Eighteen years ago, I began my journey as a part time teacher’s assistant at Children’s Corner in Petaluma. Since I enjoyed childcare so much I decided to apply for a full-time position at You and Me Children’s center. I was hired as the lead teacher in the "two's" room. I wanted to try a new setting, so I found an early head start children’s center in Sausalito. After my experience with head start I decided to try out the Montessori setting. This caused me to find my "home base" at Novato Youth Center. I held many different roles such as: head teacher of the infant and toddler programs, site supervisor, and interim director. During my nine years there, I received an Associates Degree in Social and Behavioral Science,  and my Bachelor's degree in Human Development with a focus on Early Childhood Education. I currently hold a director's teaching permit with the State of California and have three sweet children of my own. During the pandemic, many centers closed which left many families without care. I saw the need for childcare centers in our community, and decided to open my own center. Grow with Me ECE was originally a home childcare, but in 2022 we were lucky enough to find our new home in Cotati!

           I decided to take what I love about a center-based program and warm it with a family feel. Something that was important to me was maintaining an environment where children were free to express themselves. My staff and I attend many online and local training's during the year to further our knowledge and expertise in the field we love. Our Staff are all experienced child educators, all have Early Childhood Education units, as well as having many professional growth hours. 

          Your child is our utmost priority and childcare is our passion! I look forward to growing with your family as we partner to set your child up for success. My team and I value open and honest communication. Honesty and partnership will be essential for your child's success in school for many years to come. With that being said, I am trained in various assessment tools and have resources to offer if concerns or questions about your child's personal development arise. We welcome all forms of communication. Feel free to ask questions or share concerns and we can brainstorm together! We always have your child's best interest at heart. 

 

Leanne Nelmes

Owner and Operator

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