Abstract
This Project is an Alternative Culminating Experience for a Master of Arts in Education: Curriculum and Instruction. A personal journey of developing as an early childhood education is documented in this study. The path of study included research of No Child Left Behind, full day kindergarten, Common Core Standards, thematic units, student motivation and online resources. The study process confirmed the value in teaching with a thematic approach. Students are more interested, engaged and teachers are able to teach science standards through other subject areas.