First Years

First Years Childrens Center is operated by Amerae Enterprises, Inc., which is
owned and operated by Kathy (me) and Doug Hartley. Amerae was named after
our daughter Amelia Rae. We have operated a licensed preschool and childcare
facility in the State of Washington since Jan. of 1996. Doug and I have both lived
on Bainbridge Island since 1989 with our daughter, Amelia (born 1991). Doug is a
High School Teacher in Seattle, as well as Vice President, Secretary and
Treasurer of AEI. Doug is usually at the Center 3-4 days a week, usually just
before 5 p.m. I (Kathy) have worked in the medical field for about 15 years and
worked with children since 1966. Before owning First Years I had a licensed
Home Daycare on the Island. I am the President of AEI and Executive Director
of First Years. I am at the Center 4-5 days/week until about 6:45 P.M. You will
usually see me at the Center on the weekends, its quieter ?. Please stop in and
talk with me anytime about anything.
Sharing the office with us is Morgan Harris, a very smart, efficient young lady,
with a get things done personality. Morgan has worked here at First Years since
October of 2001 and during that time she has always been a reliable staff
member no matter what position she worked in. Morgan was our Lead Toddler
Teacher for 3+ years before becoming a Director. This classroom experience
helps her be a better Director by knowing and understanding what goes on in our
classrooms.
Also helping, part time, in the office is Jenny Springer, an organized, reliable,
calm young lady who is willing to go that extra mile to help out. Jenny has
worked in our Center since March of 2001, usually in the Twaddler Room. Since
she also has the experience and understanding of what is going on in our Center,
Jenny is a great person to talk to if you have any questions or concerns.
*Customer service & communication are both really important to me and the staff.
Please let us know how we are doing so we can improve if necessary.
All new parents are encouraged to visit First Years with their children prior to the
first day of childcare and maybe do a few short days before starting on a full day
schedule. This gives the staff and child an opportunity to meet & get to know one
another but it also makes separating on the childs first full day a little easier for
both parent and child. It is ultimately up to you how you want to start off your
child, just let us know.

Child Ages:

3 weeks - 12 years

Licenses & Accreditations:

Washington State Department of Early Learning

Preschool:

Yes

Hours of Operation:

Monday - Friday 6:00 a.m. to 6:30 p.m.