EAST HYDE PARK
INFANT-TODDLER TEAM
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SPARKLE JENKENS - TEACHER
Hello! My name is Sparkle Jenkins. I've been working with children for 6 years. I'm currently pursuing my BA in Early Childhood Development at Ashford University. I obtained my CDA in 2017. As a teacher I believe I am responsible for providing infants, toddlers and young children a safe, nurturing environment where they can have positive learning experiences. I strive to model respect for children as well as their parents. Respect for children as well as parents is important for the child to have a great learning experience. Children are motivated to learn when they have opportunities to make choices in an environment that is enriching and stimulating. I believe children learn best through play. They learn through all their senses by tasting, touching, seeing, hearing and smelling. By watching and imitating people close to them, they learn language and behavior. This is why it is important to model the behavior you want the children to display.
LONDON CASON - ASSISTANT TEACHER (EAST INFANTS/TODDLERS)
Hello, my name is London Cason, and I am an Assistant Teacher for Infants/Toddlers! I recently graduated from National Louis University with a B.A. in Applied Educational Studies. However, one day I plan to go back to receive my B.A. in Special Education. Why Special Education? Because it has been a dream of mine to work with children with special needs, especially deaf/hard-of-hearing children. My disability is a big inspiration for that. I am hard of hearing myself, which sets me apart from the Little Inspiration staff in a big way! However, I don’t let my disability stop me from reaching my goals. Working with young children gives me such a high as an educator because every day is new. Every day I see growth in every child, and that growth is always celebrated in their learning. I choose to teach because of the simple fact that I want to help. I want to help grow their little minds and as well as grow within themselves. You will be surprised at how much growth happens within a month of an infant’s or toddler’s life! When I am not working, I am a daughter, big sister, aunt, and friend who loves to read, write, and just live life with a smile 😊
TINY TURTLES (Toddlers)
PLAYFUL PANDAS (Infants)
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SPARKLE JENKENS - TEACHER
Hello! My name is Sparkle Jenkins. I've been working with children for 6 years. I'm currently pursuing my BA in Early Childhood Development at Ashford University. I obtained my CDA in 2017. As a teacher I believe I am responsible for providing infants, toddlers and young children a safe, nurturing environment where they can have positive learning experiences. I strive to model respect for children as well as their parents. Respect for children as well as parents is important for the child to have a great learning experience. Children are motivated to learn when they have opportunities to make choices in an environment that is enriching and stimulating. I believe children learn best through play. They learn through all their senses by tasting, touching, seeing, hearing and smelling. By watching and imitating people close to them, they learn language and behavior. This is why it is important to model the behavior you want the children to display.
​JAMEELAH HARBIN- ASSISSTANT TEACHER
Hello, my name is Jameelah Harbin, and I am thrilled to join The Little Inspirations family! I have a deep passion for working with children and supporting their growth and development during these crucial early years. I am currently a sophomore at Southern Illinois university Edwardsville. I am pursuing a degree in business management. I have been in early childhood education for over two years. Teaching and caring for young children is truly a passion of mine because I believe the early years are foundational for fostering curiosity, creativity, and confidence. I strive to create a warm, supportive, and fun environment where every child can feel safe and inspired to grow as we work together to make their time here a positive and enriching experience.Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with my family and or friends. In my free time, you can often find me exploring the city, traveling or going to museums . I’m always looking for creative ways to bring my interests into the classroom to make learning even more engaging for the children. I’m looking forward to meeting all of you and working together to make this a wonderful experience for your little ones!
TINY TURTLES (Toddlers)
DELESHA SMITH - TEACHER
Hi, I’m Delesha! I’m working on my associate's degree at a community college and excited about everything I’m learning. I think teaching is all about helping little ones get a good start, and being there to support their learning and growth in a fun and positive way.
I have two sisters and two brothers, so there’s never a dull moment in my family. In my free time, I love making TikToks, shopping, doing hair, getting my nails done, and going on road trips. I’m also super into basketball, whether I’m playing or just watching a good game. I love staying busy and doing things that make me happy.
DAYANA JOHNSON - ASSISTANT TEACHER (SHE/HER) Hello everyone, Some things to know about me are, I’m the oldest sibling of 2, and I’ve lived in Chicago my whole life. Another thing is that I love traveling, I have been traveling since I was little. A few of my favorite places I’ve been to so far would have to be Aruba, Mexico and the Dominican Republic. I’m still trying to figure out what I want to do in life but growing up I’ve always enjoyed working with children. As a teen, I would participate in summer programs that allowed me to work as an early childhood teacher assistant/helper as well as a summer camp counselor working with kids of all ages. I even enjoy helping out with my own family like my younger cousins. I love the idea of being a part of a community that helps inspire and shape children to be their best selves! I’m excited to learn more about working with children and further my journey in early childhood!