A Day in Ellis’s Infant Classroom

Ellis
Feb 4
2 min read

Part of a series: Where Education Begins

Pree Dawn teaches infants in our Ladybugs classroom.

As an Ellis Infant educator, Pree Dawn begins each day with drop-offs, greeting families, welcoming the students, and connecting with parents about their child’s latest updates. Those conversations help guide everything that follows during the day. Pree and her co-teachers in the Ladybugs classroom – Emani, Tiaja, and Niurka – shape the curriculum around each child’s unique needs and interests.

To kick off learning for the day, Pree explains, “We set up different play stations and see which children gravitate towards which activity.” Ellis’s Infant curriculum, developed with Neighborhood Villages, adapts to each child’s interests and developmental stage, so foundational concepts are introduced in ways that meet those unique needs. “If a child loves soft blocks,” Pree says, “we’ll find a way to apply them to a learning concept – such as sensory exploration – so it feels natural.”

Pree joined Ellis in June 2025 after leaving a career as a paralegal. “I’ve always connected with kids,” she says. “I wanted work that felt more playful and meaningful.”

She brought that same attention to detail into her new role. Because infants change so quickly, constant communication with families is essential. “Everyone has their own routines and cultures,” Pree explains, “but they’re excited to share how their child is growing. It’s special to be part of that.”

For Pree, the most meaningful part of working with infants is building trust from the very beginning, especially with first-time parents. “You get to celebrate milestones together,” she says. “You’re partners in every child’s growth.”

A Day in the Life of an Ellis Infant Educator

Morning Drop-Off: Warm greetings, parent check-ins, and gentle transitions into the classroom.

Exploration and Play: Teachers set out toys with intention based on each child’s interests to encourage sensory learning and curiosity.

Finger painting allows infants to explore through sensory play.

Feedings: Bottles and meals are scheduled three times a day around each infant’s individual needs and routines.

Nap Time: Rest periods are planned to match each baby’s sleep schedule.

Curriculum Activities: Developmentally appropriate activities focused on identity, movement, and sensory exploration. Mirror play, for example, supports identity development, while sensory bags — sealed bags filled with textured materials like gel, paint, or small objects — allow infants to safely explore different sensations.

Pick-Up and Parent Connection: Teachers share updates and celebrate daily milestones with families.