to provide quality, loving childcare and early learning in a safe, clean and comfortable environment that facilitates self-esteem, fosters whole-child development and honors diversity.

Encourage each child to make choices, with respect towards him/herself, others and his/her surroundings - leading to development of self esteem, self reliance and self confidence. 

Nourish each child’s heart and mind, facilitating cognitive, social, emotional and physical skills, so that each child will be a well-rounded person capable of solving problems and adapting to new situations.

Be a continually-growing resource for my childcare families, who each have unique strengths, needs and objectives.

I (Julia) believe that I am part of a "team" with parents -- who are the "experts" on their own children -- and that I am a conduit to resources for my families.               

My childcare program is consistent (not to be confused with "rigid") and carefully organized with designated learning, nap, meal and free-play times.  I believe that basic scheduling gives children a sense of control and trust in their world.  I use a balance of child-initiated and teacher-guided activities, so that the children are able to develop creativity and social bonds, as well as necessary academic preparation for school: When the primary emphasis is on socio-emotional concepts, children naturally move toward academic opportunities.  Children in my care learn through plenty of sensory exploration, concept-relationship awareness, and guidance that helps them realize cause and effect of their choices.  I teach by example, in my words and actions.  Empathy, compassion and creativity are at the root of my behavior regulation methods; as a result, I see very few behavior issues.  I use a philosophy that recognizes and rewards acceptable/exceptional efforts, and keeps communication and attitudes positive.  I believe that self-esteem, trust and empathy are paramount to develop in the toddler and preschool years; and such traits result from bonds and modeling behaviors of children's primary caregivers.  Above all, I believe that a child's "job" is to play, and that guided play is integral for healthy bonding, socialization, creativity, relationship/concept awareness and cognitive development; thus, every day includes plenty of goofy singing, dancing and game-playing.  

1. Every child is born "perfect."

2. Each child in this childcare will feel special, lovable, capable, secure, validated and welcomed.

3. Positive reinforcement starts with full acceptance and appreciation of the whole person; it begins with the child's reflection in the caretaker's eyes.   

4. Guide through "loving regulation."  "Punishment" is never appropriate in an early learning environment.

5. Behaviors and children are mutually exclusive; every child wants to do well.

6. Feelings are always valid.  Expression of feelings can cause misunderstandings, and children need to be guided to and shown appropriate expressions.

7. Every mistake can be corrected, forgiven and forgotten.

8. For every correction, there should be ten positive reinforcements given (over the course of an average day).  Examples of positive reinforcement: verbal praise, encouragement, acknowledgement, a smile, a wink, high-five, hug, group cheer, sticker, award.