Look What’s Happening in Early Childhood with Generosity and Creativity

College of Education, Early Childhood

This week Early Childhood benefited from the generosity of the Rothman Family Foundation Backpack initiative. Anne Ryan demonstrated her creativity on how to make a simple DIY Light Kit for preschoolers.

Rothman Backpacks
It’s Rothman Foundation Day to pass out SPC Backpacks and books to pre-schoolers

Rothman Family Foundation’s Generosity


Once again, the Rothman Family Foundation showed their community support for Early Childhood students and the College of Education.

Early Childhood Ed students received backpacks filled with children’s books provided through a generous donation from the Rothman Family Foundation on October 21st.

The students in the Early Childhood Education Associate and Bachelor programs are working with young children in our community in early childhood centers, pre-schools, early intervention programs, and Head Start centers. The students expressed appreciation for the materials and for the recognition of the wonderful work they do by making videos.

The Rothman Family Foundation has supported this Early Education Initiative for the last six years. Improving literacy among the community’s youngest scholars is one of their many commitments. To sum up, the founders of Kane’s Furniture were highly involved in children’s causes. The Rothmans have donated with their time, advocacy, and philanthropy. Their legacy continues with family members Margie Green and Nancy Wygle.

Most importantly, SPC and the College of Ed take great pride in the Early Childhood programs offered and are grateful for the Rothman family support.

Completed Pre-School Light Kit
Pre-School Light Kit


What You Need for DIY Sensory Light Box


Anne Ryan, Chair in the College of Education, made this pre-school light kit in about 10 minutes. There are many ways to make a pre-school light kit. Simple, inexpensive and hours of fun for a pre-school child!


Under-the-bed style clear/translucent storage box. Try to find a large flat one with a snap-on lid (one that fit under the bed is a good size)

2-3 Sheets of White Tissue Gift-Wrap Paper


Aluminum Foil – lines the inside of the box


Clear Tape – holds tissue to underside of box top


LED puck light OR use a String of LED holiday lights with their own battery pack – if you use a string, you will need to cut a hole to plug in


Gather a variety of translucent play materials. Having a variety of items available will keep this activity interesting and you will find your sensory light table will get a lot of use!

For more information on the Bachelor of Science in Educational Studies with a specialization in Preschool Education or our A.S. or Certificate Programs in Early Childhood, please contact Anne Ryan.