Meet Nikki Chantler (28), the passionate teacher at Little Linc play centre in Salt Rock.

Her mantra, and that of the school, is to empower kids to be “brave, kind and honest”.

This sincere young woman is in her element among the children, building obstacle courses for them to play on and preparing surprises for them to discover.

Having studied human movement science before she did her post graduate certificate in foundation phase education, one of her passions is helping the children in her care to develop physically.

“The development of good gross motor skills is a key building block of early childhood and it effects the development of fine motor skills like writing, posture and coordination,” said Nikki.

She ran the gross motor skills department at St Mary’s in Johannesburg for two years prior to obtaining the position at Little Linc.

“Running, jumping, singing, catching and throwing, these are all important and by incorporating them into our playtime the children do not even realise they are developing their muscles it just happens naturally.

Nikki is fun yet firm, as she guides her charges to make good choices.

“Kind hands don’t hit each other, kind hands give hugs,” said Nikkie, sharing an example of how she teaches the children the concept of kindness.

Little Linc, is a Christian play centre run by Linc Church, catering for children from 18 months to aged four.

Nikki is currently on maternity leave after the birth of her first child, Saylor Grace, on April 5.