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The workshop “Learning to Play, Playing to Learn” drew 125 early childhood educators from 35 local early learning sites. Childcare Resources of Indian River hosted 125 early childhood educators representing over 35 local sites for a professional learning workshop focused on the power of play in child development. The session, “Learning to Play, Playing to Learn,” featured Dr. Peg Oliveira, director of the Gesell Program in Early Childhood at the Yale Child Study Center. Dr. Oliveira guided educators through the ways play strengthens cognitive growth and helps children build meaningful peer connections. She also introduced the idea of play as a spectrum, showing how guided, open-ended, and imaginative play each support learning in different ways. “The good that comes out of guided play is ways we engage children to learn beyond content,” says Dr. Oliveira. “Play exists on a spectrum, ranging from free exploration to guided activities that help children build new skills.” The workshop was made possible with the support of the Childcare Resources Program Committee. Back row, (L-R): Gail Nourse, Claudia McNulty, Kathy Marshall, Nancy Hebard, Susan Donovan, and Carol Buhl. Front row, (L-R): Pam Barr and Pam Barefoot. Throughout the day, participants took part in lively discussions about how they bring play into their classrooms. Educators compared experiences, exchanged strategies, and explored new approaches to creating playful environments that help young learners thrive. Childcare Resources Early Childhood Education Coaches Amanda Gooch, Todd Morrow, workshop special presenter Dr. Peg Oliveira, and Jensen McCord. Childcare Resources Executive Director Shannon McGuire Bowman reflected on how the workshop supports the organization’s mission. “Play is at the heart of how young children learn, and it’s a core part of our curriculum,” says Bowman. “When educators build on their understanding of playful learning, they create classrooms where children can think, explore, and grow with confidence.” This workshop was made possible with support from PNC Grow Up Great, Indian River County Children’s Services Advisory Committee and Vero Beach Museum of Art.

Rachel Ludwig, VP of Talent Development for the Future of Work at the Florida Chamber Foundation, Shannon McGuire Bowman, Childcare Resources Executive Diretor, and Tracy Sorzano, Childcare Resources Board President. Childcare Resources hosted its annual advocacy event, The Landscape of Early Childhood Education: A Conversation with the Florida Chamber Foundation , on December 1 at Windsor Beach Club. The gathering brought community leaders and stakeholders together to reflect on the growing need for high-quality early learning and its impact on the economy, continuing the organization’s tradition of convening partners who believe early education is essential to a thriving community. Advocacy event hosts Ned and Suzu Neithercut alongside Carla Meyer and Vincent Ryan at Windsor Beach Club. The evening featured guest speaker Rachel Ludwig, Vice President of Talent Development at the Florida Chamber Foundation. She shared strategies to strengthen Florida’s workforce by showing how investing in early learning helps address challenges long before they reach the workplace.  Trish Essick, John Moran, and Vero Beach City Mayor John Cotugno. “Access to quality early learning isn’t just an education issue, but an economic imperative for Florida,” says Ludwig. “When our youngest learners build strong foundations, families can work, employers can grow, and our state’s talent pipeline becomes stronger. Investing in early learning is investing in Florida’s future prosperity.” Susan Blaxill-Deal and Scott Deal. The program also highlighted how Childcare Resources is already tackling these barriers. With its upcoming move to a new downtown campus and growing programs, the organization is positioned to reach more children and strengthen support for working families. “Our community understands that early education is not only a family issue, but a workforce issue,” says Executive Director Shannon McGuire Bowman. “This event underscored how essential it is to ensure that every Indian River County child has access to high-quality learning from the start.” Indian River County Chamber of Commerce President Andrea Beam and Caryn Toole. The evening was graciously hosted by Christine and Christian Hammarskjold and Suzu and David Neithercut, and underwritten by Carole B. Brown, Marie Ek, Jean and Jim Kelly, and Linda and Mel Teetz.

Childcare Resources Executive Director Shannon McGuire Bowman (L) with Mural Fest artist Morgan Summers. Childcare Resources of Indian River took part in the inaugural Vero Beach Mural Fest, a new community event that invited residents and visitors to explore downtown and watch artists turn blank walls into colorful landmarks. Taking part in the festival allowed Childcare Resources to help showcase the spirit and history of Vero Beach through art that reflects the families at the heart of their work. Bright colors and nature-inspired details now welcome families to Childcare Resources’ new downtown campus. As part of the event, the northwest entrance of Childcare Resources’ new downtown early childhood education campus was transformed by artist Morgan Summers. Her mural, filled with bright florals and fauna, offers a warm welcome to families and educators and reflects the care and learning that will take place inside the new campus. Throughout the festival, families, donors, and early educators were encouraged to walk downtown, meet Summers, and watch the mural come to life. Artist Morgan Summers adds bright, colorful detail to the new mural at Childcare Resources’ downtown campus.  “We are grateful to be part of Mural Fest and to see our future campus represented in such a beautiful way,” says Executive Director Shannon McGuire Bowman. “This mural captures the heart of our work and the joy we hope children and families feel when they arrive each day.” Summers shared the inspiration behind her design, saying, “Inspired by both artwork at the existing Childcare Resources facility and icons from my own childhood, this set of murals aims to display comfort and protection provided by caring adults toward children. Titled ‘The Guardians,’ my hope is that these paintings can serve as a reminder of the crucial roles caregiving and community play in the development of young children.” The mural marks an exciting step toward opening the new campus and deepening Childcare Resources’ connection to the downtown community.

Childcare Resources hosted a Community of Practice which brought together early educators from eleven local centers. Back row (L-R): Guadalupe Ramos, Macy Gondek, Rachael Yancy, Laura Wood, Tatum Auguste, Michelle Moore, Elizabeth Laney, Jocelyn Soriano. Front row (L-R): Eloisa Cruz, Evangelina Ramos, Charlene Arreche, Amanda Gooch, Elizabeth Guthrie, Lisa Fortes, Lydia Reed. Rachel Yancy and Charlene Arreche, early childhood educators at First Presbyterian Preschool, are putting their Baby Doll Circle Time training into practice, using new strategies in their classrooms. Early childhood educators from across Indian River County recently gathered for a Community of Practice hosted by Childcare Resources of Indian River. Led by Early Childhood Education Coach Amanda Gooch, the sessions focused on Baby Doll Circle Time , a hands-on approach that helps teachers build positive, nurturing relationships with young children. A Community of Practice is a collaborative workshop where early educators come together to share ideas, learn new strategies, and strengthen their teaching practices. These sessions brought together fifteen educators from eleven local centers to explore how healthy relationships with caring adults support optimal child development. Students take part in Baby Doll Circle Time, practicing everyday routines like rocking and caring for dolls while learning how to interact with others.   “Baby Doll Circle Time was a treasure trove of information,” said Rachel Yancey, an educator at First Presbyterian Preschool. “I’ve started using what I learned to create fun, teachable moments each day, helping me connect more with my quieter students and build stronger relationships.” During these sessions, teachers guide children through simple activities like rocking and caring for dolls to model kindness, attention, and positive interactions with others. This approach helps children build patience and awareness while giving teachers practical ways to reinforce calm in the classroom. “Professional learning opportunities like this allow teachers to grow and connect with peers who share their commitment,” said Childcare Resources executive director Shannon McGuire Bowman. “When educators feel supported, the children in their care thrive.” Childcare Resources hosts themed Communities of Practice each fall, spring, and summer at no cost to early childhood educators in Indian River County. Through this outreach effort, the organization strengthens the local early education workforce and enhances the quality of care for young children.

Over 120 local early childhood educators attended “Embracing the Science of Reading in Our Early Childhood Classrooms” at the Vero Beach Museum of Art. Childcare Resources of Indian River brought together 125 early childhood educators from 36 local sites for a professional learning workshop on “Embracing the Science of Reading in Our Early Childhood Classrooms.” The session was hosted at the Vero Beach Museum of Art and led by experts Tracie Wieczorek and Lesley Jennings of Teaching Strategies. (L–R) Childcare Resources Program Committee member and co-founder Kathy Marshall; workshop presenters Tracie Wieczorek and Lesley Jennings of Teaching Strategies; and Program Committee member and co-founder Sherry Waddell. The program offered interactive sessions where educators reflected on how they teach literacy and explored how early language experiences and brain development lay the groundwork for reading. “The white matter of the brain grows when you expose children to all levels of phonemic awareness because their brains develop so much more rapidly in those early years,” said Wieczorek. “We must meet them where they are developmentally.” Participants also took part in a visual literacy scavenger hunt, exploring museum galleries to connect art observation with language and literacy development. Center directors from across Indian River County joined Childcare Resources for their latest professional learning workshop. L–R: Stephanie Herrera (Roseland Christian Preschool), Barbara Erege (First Presbyterian), Gloria Mosier (Mosier Family Childcare), Jhoanna Gomez (Kendall Academy), Kathryn Muth (Kidtastic Family Daycare), Tara Beard (Childcare Resources), Laura Wood (Wood Family Home Daycare), Lenora Carter (Douglas Head Start), and Camilla Anderson (St. Helen’s & Douglas Head Start). Elizabeth Laney, an early educator at Head Start at Indian River Academy, described the workshop as a rewarding learning experience. “Understanding the science behind reading gave me new ideas for supporting my students’ language growth,” said Laney. “I plan to add more exercises focused on early sound skills in my own classroom.” “As our youngest learners build the foundation for a lifetime of learning, this workshop was a powerful reminder of how crucial early literacy is to children’s future success,” said Shannon McGuire Bowman, Childcare Resources executive director. “By equipping our educators with research-based strategies, we’re strengthening our entire early-learning community.” This workshop was made possible with support from PNC Grow Up Great, Indian River County Children’s Services Advisory Committee and Vero Beach Museum of Art.

PNC’s Cressman Bronson (R), EVP and Regional President for Southeast Florida, speaks with Childcare Resources program parents about the importance of financial literacy.  Program parents from Childcare Resources of Indian River gathered for a Parent Engagement Night supported in part by PNC Grow Up Great®, PNC’s signature philanthropic initiative. The evening gave families the opportunity to learn practical strategies for budgeting, building credit and planning for the future. Childcare Resources partnered with PNC as part of its Wellness and Early Intervention Program, which offers Parent Cafés and other engagement opportunities to strengthen families. Program parents spend the evening learning practical strategies for budgeting, building credit and planning for the future. “Supporting families is at the heart of our mission. By giving parents the tools to manage their financial health, we’re helping build stronger homes where children can thrive,” said Shannon McGuire Bowman, Childcare Resources executive director. “We are deeply grateful to PNC for making this opportunity possible for our families.” For program parent Morgan Ellis, the workshop was a welcome opportunity to gain new tools. “As a single parent, budgeting is so important to me,” said Ellis. “This workshop gave me practical strategies I can actually use, and I’m grateful to Childcare Resources for offering something so helpful for my family.” Childcare Resources is grateful to PNC Grow Up Great for giving program parents this opportunity. Hosted by (L-R) Daniel Cabrera, Branch Manager at Indian River Mall; Monclaude Nestor, Senior VP and Florida Market Manager; Kim Reckley, SVP, Client and Community Relations Director; Cindy Pilloni, VP of Client and Community Relations; Scott Smith, Branch Banker at Indian River Mall; and Cressman Bronson, EVP and Regional President for Southeast Florida. Through a collaboration between PNC Grow Up Great and the PNC Center for Financial Education, parents participated in interactive sessions with PNC professionals and left with planners to track their household budget. Children also received early learning activity books focused on building financial basics, such as spending, sharing, and saving, encouraging the whole family to grow together.  Childcare Resources is proud to collaborate with organizations like PNC to strengthen both children and their families. Events like this highlight the connection between strong financial habits at home and long-term success in school and beyond.

In this issue: Little Learners, Big Steps Building Brighter Futures: DeShannon and Desmond Starting the Year Strong Donor Spotlight: Pam Barr A Day of Learning Educator of the Year: Marilyn Brock Little Learners, Big Steps Laughter, happy tears, and proud applause filled the room as families, teachers, volunteers, and supporters gathered to celebrate the Childcare Resources Class of 2025. Dressed in caps and gowns, twenty-eight young graduates performed songs—including one in sign language—and accepted their diplomas beaming with pride, ready for kindergarten and beyond. Claudia McNulty, dedicated member of the program committee and school volunteer, attended the graduation with her sister. “Attending the Graduation ceremony was such a joyful celebration,” says Claudia.  “Seeing the children’s bright smiles and the pride on the faces of family was truly heartwarming.” Graduation day is the culmination of everything our donors help make possible: years of learning, growth, and joyful discovery. Because of your support, these bright learners are ready to take on the world. Thank you for being part of their journey.  Building Brighter Futures: DeShannon and Desmond When DeShannon heard about Childcare Resources through a local community partner, she knew immediately that this could be the opportunity she was looking for. As a single mother, she was determined to give her son, Desmond, the best possible start.Shortly after enrolling, it became clear that Desmond wasn’t hitting his early communication milestones. “He wasn’t talking,” DeShannon recalls. “And I started to worry he might be having trouble hearing, too.” Thankfully, Childcare Resources offers more than high-quality early education. Through its Wellness and Early Intervention Program, the school conducts regular hearing, vision, and developmental assessments for all enrolled children. During Desmond’s hearing screening, the staff identified signs of hearing loss. The Wellness team guided DeShannon through navigating insurance and local referrals, supporting her through each stage of the process. After Desmond received his hearing aids, Childcare Resources began on-site speech therapy and basic sign language lessons to strengthen his growing communication skills. “All of the challenges I was facing as a single mother were made easier with Childcare Resources by my side,”  DeShannon says. “They pointed me in the right direction and made sure I wasn’t alone.” DeShannon felt real peace of mind knowing that Desmond was receiving both the early intervention and high-quality education he needed, all in one place. She saw firsthand how the care and support he received helped him grow. Desmond’s classmates even learned sign language, creating a classroom community where everyone could connect. Today, Desmond communicates clearly, expresses his needs and ideas, and enjoys spending time with his friends. He especially loves reading, learning new things, and continues to grow more confident each day.   “The staff show him so much love and patience,” DeShannon says.  “I can’t thank Childcare Resources enough for helping with his hearing loss and always being so kind. They truly care about him.” Desmond recently graduated from Childcare Resources— fully prepared for kindergarten. Starting the Year Strong The beginning of a new school year brings excitement, but also big transitions. For young children, those first few weeks are filled with new routines and new faces. At Childcare Resources, our educators don’t navigate that alone. Our Mental and Behavioral Health Coaches, Anne and Jessica, work with teachers to ensure every child feels safe, supported, and ready to learn. To start the year, Anne and Jessica led a Teacher Café on handling common classroom behavior challenges. They introduced Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) strategies that reinforce positive behaviors through repetition, redirection, and encouragement. “Behavior is a prerequisite to learning,” says Jessica. “We’re not just teaching young children what to learn, we’re teaching them how to learn.” Anne brought the concepts to life by sharing home videos of her children, giving teachers a relatable view of strategies in action. "The session aims to give teachers the chance to really reflect on their approach,” says Anne.  “We want them to walk away with practical, proven tools they can start using right away.” This type of in-depth training is a key feature of Childcare Resources’ Wellness and Early Intervention Program. By consistently supporting and expanding the knowledge of our early education staff, we’re building stronger classrooms and brighter futures. Donor Spotlight: Pam Barr When Pam first learned about Childcare Resources, she knew she wanted to help. “I had been involved in early childhood education for 34 years,” she says. “When I toured the center, I loved the classrooms, the teachers, and the people. I knew I could make a difference.” From serving on the program committee to baking treats for Teacher Appreciation Week, Pam is always giving back. She has also played a key role in making sure every child in our program has their Holiday Wishlist fulfilled. “ Honestly, I’ve loved every aspect of being involved. It’s hard to pick just one moment,”  she says. “Being able to support the teachers and children directly is incredibly rewarding.” Her advice to anyone considering involvement is simple: “Absolutely do it. There are so many ways to get involved, and it’s fun and rewarding. If you care about the success of young children, Childcare Resources is a place where you can make a real impact.” Because of donors like Pam, children in our community have safe classrooms, skilled teachers, and the support they need to reach their full potential from day on A Day of Learning, A Future of Impact Childcare Resources kicked off its first professional learning workshop of the academic year at the Vero Beach Museum of Art. The day was led by Master Instructor Angela Fraley, who brought energy and insight to the Conscious Discipline approach. More than 180 early childhood educators representing over 43 organizations across Indian River County came together for the workshop, highlighting their commitment to nurturing our youngest learners. “Your job is about building brain development and creating space where children can connect safely and problem-solve,” says Fraley.  “This is foundational to everything children learn.” Centered on Conscious Discipline, this research-based approach equips teachers to guide children, promote self-regulation, and create supportive classrooms for learning. Teachers left with new strategies and practical tools to demonstrate resilience and consistency in their teaching. This opportunity gave them the chance to grow in their practice, and in turn, hundreds of children across Indian River County will benefit from stronger, more connected learning environments.   “When we learn how to manage our stress ourselves, we are capable of modeling it for children,” says Fraley. “Conscious Discipline isn’t just a program. It is part of our everyday life.” Educator of the Year At the workshop, the inaugural Early Childhood Educator of the Year Award was presented to Ms. Marilyn Brock, honoring more than three decades of dedication to young children and families. Over the years, Marilyn has been a tireless teacher and advocate in the field of early education. “Marilyn’s career reflects an unwavering commitment to children and families,”  says Executivce Director Shannon McGuire Bowman. “She represents the very best of what it means to be an early educator, and we are proud to honor her as our first Educator of the Year.” Created to celebrate excellence, this award recognizes an early childhood educator whose dedication and innovation foster children’s learning and development. “There is nothing more rewarding than knowing that I’ve made an impact on a child’s life,”  says Marilyn. “No matter how many years I do this, it never gets old.” Her words and her example reflect the passion and professionalism that make high-quality early childhood education possible. All nominees for this award were put forward by their school directors, a reflection of the deep respect and admiration they inspire in their own classrooms.

Angela Fraley leads local early childhood educators in a Conscious Discipline workshop at the Vero Beach Museum of Art. Childcare Resources of Indian River hosted a Conscious Discipline professional learning workshop at the Vero Beach Museum of Art, bringing together 175 local early childhood educators. The workshop was led by Master Instructor Angela Fraley, who guided participants in strategies to handle challenging moments and build supportive classrooms. “Conscious Discipline is about rituals and connection,” says Fraley. “When we master our own stress, we can model it for children. Conflict becomes an opportunity to teach, and play becomes the key to self-regulation.” Childcare Resources Executive Director Shannon McGuire Bowman (R) with Master Instructor Angela Fraley (L) who led the Conscious Discipline professional learning workshop for 175 local early educators. Educators from 38 early childhood sites across Indian River County came together to practice hands-on techniques, collaborate with peers, and create stronger connections. They left with practical strategies to use right away, showing how collective learning strengthens both individual practice and the early childhood community as a whole. “The best part of this workshop was learning exercises on how I can better support my students by managing my own self-control,” says Claudia Pinyon, School Director at Indian River Academy Head Start.   (L–R) Program Committee members Sherry Waddell, Carol Buhl, and Susan Donovan volunteered at the Conscious Discipline workshop, welcoming local early educators at check-in and preparing lunch to help ensure a smooth and successful event. “It was inspiring to see so many educators spend their Saturday with us,” says Shannon McGuire Bowman, Executive Director of Childcare Resources. “By deepening their skills, they enhance the learning experiences of our community’s children.” In addition to offering valuable professional growth, workshops like these also provide educators with a shared space to connect, recharge, and reaffirm their passion for teaching. By investing in educators’ well-being and professional skills, Childcare Resources helps lay the groundwork for children’s long-term growth and success. This workshop was made possible with support from PNC Grow Up Great, Indian River County Children’s Services Advisory Committee and Vero Beach Museum of Art.

Marilyn Brock (L) accepts Early Childhood Educator of the Year award from Shannon McGuire Bowman (R). Brock has dedicated over 30 years of service to young children and families. Childcare Resources of Indian River proudly presented the inaugural Early Childhood Educator of the Year Award to Marilyn Brock in recognition of her more than 30 years of service to young children and families. The award was created to honor the professionalism of early educators and to highlight the essential role they play in shaping children’s lives. The presentation took place during Childcare Resources’ Conscious Discipline professional learning workshop at the Vero Beach Museum of Art. Tara Beard, Childcare Resources School Director, praises Brock’s impact. “The kindness and patience she shows to her students and their families is remarkable,” says Beard. “Marilyn is everything Childcare Resources represents, and we are blessed to have her.” Finalist Terrie Sears (L) alongside Head Start St. Helen’s School Director Camilla Andersen. All finalists were nominated by their school directors, a testament to the deep respect and admiration they have earned within their own communities. “There’s nothing more rewarding than knowing that I’ve made an impact,” says Brock. “I get to celebrate accomplishments throughout the day and watch my students grow. No matter how many days I do this, it never gets old.” Finalist Nicole Patton (R) alongside Kidtastic Large Family Daycare Director Kathryn Muth. “Marilyn’s dedication as an educator goes beyond teaching,” says Shannon McGuire Bowman, Executive Director of Childcare Resources. “She has created a nurturing environment where children feel valued and families feel supported. Her lifelong commitment to this work is a gift to our community.” In addition to honoring Brock, Childcare Resources recognized the outstanding success of other finalists: Terrie Sears at Head Start St. Helen’s, Nicole Patton at Kidtastic Large Family Daycare, Genesis Sosa at Global Learning of Vero, Rose Marie Heaton at Trinity Episcopal School, and Mauricia Flynn at Bridges ELC. Together, these educators exemplify the passion and dedication that strengthen early childhood education.

Graduates of Childcare Resources’ Class of 2025 proudly celebrate their achievement before heading to kindergarten. Childcare Resources of Indian River recently celebrated the graduation of the Class of 2025, honoring a group of young learners who are now prepared to take their next big step into kindergarten. Families, teachers, and supporters filled the room with pride and joy as students were recognized for their accomplishments and growth. Graduation day at Childcare Resources is always a special moment, marking the culmination of years of learning, friendship, and development. This year’s celebration featured student performances of five songs, including one with sign language accompaniment, demonstrating the academic skills the children have built during their time in the program. Students perform a song for families, teachers, and school volunteers, reciting the ABCs in sign language. “These students are leaving us with strong foundations that will carry them into kindergarten and beyond,” said Executive Director Shannon McGuire Bowman. “It’s a joyful and emotional milestone, and a reminder of how high-quality early education transforms tomorrow for children and their families.” Families, teachers, and volunteers all played a role in making the moment meaningful. For parents, the ceremony was more than a celebration—it was proof of what their children have achieved through support, care, and opportunity. “This program has made a big difference for my son,” said program parent Yulisa Romero. “I’ve seen how much he’s grown, and I know he’s truly ready for kindergarten. It means everything to know he’s ready for this next step.” Childcare Resources looks forward to welcoming a new class of students for the 2025–2026 school year and invites the community to learn more about how to get involved. For more information about volunteer opportunities, please visit Childcare Resources’ website: ChildcareResourcesIR.org .

Early Childhood Education Coach Todd Morrow pictured with participants of the Summer Community of Practice, including early educators from Kendall Academy Preschool, Childcare Resources of Indian River, KidCity USA, First Presbyterian Preschool, RCMA, and Bridges Early Learning Center. Throughout July, early childhood educators from across Indian River County gathered weekly for Childcare Resources’ Summer Community of Practice, a professional development series led by Early Childhood Education Coach Todd Morrow. This summer session saw such strong interest that it quickly filled and even had a waitlist, showing just how committed local educators are to growth and collaboration. A community of practice is a collaborative group where educators meet regularly to share successes, discuss challenges, and exchange ideas. In the summer session, participants focused on CLASS assessments, which measure the quality of teacher-child interactions that impact learning and development. Educators reflected on their progress, shared classroom footage, and explored new techniques, leading to stronger relationships, improved instruction, and more positive learning environments. Childcare Resources’ Summer Community of Practice drew high interest from local early educators, filling quickly and even generating a waitlist. “This type of collaborative professional development is critical,” says Shannon McGuire Bowman, Executive Director of Childcare Resources. “When educators from across the community come together to share ideas, reflect honestly, and support one another, it elevates the quality of care and learning for all children in Indian River County.” Debbie Ann Simpson of Bridges Early Learning Center said the experience was deeply meaningful. “Being part of this class allowed me to enhance my skills and expertise while gaining support and insight from other educators. I left each session feeling more confident and inspired to grow.” Community of Practice is part of Childcare Resources’ ongoing commitment to strengthening early education by supporting the professionals who provide it. Additional sessions are already being planned, with more opportunities ahead for local educators to build skills and share ideas.

Students in the Chrysanthemums classroom proudly share their favorite pages from the Triton Submarines “look book,” inspired by a recent classroom visit. Childcare Resources of Indian River was thrilled to welcome Sophie Bentham-Wood, Executive Director of Global Marketing at Triton Submarines, for a special visit with students in the Chrysanthemums classroom. The visit was a highlight for the four-year-olds, who have been diving into the world of submarines as part of their recent learning journey. Students explore marine life featured in Triton Submarines’ deep-sea adventures, sparking curiosity and imagination. Mrs. Bentham-Wood toured the campus before joining the Chrysanthemums classroom, where eager students were ready to greet her. The children, who have been learning about the ocean and how submarines explore deep waters, were excited to ask questions. As a special gift, Mrs. Bentham-Wood brought Triton Submarines’ brochures for each student. The “look books,” filled with vibrant images and information on the various submarine models manufactured by Triton right here in Indian River County, gave students a tangible connection to what they’ve been studying in the classroom. “This kind of experience brings learning to life,” said Shannon McGuire Bowman, Executive Director of Childcare Resources. “To see our students’ faces light up with excitement and curiosity as they talked to someone who works with real submarines shows how deeply these local connections can inspire and inform.” For Childcare Resources, the visit reflects the value of community partnerships in supporting early learning. By connecting students with local industries, the organization helps expand their understanding of the world—and what’s possible. “Sharing our passion for submarine design with young minds is always a highlight,” said Mrs. Bentham-Wood. “We aim to inspire all generations to care for our oceans and discover the wonders below.” Childcare Resources continues to connect with leaders and organizations across Indian River County to create meaningful learning opportunities for its students.