Date Approved

12-5-2025

Graduate Degree Type

Project

Degree Name

Education-Instruction and Curriculum: Early Childhood Education (M.Ed.)

Degree Program

College of Education

First Advisor

Dr. Kathryn Ohle

Academic Year

2025/2026

Abstract

Many young children exhibit challenging behavior in early childhood settings, often as a response to high levels of stress in their home and community environments. This applied master’s project presents Welcoming Spaces, a parent-led initiative developed to support children’s emotional development, caregiver well-being, and early literacy through informal, community-based experiences. In response to concerns about rising dysregulation and reduced access to supportive environments, the project offers portable play areas hosted by parents at events such as school functions, library gatherings, and local festivals. These spaces include calming sensory activities and opportunities for shared reading, while also providing caregivers with tools to foster connection and mutual support. The project includes three main components: a Facilitator Toolkit, a Parent Handbook, and optional reflection tools, all co-developed with input from local families. Designed to be flexible, low-cost, and inclusive, the materials were implemented in collaboration with early childhood networks in Northwest Lower Michigan. Although no formal data were collected, informal feedback from participants guided improvements to the project design. Ultimately, Welcoming Spaces aims to bridge research and practice by equipping families with simple, relational strategies that promote positive experiences for both children and adults.

Comments

I would like to express my deepest gratitude to my family and colleagues for their unwavering support throughout this journey. Your encouragement, love, and belief in me have carried me through every challenge. A special thank you to James and Mira—your cheering, patience, and presence have meant the world to me. I could not have done this without you.

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