About me:

Welcome to Ave Maria Childcare.  I would like to take this opportunity to introduce myself.  My name is Crystal and I am a proud parent of 4 children, ages 7,6,4 and 1.  I have been married to my husband, Rob, for 9 years and we are members of the St. Robert Bellarmine Parish. 

I am a state licensed and insured provider, and am also a part of the Healthy Food Program.  I am certified in CPR and First Aid and absolutely love children!! 

Philosophy:

Ave Maria Childcare is a Catholic based home child care facility, in which I help form the minds of the children, at a young age, while they are still soaking in everything they can.  I accept children of any religious faith, however, each child will be expected to participate in all the activities that we do and will not be allowed to opt out, as that will disrupt the formation and learning of the other children.  

I believe that children learn best while doing things that they like to do.  That is why I have a structured day that will include activities, play time, nap time and prayer time.  That is also why there will be a limited amount of t.v. 

The children will be able to play outside in my fenced in backyard (weather permitting) and will also have plenty of free play time to interact with the other children. This will enable them to learn concepts like sharing, using their imagination and how to get along with other kids. 

I will also start off each morning with a short prayer that the kids will participate in.  We will say the “Bless us O’ Lord” before breakfast and lunch, and end the day with a prayer as well.  I will help them learn the main prayers of our Faith like the Our Father, the Hail Mary, and the Glory Be. 

Experience:

Because I am a mother of 4 children, I feel that I have the ability to be able to run a home daycare in a loving and happy way.  I have taken a class at Boystown on Parenting along with incorporating the philosophies of the book "Love and Logic".  I also read books by Dr. Ray Guarendi.

Early learning program:

I have incorporated a early learning program that will be structured and pre-planned.  I will use all types of learning including hands on, reading, audio/visual, play and repetition.

Policies:

I have a printed handbook that I give out to all new parents that answers most questions, including fees, vacations, sick policy etc.  I also have required forms that will be used before a child is enrolled.

If you have any questions or would like to set up an interview, please call me at (402)708-5780 or e-mail me at avemariachildcare@yahoo.com

 Additional information:

Although I have a Catholic based home daycare, I do not discriminate against any particular religion.  However, all children in my care will be expected to participate in all the activities, including the prayers and activities that will revolve around Catholic teachings ie. Saints, Holy Days, Mary etc.