Shawna Gass

I am a family childcare provider. I have been teaching and caring for children for over 15 years. I have my Bachelors in Early Childhood Studies and my Masters in Curriculum and Instruction. I have created a center based feel within my home. So the best of both worlds are being met; the coziness of a home environment with the structure of a center.

I believe in a play-based approach. Children in my care will have many opportunities to explore, inquire, and get dirty! Through a nature based model, your child will have many opportunities to get outside to explore and investigate. My home is located on 2.5 acres of land in the center of Maple Grove which lends itself to all of these great areas to learn. We have wooded areas, gardens, mud kitchens, a sand box, outdoor easel, and more!

The indoors is set up for just as much learning. Places to do art, make a pretend meal, read stories, investigate nature, build, and more. The day is structured for times for independent play as well as group play. Literacy, math, language, science, music, art and more are fostered each day!

Healthy meals and snacks are provided each day. Whenever possible organic and locally sourced foods are served. I believe in providing unique tastes and textures for young children.

Television is very limited. No more than 2 hours a week!

We have a German Shepherd as well. She is always on a different level of the home as the children. She is fun and loving, yet she can be a bit intimidating to little ones. So we have decided to keep her separate from the child care.