Sunshine Room
Ages 2-3
In the Sunshine Room, our youngest learners begin developing independence, exploring the world around them, and learning from each other, as well as caring teachers, how it feels to be part of a larger social group: the classroom!
Year Highlights
- Preparing and baking our own snack monthly
- Multi-week unit on birds
- Planting & gardening (bulbs, beans, sunflowers)
- Walking trips around Weston
- A visit from the Weston Fire Department
Sunshine Teachers
Kristin Jones - Teacher
Kristin joined The Little School in the fall of 2025. She has over 15 years of experience working in early childhood education, having taught in three different preschools in the Boston area. She is eager to continue her work with young children in a nurturing, community-focused environment like The Little School.
Ashley Dierkes - Teacher
Ashley joined the Sunshine Room team in the Spring of 2026. A native Vermonter, she has worked full-time with children since 2019, gaining experience with children from 12 weeks to 12 years of age. Ashley is currently pursuing her bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education. On weekends, she and her partner enjoy renovating their newly purchased historic home. Ashley brings creativity, fresh ideas, and wonderful energy to the Sunshine Room.
Emma Petry - Assistant
Emma grew up in Manchester VT. After graduating from Burr and Burton Academy she moved to upstate New York and spent a year working as a teacher’s assistant in a local childcare program. She has begun working toward a degree in Early Childhood Education and furthering her career in the field. Emma is also one of our Kids Club teachers.
A Typical Day in the Sunshine Room
9:00 – 9:15 | Arrival and Welcome
9:15 – 9:50 | Free Play & Art or Group Project
9:50 – 10:15 | Morning Snack
10:15 – 10:40 | Free Play
10:40 – 10:50 | Clean-Up
10:50 – 11:00 | Story Circle and Music & Movement
11:00 – 11:30 | Outdoor Play
11:30 – 12:00 | Lunch
12:00 | Pick-up for Morning-Only Kids
12:00 – 2:15 | Quiet Rest
2:15 – 3:30 | Outdoor Play
3:30 | Pick-Up
