Forest Friends

Our Teachers

Julie Moutafidis, Owner/Operator

Julie is a long-time northern Nevada resident, having called the area home for over 50 years. She is married, with five adult children and eight grandchildren. With more than 15 years of experience as a licensed childcare provider and preschool teacher, she also holds a Bachelor of Science in Human Services Management.

What she loves most about owning Forest Friends is the opportunity to play an active role in each child’s growth, development, and early learning experiences.

By following the Washoe County School District calendar, she prioritizes a healthy work-life balance for both her own family and the families she serves — reinforcing the belief that taking time to care for ourselves helps us be the best caregivers we can be.

Would you like it to sound a little warmer, more professional, or playful in tone? I can tweak it either way.

Testimonials

11/10 recommend ❤️ We love Forest Friends ❤️ Kaitlin J.

Philosophy

A truly unique in-home learning experience for infants and toddlers that emphasizes learning essential life skills through nature and sensory experiences. It provides a beautiful foundation with just the right amount of structure.

Location

We are located in a newer single-family, home rental community in Wingfield, Springs, Sparks, Nevada. Our neighborhood is close knit and offers a beautiful, age-appropriate, playground and large grassy area for large motor play. We are walking distance from Battle Born pond where we love to walk & explore.

About our program

Our small group Nanny Share educational program is thoughtfully designed for children ages 2 months to 2.5 years, meeting NAEYC, Common Core, and Head Start guidelines. Everything your child needs to thrive is provided — from a beautifully furnished play space featuring warm, natural woodland-inspired decor to a variety of textures and materials that engage all the senses. A cozy fenced yard and nearby neighborhood park offer opportunities for safe outdoor play, exploration, and social interaction.

At Forest Friends, your child will learn and grow in a nurturing environment with a 6:1 child-to-teacher ratio, participating in a nationally recognized educational program created specifically for toddlers.

Your child will: • Build strong relationship skills and learn to recognize and express emotions. • Explore a rich variety of books, tools, art materials, and toys that spark curiosity, encourage discovery, and expand vocabulary. • Engage in playful, meaningful activities designed to support the development of 40 essential foundational skills.

Plus — special enrichment activities included: • Introduction to Sign Language • Mindful Yoga sessions

Exciting new Faith Based Learning Themes every month from August through June!

Admissions

Join the Forest Friends community in three easy steps:

1. Explore our website

We’ve provided information about our philosophies and offerings to help you decide if our program may be right for your family.

2. Come see what makes Forest Friends unique. If we are currently hosting tours, you can request or schedule a tour by calling 775-848-1648.

3. Contact us If you’re interested in enrolling, Please do not apply to enroll until you have set up a tour and visited the program.