At Children’s Discovery Center, some of the most meaningful lessons begin with a simple observation. Those lessons are made possible because of two things. 

A curious student takes note of one of the mysteries of our universe – a bird building a nest, a leaf changing color or a shadow taking shape, to name a few favorites. Next, a caring teacher spots that curiosity, so an exciting adventure can take shape! 

That ability to spot a child’s curiosity is an important part of the Reggio Emilia teacher role, and it’s something Ms. Felicia Groves has embraced throughout her five years at CDC. 

Growing Alongside Her Students

Long before becoming a Toledo preschool teacher, Ms. Felicia knew she enjoyed working with children. She began babysitting at just 12 years old and completed her schooling at Bedford Academy.

Today, one of her favorite parts of teaching is simple: “It’s watching the kids grow up.”

At CDC, that growth happens in countless ways. Children may build confidence by trying something for the first time, develop a new interest or take a classroom investigation in a direction no one expected. Rather than having every answer mapped out in advance, Reggio Emilia teachers like Ms. Felicia pay attention to those moments and help children explore where their curiosity leads.

If you ask her, some of her favorite classroom memories have come from exactly that kind of exploration.

Following Curiosity Wherever It Leads

One project that stands out to Ms. Felicia in particular grew out of her students’ study of entomology, one of our previously featured projects! 

This interest led to investigations involving worms and butterflies, including a butterfly release and opportunities to create fluttering friends of their own using natural materials. (You can read more about all the buggy fun here.)

Projects like this are part of what makes the Reggio Emilia approach so special. A subject that begins with one question can grow into opportunities to explore science, art, nature and creative expression, all based on a child’s genuine interests.

That process is collaborative for teachers, too. And that’s one thing this educator loves most about her community.

Ms. Felicia says she appreciates how members of the CDC community open up to one another, share ideas and discuss new projects. Those conversations don’t always happen during a formal meeting or scheduled planning session.

Instead, as she puts it, “It happens organically throughout the day.”

That all-for-one attitude helps teachers continue discovering new ways to encourage their students and each other.

Creativity Beyond the Classroom

While she’s always coming up with exciting ideas and new ways to discover the world at CDC, Ms. Felicia’s creative streak doesn’t end when the school day does.

In her free time, she enjoys arts and crafts, painting, coloring and making clay magnets. She also loves animals and has quite the crew at home, including three dogs, two cats, two frogs and even a curly-haired tarantula!

Whether she’s guiding students, caring for pets or cheering on her fellow teachers, Ms. Felicia shows up in her life, and her personal motto reflects the care and respect she brings to every being around her:

“Give what you want in return: love, respect, loyalty.”

This philosophy fits naturally within a learning community.

So, after five years with CDC (and recognition as Employee of the Month twice), Ms. Felicia continues to find joy in helping young learners discover just how capable they are. We’re grateful she’s found a home here and love growing right alongside her and her students.

Discover the CDC Difference

For more than 40 years, Children’s Discovery Center has helped children throughout the Toledo area learn through curiosity, creativity and meaningful relationships. From infant care and preschool to kindergarten Discovery School, our early childhood educators are ready to help your family succeed. Contact us to learn more about our programs or schedule a tour of one of our Toledo-area centers.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the role of the teacher in Reggio Emilia?

In the Reggio Emilia approach, teachers serve as guides, observers and partners in learning. Rather than directing every part of a lesson, they pay close attention to children’s questions and interests, then provide materials, experiences and encouragement that help them investigate those ideas more deeply.

How does the Reggio Emilia approach work at Children’s Discovery Center?

CDC’s Reggio Emilia-inspired classrooms encourage children to take an active role in learning through hands-on exploration, creativity and collaboration. Teachers observe children’s interests and help those interests develop into projects that can incorporate subjects such as science, art, language, movement and more.

What should families look for in a Toledo preschool teacher?

A strong early childhood teacher should create an environment where children feel safe, supported and comfortable exploring. At CDC, teachers also encourage curiosity, build meaningful relationships with children and families and help students become increasingly confident and independent learners.