Provider’s Biography
I have always had an interest in child care. From the age of 12, I was babysitting. I started my career off with a 2 month old boy. Little did I know that I would be with that family for 14 years. They had 4 children in that time, 3 boys and 1 girl. I was a date night sitter and a full time nanny in the summer. I also stayed with them on weekends while parents went on vacation. They even stayed at my house once I was married. A few years later, I took in a 1 year old boy for a little over a year. Most of my experience comes from being a mother myself. I am a mom of 2 boys and have been married for over 10 years.
Story behind Think Big Family Child Care
Even though I enjoy and cherish being home with my kids, I felt that I needed a higher purpose than just being the one that does the laundry, cooking and cleaning. Since I am home anyway, have an entrepreneur spirit, love to teach and have the space, opening a home daycare seemed to be the perfect thing to do. I could provide a valuable service to working families, help contribute financially to the household, and still be home with my children.
Philosophy My philosophy is based upon the respect for children, their cultural background, developmental level, natural curiosity, and learning styles. I believe children learn best through play. Although this is not a preschool, I do pull activities from several different preschool curriculum to work on each week. Our basement is dedicated to the daycare with age appropriate toys and activities such as blocks, pretend play, large muscle activity, games and more! We also spend time at the table doing manipulatives, worksheets, puzzles, play dough and more!! All these options are offered daily along with planned activities. I will support your child in a safe, nurturing environment that promotes positive self-image, independence, self-confidence and healthy living skills. I strive to provide children with the opportunities to participate in their environment with their whole beings. My goal is to foster each child’s natural urge to grow, discover and challenge him/herself. I will partner with parents to be an influential part of your child's life to help each child reach their full potential. I believe that quality, family child care is beneficial to children. It offers a warm home atmosphere, small playgroups, individual care, single provider care gives the children security. Parents need to feel comfortable, informed, secure and involved in the care their child is receiving. The atmosphere in my home is warm, calm and stimulating. Think Big Family Child Care is designed to promote the safety and well being of the children at their various stages of development. I value each child as an individual and work to provide an environment and experiences that encourage exploration, discovery and invention. Children are always learning about themselves and their world, whether snuggling in a lap, playing in the sandbox, listening to a story, engaging in dramatic play, painting, running or climbing. Every experience provides an opportunity for children to identify and express their feelings, assert themselves, listen to others, negotiate and resolve conflicts. I pay special attention to building self-esteem, promoting social relationships and maintaining healthy emotional health. All this will help as they grow into an academic environment.
Mission Statement The Mission of Think Big Family Child Care is: To provide the highest quality care in a safe and welcoming environment. To provide families with a support in which to raise their young children. To educate ourselves and one another in the many ways in which we are both similar and different, such as our culture, ethnicity, race, talents and values. To build each child's self-esteem, develop strong social skills and maintain healthy emotional health.
What we have to offer: We have dedicated our basement to the daycare. While we spend time down there playing, we do use the main level as well for table time, eating and occasional movie time. We have lots of space for each child. We have a great eating area where we enjoy family style meals as well as comfortable nap areas. We have a large fenced backyard for running around as well as a play area with swings, slides and sandbox. A large quiet cul de sac is perfect for riding bikes, scooters or playing a game of kickball!! I'm always adding new things to play with and changing things out so it's exciting!! Since a healthy well balanced diet is an important part of child development, I pride myself on serving high quality meals and snacks. I serve hormone free 2% milk to all children 1 year or older and Kirkland brand formula for infants along with infant food and cereal. I serve fresh fruits and vegetables, no filler and nitrate free meats, whole grain breads and cereals and limit sugar to special occasions and try and avoid High Fructose Corn Syrup.
FOREVER IN MY HEART
Although I'm not their mother,I care for them each day.
I cuddle, sing, and read to them and watch them as they play.
I see each new accomplishment,I help them grow and learn.
I understand their language, I listen with concern.
They come to me for comfort,and I kiss away their tears.
They proudly show their work to me, I give the loudest cheers!
No, I am not their mother,but my role is just as strong.
I nurture them and keep them safe,though maybe not for long.
I know someday the time will come when we will have to part,
but I know each child I cared for,
IS FOREVER IN MY HEART!!
Behold, children are a heritage from the Lord,
The fruit of the womb is a reward.
Psalm 127:3
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