College of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences

3 & 4 Year-Old Classroom

The Creative Curriculum is designed for early childhood programs. We believe that children learn through play, and that their play consists of exploring and discovering how things work. The children in this classroom explore blocks, dramatic play, manipulative materials, books, sand/water table, and discovery centers in math and science, music, computers, and writing.

Teachers

Monica Sellars Headshot
Monica Sellars

Mrs. Monica Sellars

Lead Teacher • 3–4-Year-Old Classroom

Hello! My name is Mrs. Monica Sellars. I am one of the lead teachers in the 3-4-year-old classroom. I have 23 years of experience working with children and families. I have a Bachelor of Science in Human Development and Family Studies from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro with a Level 11 Early Educator Certification as determined by the North Carolina Institute for Child Development Professionals.

I've had the privilege of undergoing varied training experiences, each contributing to my holistic approach to education and empowering me to create meaningful learning environments for children.

My biggest reward when working with children is knowing that I have given children the knowledge and skills they need to succeed and influence the future. My hobbies include spending time with my family, cooking, traveling, shopping, and watching sports.

Shywana Walden Headshot
Shywana Walden

Ms. Shywana Walden

Lead Teacher • 3–4-Year-Old Classroom

Hello! My name is Ms. Shywana Walden. I am one of the lead teachers in the 3-4-year-old classroom. I have 12 years of experience working in early childhood education. I hold an Associate Degree in Early Childhood Education, an Infant-Toddler Certificate, an Administration Credential, and an Early Childhood Credential.

I am currently pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Child Development and Family Studies and hold a Level 8 Early Educator Certification through the North Carolina Institute for Child Development Professionals. I am also certified in First Aid and CPR, Playground Safety, and several other areas of professional development.

Throughout my experience, I have learned that every child brings unique ideas and interests to the classroom. I strive to create engaging learning experiences that spark curiosity and encourage children to think creatively, solve problems, and become more independent. I am especially excited to help children prepare for the next stage of their educational journey while creating lasting memories along the way.

My greatest reward is witnessing the moment a child realizes what they are capable of and seeing their confidence grow with each new accomplishment. I look forward to getting to know each child and celebrating all their milestones throughout the year.

In my free time, I enjoy sewing.

Classroom Schedule

Time:
7:45 - 8 a.m.
Arrival and Greeting of Children and Families/Free Choice Areas
Time:
8:00 - 8:05 a.m.
Transition to Classroom
Time:
8:05 - 8:30 a.m.
Free Choice/Centers Open
Time:
8:30 - 9:10 a.m.
Morning Snack (Free Choice for non-snack children)
Time:
9:10 - 9:15 a.m.
Clean up Time (Bathroom breaks as needed)
Time:
9:15 - 9:30 a.m.
Morning Meeting/Literacy Enrichment
Time:
9:30 - 10:30 a.m.
Enriched free play/Planning/Small Group Experience
Time:
10:30 - 10:45 a.m.
Clean up Time
Time:
10:45 - 11:20 a.m
Outside/Inside play (Weather Permitting)
Time:
11:20 - 11:30 a.m.
Prepare for lunch (Hand washing/Bathroom)
Time:
11:30 - 11:50 a.m.
Lunch (Food Discussion)
Time:
11:50 a.m. - 12:10 p.m.
Bathroom
Time:
12:15 - 2:30 p.m.
Rest Time/ Relaxing Music (Early Risers-Quiet Activities)
Time:
2:30 - 3:00 p.m.
Bathroom/Afternoon snack
Time:
3:00 - 3:15 p.m.
Group Time/Review & Recall/Story Time
Time:
3:15 - 4:15 p.m.
Enriched Free Play/ Small Group Activities
Time:
4:15 - 4:45 p.m.
Outside/Inside play (Weather Permitting) (Gross Motor Activities/Music Enriched)
Time:
4:45pm- 5:00 p.m.
Water/Bathroom
Time:
5:00pm- 5:30 p.m.
Enriched Free Play/Clean up/Departure

Required Supplies

Families of children enrolled in the Child Development Laboratory are required to provide some basic supplies for the appropriate care of their child’s needs.