With Open Hearts and Open Minds

22 Years of Joy in Early Childhood Education

For more than 22 years, I’ve had the privilege of walking alongside children and their families in the world of early childhood education. In that time, I’ve learned that the true heart of this work isn’t just about teaching children—it’s about teaching families joy.

I’ve seen again and again that when providers approach children and parents with open hearts and open minds, setting aside rigid expectations, the real magic of growth and learning happens.

Meeting Families Where They Are

Every family arrives with its own story, strengths, and struggles. Some come eager for structure, while others need reassurance. Some children leap into activities, others observe quietly from the edges.

My guiding principle has always been to meet families exactly where they are—never asking them to fit into a predetermined mold.

• The National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) reminds us that family engagement must be reciprocal, with educators honoring the goals and rhythms of each household.

• Research from the Office of Planning, Research and Evaluation (OPRE) shows that when providers empower families to define what success looks like, children thrive with stronger decision-making and resilience.

When we listen without judgment and adjust with compassion, we build trust. And trust is the soil where children and families bloom.

Why Letting Go of Expectations Matters

Development isn’t linear. Milestones are helpful guides, but they should never become burdens.

I’ve seen children “behind” in one area blossom later in their own time. I’ve seen families blossom when they feel safe instead of pressured. Research echoes this:

• High-quality family–child partnerships support stronger emotional, social, and cognitive development in children.

• Studies show that when providers release developmental expectations and instead build responsive relationships, children gain confidence and families feel truly supported.

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By withholding rigid expectations, we give children space to grow authentically, and families permission to be exactly who they are.

How Together We Bloom Lives This Philosophy

At Together We Bloom: Community Learning, we carry these principles into every offering we design.

• Community Events: Our upcoming Bloom & Brew event with Montague Brothers Coffee on October 1st is a perfect example. It’s a free family event where children and grown-ups can explore, create, and connect in ways that feel natural to them—without pressure to perform or participate in a “right” way. Some families will paint, others will plant, and some may simply sit and enjoy the atmosphere. All of it is valid.

• Homeschool Setup Services: We work with families to create learning environments at home that honor their needs and values, instead of forcing a one-size-fits-all model.

• Tutoring: Our tutors focus on encouragement and curiosity, ensuring children feel successful no matter where they’re starting from.

• Home Manager Services: Because supporting families also means easing the weight of daily life, we provide help that allows parents to breathe, reset, and reconnect with their children.

  
  

Every service we offer is rooted in one belief: families grow best when they feel supported, not judged.

22 Years of Trust, Carried Forward

I carry with me every child’s hand I’ve held, every parent’s tear I’ve comforted, and every joyful laugh I’ve shared in classrooms and homes. Those experiences shape the way Together We Bloom shows up today.

We don’t come with expectations. We come with open hearts, open minds, and a commitment to joy.

So whether you join us at Bloom & Brew this October, invite us into your home for a homeschool setup, or connect with us for tutoring or family support—you can know one thing for sure: we will meet you exactly where you are.