My background and education is in Elementary Education and Library Science. I taught briefly, managed a bookstore for nearly 4 years, raised 4 children, took a temporary sub position as a school librarian, then worked in day care for a while. Through it all, I realized there was a real need for a retail source for classroom supplies in the Butler area.
For 15 years, I owned a retail store that we called The Thinking Cap. It was stacked to the ceiling with everything a teacher could want for their classroom, as well as some wonderful, classic, specialty toys and games … lots & lots of games! My goal was to nurture a love for learning as well as creativity in teachers, parents, & children.
About 12 years ago, I met a fellow store owner who was running a program for schools that involved parents and revolved around playing games to sharpen students’ skills. I was completely captivated by the idea! And with her approval & guidance, the Family Game Night program was introduced to the Butler area. Since then I’ve tweaked the program to make it my own and it has grown far beyond my expectations!
We’ve co-hosted Family Game Nights with schools throughout Western PA and into OH (& including a guest appearance at a school in NC!) This year (2011) I decided that I wanted to be free to visit my children & grandchildren … a freedom that most small business people do not (& cannot) have. And so, I retired from & closed the brick & mortar store, but decided to keep the Family Game Night Program that I love so much.
Accompanying me on these Family Game Nights are a couple of my best game players … Ann, mother of 5 and Grandmother to 5, and/or Beth, mother of 3 and former teacher. Together we are committed to bringing you a stress-free evening of learning and fun!
For 15 years, I owned a retail store that we called The Thinking Cap. It was stacked to the ceiling with everything a teacher could want for their classroom, as well as some wonderful, classic, specialty toys and games … lots & lots of games! My goal was to nurture a love for learning as well as creativity in teachers, parents, & children.
About 12 years ago, I met a fellow store owner who was running a program for schools that involved parents and revolved around playing games to sharpen students’ skills. I was completely captivated by the idea! And with her approval & guidance, the Family Game Night program was introduced to the Butler area. Since then I’ve tweaked the program to make it my own and it has grown far beyond my expectations!
We’ve co-hosted Family Game Nights with schools throughout Western PA and into OH (& including a guest appearance at a school in NC!) This year (2011) I decided that I wanted to be free to visit my children & grandchildren … a freedom that most small business people do not (& cannot) have. And so, I retired from & closed the brick & mortar store, but decided to keep the Family Game Night Program that I love so much.
Accompanying me on these Family Game Nights are a couple of my best game players … Ann, mother of 5 and Grandmother to 5, and/or Beth, mother of 3 and former teacher. Together we are committed to bringing you a stress-free evening of learning and fun!