice organizations in the Bay Area, so parents and families may participate in meetings and events.
Participant, Kidpower International Training of Practitioners (TOP) Program (2025–ongoing)
Currently a Kidpower practitioner, in training to become a certified instructor for Kidpower Safety Power International, an organization empowering people of all ages by learning hands-on practical safety skills.