Hummingbird Daycare is owned and operated by Gabe Slavin. She received a BS in Environmental Education, an M. Ed. in Creative Arts and Learning, and an MA in Counseling Psychology. Gabe has also studied the Danish Folk School model, Appalachian mountain handy-crafts, folk music, storytelling and dance at the John C. Campbell Folk School and is trained in Authentic Movement, and Sandtray Therapy. Gabe has worked with children, adolescents and young adults as an educator, art instructor, counselor and child-care giver in a variety of settings which have included camps, a parent-run school, educational farm centers, public schools, mental health centers and privately in her home.

Combining her love of creativity, nature, experiential education, the arts, human development and homesteading skills, she has created an innovative and unique daycare program for young children.

 
Teaching Intern: Emma Good

Emma Good is a former Hampshire College student, now attending University of Massachusetts to receive her certification in early childhood and elementary education. Previously, she has worked as an elementary school tutor, a volunteer at a hospital children’s center, and as a preschool assistant teacher. An avid founding member and organizer of the Hampshire College Circus, a.k.a “Circus Folk Unite!”, Emma is studying a number of forms of alternative education, including education through movement and experiential education, which she often ties into her work with the circus. She is also enthusiastic about multicultural education, drawing from her knowledge of the Spanish language and American Sign Language. Emma is thrilled for the opportunity to be working with Gabe, the children, and the parents at Hummingbird.