Meet our team

Jan James

I have had the privilege of working with children for over 40 years. I believe children are our most precious gifts and they learn best when it is hands on and fun!
I'm a farmgirl at heart and enjoy gardening and growing flowers. We live on a small farm and enjoy having a variety of animals such as dogs, cats, chickens and we even at one time had a pet pig. Camping is one of our family's favorite things to do together. There is nothing better than being outdoors in God's wonderful creation.
I believe each child is unique and special and each one learns in a way that is unique to them. I like to do many different activities so that we can help each child learn in a way that fits them. I like to have fun and I like to make learning fun for the kids and share my love of the outdoors, gardening and animals with them. There is nothing better than watching a child's face when they discover something for the first time.
My greatest joy is my family. I have 3 children and I am blessed to have 3 beautiful grandchildren. Nothing better than being "Gaga" to them!
I look forward to having you and your child join our Kids at Heart family.

Denise Huft

My name is Jan James and I have worked with children since I was young as a nanny, infant room teacher, preschool teacher, after school programs, crisis nursery, and a children's coordinator for 0-12 year old's.
I am married and have 5 boys ranging from elementary to college age. In my free time I enjoy going to the beach, playing sports, coaching youth sports listening to music, or going on a fun getaway with my family.
I am a child advocate, who sees the importance in investing in our children when they are young to help them meet their full potential. I love seeing kids smile or just have that proud moment when they understand a new concept or when their sense of wonder is activated by discovering something new like a small bug outside. I believe that learning should be fun and that kids learn through different types of play as well as using a variety of tools from past and present teachers/parents.
I may have graduated from college, but preschool is where I choose to spend my best days.