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159: Family Nature-Based Childcare: A Lifestyle, Not Just a Job with Stacy Morgan
Join us as we dive into the inspiring journey of Stacy Morgan, a dedicated Family Childcare Provider at Little Bit of Sunshine Nature Learning Academy. Discover how Stacy transitioned from a career in banking to early childhood education, driven by her passion for fostering child-led and nature-based learning environments.
In this episode, Stacy shares her philosophy on integrating nature into daily learning, emphasizing the importance of allowing children to explore and learn at their own pace. Her innovative approach has not only enriched the lives of countless children but also earned her the prestigious 2025 Excellence in Early Childhood Award from the Delaware Institute for Excellence in Early Childhood (DIEEC).
Key Highlights:
- Stacy's career transition from banking to early childhood education.
- The benefits of nature-based learning and child-led exploration.
- Insights into the operations and philosophy of Little Bit of Sunshine Nature Learning Academy.
- Stacy's recognition by DIEEC and the impact of her work on the community.
- Tips for parents and educators on incorporating nature into learning experiences.
Tune in to be inspired by Stacy's commitment Family Childcare and to creating enriching, nature-focused educational experiences and learn how you can incorporate similar practices into your own life or educational setting.
Meet Stacy:
The Delaware Institute for Excellence in Early Childhood (DIEEC) proudly honors Stacy Morgan of Little Bit of Sunshine Nature Learning Academy with the 2025 Excellence in Early Childhood Award in the family child care educator category. Stacy's journey from babysitting and church nursery care to a successful banking career, and finally to early childhood education, reflects her belief in a higher calling. As she puts it, “I’m exactly where God wants me to be!”
Stacy's approach is rooted in building strong relationships and creating a child-led learning environment. Her work is more than a job; it’s a joyful and purposeful part of her life. Parents praise her as “patient, understanding, and resourceful,” noting the growth their children experience under her care. For Stacy, excellence means supporting both the child and their family, emphasizing the importance of relationships in education.
Her program focuses on learning through play and nature, inspiring curiosity, critical thinking, and resilience. With themes like “Math Monday” and “Artsy Thursday,” Stacy balances structured learning with child-led exploration. Her ability to multitask and adapt is key to her success in the dynamic family child care setting.
Stacy's dedication, compassion, and ingenuity make her an invaluable asset to the Delaware early childhood community. As she says, “My work is not a job, it’s a lifestyle, and that’s why it’s so easy to connect with my little learners and my families".
Links:
Little Bit of Sunshine Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/LittleBitOfSunshineDaycareAndPreschool
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