My Story

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I’m Ashley, a mom, the founder of Loving Care Collective and a dedicated Early Childhood Care and Education Specialist . I know firsthand how overwhelming it can feel to begin the search for quality childcare. With years of experience in education and a deep passion for supporting families, I’ve made it my mission to help parents navigate their options with confidence and clarity.

I hold a degree in Psychology with an emphasis in Children and Adolescents and have worked in various roles across the Early Childhood Education field. My experience includes:
❤️Nanny & Nanny Share – Providing hands-on, personalized care for children.
❤️Lead Teacher – Managing an early childhood classroom, developing curriculum and fostering early learning.
❤️Director & Administrator – Overseeing childcare programs, ensuring compliance, and training educators.
❤️Postpartum Doula – providing physical, emotional, and educational support to families after childbirth, helping with newborn care, parental well-being, and household adjustments. My training was completed through Bastyr University and I am currently working toward a certification by DONA International

My expertise extends beyond the classroom—I have in-depth knowledge of Washington Administrative Codes (WAC) that regulate childcare providers, have conducted extensive background checks, and have represented schools during licensing and health department visits. I’ve also trained and mentored teachers on the importance of high-quality early care and its impact on child development.

Why Quality Childcare Matters

Brain development starts before birth and continues into adulthood, but the first five years are the most critical. During this time, more than 1 million neural connections form every second, shaping a child’s future learning, behavior, and well-being. These connections are strengthened through positive, responsive interactions—when caregivers engage with warmth, attention, and consistency.

High-quality childcare provides the safe, loving environment children need to build strong brain architecture. Without these nurturing experiences, development can be disrupted, leading to challenges in emotional regulation, learning, and long-term success.

At Loving Care Collective, I am committed to empowering families with knowledge and resources so they can make informed, confident decisions about their child’s care. Let’s ensure every child gets the best start in life!

Sources:

Harvard University Center on the Developing Child https://developingchild.harvard.edu/key-concept/brain-architecture/

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