About me

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My name is Wendi. I am the owner and primary caregiver at Auntie Wendi's Day Care in Santa Cruz, California.  I started an in-home day care to pursue my passion for teaching and guiding young children.  After graduating from San Jose State University (degree in elementary education),  I realized that instructing children in academics is important but is only one aspect of a child's critical development. Structure, manners, respect for others, playing, laughing, and social skills are just as vital for a child to grow.  That's the way I was raised, and that's what I want to pass down.  I started Auntie Wendi's Day Care because I love children.  I want to make a difference in their lives.  I find tremendous satisfaction in helping them in their development. 

I named my Day Care "Auntie Wendi's" because of the role that aunts often play in families.  They teach more than letters and numbers.  Aunts help to teach life lessons.  They guide and reinforce positive aspects of living well and right.  Aunts get to spoil, yet help to teach the ways of the world.  With the children in my care, I assist with their scholastic *and* social development.  My parents both worked when I was a child and I feel fortunate to have spent time in a nurturing Day Care.  It was a positive environment and I felt a lot of comfort there.  Given this experience, I appreciate the opportunity I have to constructively influence children.  

To me, it's more than just watching them.  

It's helping them grow.

I believe that positive reinforcement is important for children to develop self-esteem. Children need an environment that supports free expression and stimulates learning. Most importantly, however, I believe that children need to have fun! At Auntie Wendi's, we often have parties, movie days, and play lots of exciting games.

My home in Santa Cruz is well maintained and a safe environment for your children.  There is plenty of indoor and outdoor space for them to play, laugh, and learn.  I have a playroom and a very spacious fenced back yard with toys and sports equipment.  Exercise of the mind and body is reinforced with frequent walks/hikes. 

I recognize the importance of work, and the stress and demands placed on parents.  I strive to make it easier on parents by giving them the confidence that their children are in good hands.  I work closely with parents on any special issues they identify with their children and am always happy to talk.

 I am certified in First Aid and CPR and trained in Health and Nutrition.