Thank you for visiting Sweetgum Learning Center!

My name is Carrin Ketchum and I am excited to share my love of learning with you and your children. I am a Missouri-certified teacher who has spent nearly two decades educating children in private, nonprofit, and public schools and organizations. I hold undergraduate degrees in Early Childhood Education and Child Development and a Master's degree specializing in teaching Reading.

About Sweetgum Learning Center LLC

Our approach to early childhood education is inspired by the beautiful student-centered Reggio Emilia Philosophy. We view children as fully capable and empowered to explore their interests. Children develop a strong sense of well-being when they have the freedom and right to make choices about their learning. We embrace what is referred to as the 100 Languages of Children and the idea that children learn and communicate in varied styles and through different experiences and materials. All learning domains are addressed to celebrate each child’s unique perspective on constructing understanding.

We view the environment as the third teacher; our educators understand each child's interests and create an environment that moves their learning forward. This carefully curated environment is where students develop connections, exploration, problem-solving, thinking, wonder, creativity, and imagination. Teachers are always seeking to develop our practice and offer rich experiences to students through documenting and supporting learning.

The core of this philosophy is a partnership with children, families, and the community to provide an inquiry-based education for young learners. Teachers and children work together to co-construct a learning experience through observation, intentional planning, creative environments, and active exploration of materials and supplies. Our goal is for each student to emerge as a socially capable, creative citizen who loves learning.