Hearty Homestead

Our Teachers

Alana-Owner/Director

I have been working in the childcare industry for 10+ years. I started as a teacher’s aide in high school where I went on to get my degree in ECE. I worked with an amazing provider through my education connecting with students 3 months to 12 years for most of my career. I found a passion in nannying which allowed me to continue my education with more freedom regarding scheduling. Following my nanny work I moved on to healthcare working as a Certified Health Aide, I serviced patients with mental and physical disabilities especially those on the autism spectrum. This position lead me into swim coaching those with similar disabilities including down syndrome and cerebral palsy.

My goal as a program director is to provide a safe and explorative environment for children of all capabilities and cultures to thrive. I want this program to be inclusive to as many members of my community as possible. I have extensive knowledge and training in Early Childhood Education with courses including: Psychology, Spanish, ASL, Media Awareness, Safe Sleep, Food/Fitness and many more.

Sage- Lead Teacher

I began my journey in education as a teacher’s aide for Kindergarten and 1st grade, where I developed a strong foundation in supporting early learners and fostering a classroom environment where every child feels safe and encouraged.

Even before that role, teaching was part of who I am. As the oldest sibling, I discovered my passion early on—helping my brother learn multiplication before his class covered it. That little spark carried through his academic career, as he excelled in advanced math courses. My love for teaching only deepened when I became a mother in 2022, fueling my dedication to creating warm, trustworthy spaces where children know they are supported.

Beyond the classroom, I am an artist at heart. Crocheting is my favorite craft, though I have been a traditional artist for most of my life. I spend much of my time with yarn in hand, a dog or cat curled up on my lap, and caring for my reptiles at home.

Francis- Lead Teacher

I am a dedicated childcare professional with over four years of experience supporting children in a home-based environment.

Throughout my career as a nanny, senior caregiver, and soon as a full-time daycare worker, I have developed a deep passion for nurturing and teaching children. I take pride in helping them grow, learn, and thrive through hands-on activities, creative exploration, and consistent emotional support.

I am excited to take the next step in a teaching and care role, where I can continue to inspire, guide, and create meaningful connections with young minds.

Testimonials

“We are so happy we found you!” - Katie K

Philosophy

Here at Hearty Homestead we believe in exploration, viewing the PNW in all its beauty. We welcome children of all abilities and cultures with open arms to join us! Education and play in nature support emotional, behavioral and intellectual development. There are many recent studies that show students who learn outdoors develop: a sense of self, independence, confidence, creativity, decision-making and problem-solving skills, empathy towards others, motor skills, self-discipline and initiative. We thrive on being able to supply children with the tools necessary to accomplish all of these skills.

Location

East Highlands of Renton

About our program

We run a half day program from 8:30am-12:30pm

From digging in the garden to yoga in the rain your children will thrive with the opportunity to move freely around our huge backyard lot and neighboring parks.

1. The “Playground”: Our backyard is about ¼ acre of land for exploring! There are climbing structures, balance beams, slides, sandboxes, water tables, and an art area.
2. The Carport: 250 sq. ft. serving as a gathering spot for outdoor activities, riding tricycles, daily meals and snacks and a covered extension to our classroom.
3. The Classroom: Our converted garage is the perfect space to host indoor activities! When the weather is less than ideal or cooperative we will have the room complete with puzzles, books, blocks, stuffed animals, a kitchen set, and many more. The children will have plenty of free play here. This area is also where all of your children’s items for the day will be stored(i.e. rain jackets, water bottles, spare clothes)
4. The Garden: In several areas of the yard there are raised garden beds, collectively over 200 sq. ft. Gardening is huge at Hearty Homestead! Many of our days will be garden focused. We will learn what plants thrive best in the PNW, plant seeds year round, harvest and cultivate our produce!
5. The Animals: Where do we start?! In my eyes no home is complete without a furry companion. Here at the homestead we have 3 dogs: Mac the Border Collie , Maya the Golden Retriever, and Maus the Blue Heeler mix. They will be inside the majority of the day, however there will be some interaction between them and the preschoolers. In addition to the pups we have chickens, ducks and rabbits. Since we live in an urban area you may catch some other wildlife as well! We are a Certified Wildlife Habitat committed to the protection, restoration, transformation and conservation across the Nation. That being said, some activities your child may engage in are feeding, watering, petting, and attending to the animals.

What Should My Child Wear?

The weather in the PNW can change quickly. Please dress your child in layers and if it is a rainy day please bring/dress your child in rain pants, jacket and boots(Tuffo, Muddy Buddy or Rain Suit also work great!)

​What Items Should My Child Pack Daily?

For our afternoon classes please pack your child a hearty lunch. We will provide breakfast for AM attendees and 1 snack per session. 1 extra set of clothes and water bottle labeled with their name. These items can be left in a cubby in the classroom.

​What Is The Plan If There Are Extreme Weather Conditions Or We Have Poor Air Quality?

Please dress your child in rain gear and be assured we will have a great time looking for worms, making rain art, and puddle jumping! If there are thunderstorms or snow we will take the kids inside the covered and heated classroom. If air quality becomes an issue there will be air purification machines running as well.

Admissions

1. Schedule a Tour Families begin by scheduling a tour of our program to meet the director, learn about our nature-based philosophy, and explore our learning environment.
   2. One-Hour Trial Visit After the tour, families are invited to schedule a one-hour trial visit. During this time, your child will meet our teachers, join a portion of the class, and get a feel for the routine.
   3. Full Practice Day If the one-hour visit goes well, the next step is a full practice day. This allows your child to experience the rhythm of the day and helps both the family and teachers assess readiness for enrollment.
   4. Enrollment & Paperwork Once the practice day is complete and all parties are ready to move forward, we will send the enrollment packet. Enrollment is secured upon completion of all forms and payment of the registration fee.