Logan County Head Start staff members took the opportunity Friday, April 21, to refresh and rejuvenate as the school year winds down during an annual staff Wellness Day hosted by the agency.
Preschool educators from Head Start classrooms at Union Station and Benjamin Logan, along with a home-based educator and a family advocate, enjoyed time together at Nana’s Creations & More/JamSum Brands, 123 W. Columbus Ave., Bellefontaine.
Nana’s Creations owner Michelle Sparks led the educators through the steps of candle-making, while participants enjoyed snacks and the chance to catch up outside of the classroom. Each of the candles were personalized with the staff members’ names.
“It’s a great team-building activity getting to work together, and just to take the chance to decompress a little at this busy time of year,” said Heather Ryzner-Meredith, a Head Start home educator.
Sparks, who moved her business into the space about a month ago alongside Jam Sum Brands owner Michelle Suman, is a grandparent to former preschool students in the Head Start program. She said she has gotten to know the preschool staff over the last 30 years being in the community.
“I was looking forward to having them here today to treat them to a day of relaxation and fun. They are so dedicated and pour so much of their time and energy into our little ones and deserve a day to relax.”
Following the candle-making, the staff also set out on shopping adventures in downtown Bellefontaine.
Head Start head teacher Christina Neill said the Wellness Day is offered for employees each year, alternating between local activities and regional activities. They were enthusiastic about supporting a past grandparent’s newly opened business this year.
Neill noted that Head Start is currently enrolling for 2023-24 school year, and is hiring new staff. Parents and guardians can call (937) 216-9370 or visit www.corsp.org. Full-year programs also are available that run during the summertime as well.
Sparks is excited to be in the downtown space alongside Suman, offering a variety of homemade candles, wax tarts, sugar scrubs and rustic decor. She is also looking forward to hosting similar events for groups and for special occasions, such as baby showers, bridal showers and birthday parties.
At Nana’s Creations, a Mother/Daughter workshop is approaching from 2 to 4 p.m. Saturday, May 13, where participants can enjoy a mini photo shoot and an afternoon of making a photo frame together and candle-making. Tickets must be purchased in advance at www.eventbrite.com.