Meet Our Tutor Time Staff – Ms. Shelia, Infant Teacher

Ms. Shelia is the lead infant B (eight to 18-month-olds) teacher at Tutor Time in Powell, OH. She has been working with little ones at Tutor Time for five years, but has seven years of experience in the field. Read our Q&A to learn more about this incredible infant teacher!

Tell us a bit about your background!

Originally, I started working in the IT field. We see how far that got me! Obviously I changed my idea of where I wanted to be.

What was it that made you switch to early education?

My mother-in-law. She sued to be a lead infant teacher also and she told me she thought it’d be something I was good at. So I thought I’d give it a try and I loved it!

Why did you specifically decide to work with infants?

It’s just a good transitional age in the infant B room. They’re not babies anymore, but they’re not really toddlers either. You’re at this point where they’re learning everything from walking to talking to motor skills. It’s just a really good age to work with because you get the best of both worlds.

How is it rewarding for you?

I feel it’s just rewarding because I know each and every baby takes something out of here with them. My room is such a big room for learning things, and every time they learn something, it’s really gratifying to know that I taught them that.

What’s an example of an activity you would do in your classroom?

We recently did a mess-free Valentine’s Day heart painting where we used Ziploc baggies to paint. It’s a sensory and art activity at the same time. So they’re able to squish it and play with it, but they’re also making something, too.

How do you ensure strong lines of communication between yourself and your students’ parents?

Having brightwheel really does help with that a lot. They love to see the pictures, and I like to send as many pictures as possible. And I just let them know I’m here and available anytime they need me.

What was your favorite subject when you were in school?

English. I’m really into reading. Reading has always been one of my greatest passions. I still read a book a week, or more.

Can you share your favorite book to read to your students?

“Goodnight Moon” is my favorite for my classroom age. And “The Hungry Caterpillar.”

Could you share a memorable moment from your time here at Tutor Time?

One of my students had been away all summer, since his mother worked in the schools and had the summer off. As soon as he walked in the door that fall and saw me, he ran down the hallway. He wasn’t even walking when I saw him last! And he still remembered me! He was able to say “She-she” because that’s what all my babies call me, everybody calls me “Ms. She-She.” That’s one of my most heartfelt moments.