We cannot say enough about Diane's Early Care and Education, the daycare center that has played…read moresuch a crucial role in our children's lives. Our daughter, who was recently diagnosed with stage 4 cancer, and our son have both attended Diane's for several years.
We were first referred to Diane's through a close friend, about six weeks after our daughter was born, when we realized that our original plan of hiring a nanny was no longer an option. When I first spoke with Diane, she was candid and honest--she told me she was already at capacity and couldn't take on another child, let alone an infant. Though disappointed, I appreciated her transparency, and we ended the conversation on a positive note, knowing we had to keep searching.
But just when I thought we were back to square one and panicking, Diane called me back. After speaking with her staff and reviewing the full-time and part-time schedules, she believed she could make it work for the days we needed care. Upon meeting the staff, we knew we had been incredibly fortunate to find a place like this--one we didn't even realize we needed at the time.
Fast forward three years, and we have gained so much more than a daycare. We now have over 15 new "teachers" in our lives, including "Mrs. Diane"--who is revered with respect, "Grandpa" Randy, Mrs. Angie--the wise and experienced teacher, Katie--the "Chief," and Mrs. Sabrina--the dedicated apprentice. Our son met his best friend at Diane's, and they now attend charter school together. Randy isn't just "Grandpa" to the kids--he's their T-ball coach, bus driver, gardener, handyman, and so much more.
Our children have grown up before our eyes at Diane's, spending the majority of their lives in a place that feels like a second home. We've also built a community of friends--parents and children alike--who are now at the heart of this journey of raising kids.
As a working mother, I never struggled with the "mom guilt" that many women experience, because I knew my children were receiving the care, love, and support they needed.
Now, three months into our daughter's unexpected cancer diagnosis, I feel compelled to share just how much this daycare community means to us. The outpouring of love and support for our family during this difficult time has been beyond words. Other parents have stepped in to help, understanding that in these early years, a child's care is all-consuming.
We cannot thank Diane, Randy, and the entire team enough for their compassion, generosity, and unwavering support.
When our little girl is healed and healthy, she will undoubtedly be thrilled to return to her pre-cancer routine--back at Diane's, where she has grown, learned, and thrived among the teachers, friends, and family we are so deeply grateful for.
Needless to say, I highly recommend Diane's Early Care and Education