I am a former kindergarten teacher, a mother of three young children, and a passionate advocate of all things early childhood education. I hold a B.S. in Early Childhood Education from the Pennsylvania State University (WE ARE!) and in addition to kindergarten, have also taught preK and fourth grade.

Who is Elise?

After living and teaching in Savannah, GA for seven years, I returned to my Pennsylvania roots. I currently live and work in State College, caring for my young children and several other littles. When I’m not teaching or parenting, I’m reading or cooking. Or napping, but that’s really just a season-of-life hobby. 


Currently, I teach a tiny little in-home school affectionately known as The School of Elise. I have my own two little boys (my oldest is in first grade at our neighborhood school) and a handful of other toddlers and preschoolers. I created Sunshine and Storytime as a way of sharing what we are doing in my home and school life, so that I can advocate for what young children really need.

In a world of increasing screen time and jam-packed schedules, I am here to provide guidance on giving your children TONS of outdoor time and read aloud time, and music every day. I adore keeping up with current research on what’s really best for our children, so you’ll find lots of that here. (If that’s what you’re specifically seeking head over to the research page.)

I also enjoy sharing all of the learning activities that we do, although they really do some second to the simplicity of spending unstructured time outside and reading everything we can get our hands on. If you’re in need of activities or inspiration to keep you busy with your littles, you’ll find plenty of that here, too!

If you’re struggling to balance your life and give your children what you know they need, you’re not alone. My guess is we are all struggling with similar issues. Please don’t hesitate to reach out to me via social media or my email, elise@sunshineandstorytime.com. I’d love to brainstorm with you!


“My passion in life is helping young children grow, learn, and thrive. Nothing makes me happier than seeing my children or students growing into their incredible, unique potential.”

~Elise, 2022