ABOUT US
Tools of the Mind Curriculum
Our curriculum, Tools of the Mind, fosters all areas of social, emotional, physical, and intellectual growth and development in children while celebrating these most beautiful stages of childhood.
We pride ourselves on our warm, welcoming atmosphere, lovely facility,
and exciting, enriching activities in English and Spanish.
Our nurturing and experienced staff is duly trained in all aspects of childcare, including:
- CPR and First Aid
- Child Health and Wellness
- Potty Training
- Positive Guidance
- Indoor and Outdoor Exercise
- Creative Play
- Early Childhood Education
- life skills
- language arts/literacy
- mathematics
- science
- social studies
- gross and fine motor development,
- music & movement
- art
Owner/Sponsor Milena Rodriguez:
I always knew I wanted to take care of children. For 15 years, I ran my own in-home daycare. Coming to a realization in my homecare years, I decided that one day, opening a larger facility, would allow me to teach more children and provide a wonderful educational experience. I have come a long way and worked hard to be able to expand to this current location (8 years!). With our current facility, I am able to continue sharing my language and culture. Introducing Hispanic food allows Totri to change difficult, picky eaters and to expand their taste to a variety of foods. As these young children grow, develop, and become independent, it is gratifying for me to watch. Best of all, the visits from past graduates truly make every second that I spend with the children more enjoyable and rewarding.
Head Teacher/ Director Mayra Velastegui:
I am very excited to be the Head Teacher for the Pre-K classroom. This is my third-year teaching at Totri and I would not pass it up for any other grade. I am thrilled to be part of
this amazing opportunity where the children enjoy their days filled with fun, new
adventures and lots of learning.
My philosophy for learning is that each child is a treasure chest, full of unique qualities and abilities waiting for teachers to find the key that unlocks each child’s potential.
EDUCATION
I have credentials of Master in Early Childhood/Special Ed. from New Jersey City University, rewarded in 2010, after receiving a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration in 2002. For 5 years, I was a part-time teacher for the South Orange/Maplewood School District before pursuing my masters, leading
me to become a bilingual educator who
loves kids and is loved by kids.