The symbol of the military child, dandelions bloom everywhere —and Dandelions Education Consulting and Tutoring helps military children do just that.
A Military wife and mother, Lauren Yates founded Dandelions back in April as a way to help military children and their families get plugged into the community through learning.
She met Kelly Fagan of Dream Catcher Yoga and Mindful Learning Studio, and according to Lauren, they immediately bonded over their soft spot for inclusive learning and working with children with autism.
Dandelions Education Consulting and Tutoring offers literacy classes at Dream Catcher Yoga and Mindful Learning Studio in Southern Pines for all types of learners.
She hosts Storytime Adventures once a month where kids can participate in hands-on activities that correlate with reading, a Book Babes song and story time class for tiny humans ages 0-3, and an intimate tutoring group called Dandy Reads book club. Oh, and she’s also been known to host pop-up story times.
Lauren hopes that her classes instill a lifelong love of reading and learning among children by using songs and hands-on activities and creativity to make learning fun.
Lauren holds bachelor’s degree in elementary education and a master’s degree in reading, and offers informational parent classes on topics like literacy development, autism and dyslexia. As a former teacher with experience working with children with autism, she hopes to serve as a resource in the community for teachers and parents.
In addition to classes, Lauren works with Dream Catcher Studio to host events for for children who are sensory sensitive. Dandelions is cohosting a sensory-friendly Fall Festival event on Oct. 30 that features silent trick-or-treating and a social story charts so that participants are aware and prepared for the activities happening throughout the evening.
“We really want focus on the importance of inclusion and making every child feel welcome and comfortable,” Lauren said.
Although the military child inspired Dandelions Education Consulting and Tutoring, Lauren welcomes all children and their parents — regardless of military affiliation. Check them out on Facebook to learn more, or reach out to Lauren through email at dandelionsdc@gmail.com.
