While the main focus of this weekly club will be on allowing young animal enthusiasts to share their love of earths' coolest creatures, we will also be practicing important primary-age social and educational skills as we learn about habitats, adaptation, and other STEAM concepts.  The short creature lesson at the beginning will provide a framework for these discussions and will help the young explorer to build and develop observation, recreation, and communication skills, as well as foster curiosity, wonder, and interest in the world around them, with an eye to honoring and protecting nature and its inhabitants.  The field guide will serve as a fun keepsake and reference for future animal studies and reflection.

Shiny Happy Kids teachers have been working with students ages 3-18 in a variety of settings, from art schools and STEAM labs to libraries, summer camps, forest school, and even RPG game tables.  One thing we all have in common is a dedication to creating safe, positive, inclusive spaces and experiences where kids can connect, experiment, be challenged, share their passions, and just be their wonderful selves.  We want you to SHINE!

From Miss Ashley: I have always loved to work with young children! Ever since I was a kid, I was very creative in coming up with unique ways of expressing myself. That uniqueness carried over into my adult life, and that is what brings me here today! I love being a part of a child’s yearn to learn and I believe that learning is always fun. I’m a mom to two amazing kiddos, both currently in elementary school. Before having my kids, I had 7 years experience in working with children primary-aged through elementary school. I was an assistant Pre-K teacher followed by working at various summer camps through my local Parks & Recreation department. I’ve worn many hats throughout life but my favorite one is being a mom. I love my wonderful husband, my amazing kiddos, my 3 crazy cats, sewing and gardening. 

Shiny Happy Kids is committed to providing a safe, welcoming, affirming space for all kinds of learners.  Growing up as ND and gifted kids, our ND teachers understand the need for classrooms where everyone gets to shine!