WHO WE ARE
Whole Child Happenings of Baldwin County is dedicated to nurturing the growth and development of children and families through meaningful educational experiences, community connections, and enriching opportunities. We believe in the power of play, creativity,
and discovery to help children learn, grow, and thrive.
Whole Child Happenings began in 2024 as an outlet for children and families to foster relationships through healthy outdoor play, recreation, and shared experiences. As the vision grew, so did it's purpose.
Whole Child Happenings of Baldwin County was established as a nonprofit , expending its reach to include educational opportunities, family resources, and broader community initiatives.
At the heart of who we are is a desire to see all children thrive.
We welcome families from public, private, and homeschool communities, with the shared belief that every child deserves the opportunity learn, connect, discover, and thrive.
Our community outreach extends this mission by sharing educational literature and resources with local schools and organizations throughout our community.
OUR MISSION
Nurturing children and bringing connections among families and children
through engaging events and programs.
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Sherilynn Denton - Founder & Director
Sherilynn Denton founded Whole Child Happenings of Baldwin County from a desire to create meaningful opportunities that support children as whole individuals through what she refers to as the
3 E's Philosophy.
• Emotional • Education • Enrichment.
The order is intentional.
Her belief is that we begin with the emotional child--creating opportunities to feel seen, understood, safe, and confident. From that foundation, learning can grow. Enrichment opens the door to curiosity, creativity, new interest, and meaningful experiences.
First we nurture.
Then we teach.
Then we help them discover.
Her approach has been shaped by years of independent research, observation, and firsthand experience with how children learn, grow, and thrive.
She has created children's books and educational resources, while advocating for thoughtful opportunities that support healthy child development.
Jennifer Fellicelli, PhD.- Board of Directors
Educational Enrichment Specialist
​ Jennifer's involvement with Whole Child Happenings of Baldwin County is a natural extension of her longtime work with children and families.
She has taught French, Spanish, and English as a second language, provided music instruction, and coached youth sports. Her community involvement has also included work with Baldwin Youth Services and the South Baldwin Literacy Council.
Jennifer has been involved with Whole Child Happenings of Baldwin County since it's early development, assisting with organizational and registrations.
Her continued role will be helping with administrative & compliances,
as well as an Educational & enrichment instructor.
She holds a special interest in creating resources for families through the development of an extensive resource guide connecting community with a variety of services throughout our area. Jennifer Fellicelli was a great asset providing musical enrichments to our recent GrowthPod academy.
Meet our Educational Enrichment Specialists
-Hattie Keyser-Occupational Therapist
Hattie graduated from the University of Alabama with her bachelor's degree in speech and hearing before earning her doctorate in Occupational Therapy (OTD) from South Alabama. She brings an occupational therapy perspective to
hands-on-enrichment experiences that support children's everyday skills, confidence, and participation. She understands the importance of promoting wellbeing for all children and creating environments where everyone can thrive.
April Jones~Teacher
April Jones is a passionate art educator with 16 years of experience across Alabama, and even Maui Hawaii.
She graduated from Troy University with a B.S. in P-12 Art Education.
Beyond the traditional classroom, she has also taught in museums, art centers, and a variety of after-school programs. As a Mother of two, A Girl Scout Troup Leader, and a member of the Alabama Art Education Association, her life revolves around community, leadership, and creativity.
Child Safety & Background Screening
