Stephanie, Ken, Piper Hooten & Tallulah

 I began my career in 1991 and have dedicated my entire adult life to working with children. I hold an A.A. in Early Childhood Education from Los Angeles Mission College and a B.A. in Psychology from Sonoma State University, graduating with honors.  While earning my degrees, I worked in campus children’s schools under the guidance of Master Teachers.

My career includes teaching preschool at the Santa Rosa Jewish Community Center and being selected by the Bureau of Jewish Education for a professional exchange in Israel with Early Childhood Educators and nine rewarding years working with children with special needs before opening my own program in 2007.

Since then, I have built a high-quality program recognized with a Five-Star Rating through Ventura County’s Rising Stars (QRIS) and have served on the board of the Ventura County Child Care Association. I’ve collaborated with WestEd to create training modules for licensed family child care providers and serve as a peer mentor through the Child Care Providers United Training Consortium, helping other providers thrive in business.

Every day with children brings joy, curiosity, and discovery. The most rewarding part of my work is not only being part of their growth, but also building strong connections with parents. I believe that when families and caregivers work together, children thrive. Providing extraordinary care and support for families is at the heart of everything I do.

Half-Sister to Tallulah, Piper Hooten was born in March of 2021.  A difficult start, as her Mom, Hootie passed the day she was born.  Hand-raised and nurtured by the best she is an energetic, affectionate puppy.  She too is the best fit for our family.  Both she and her sister continue training, recently beginning agility, in addition to ongoing obedience.