Happy Steps Dayhome

Educator: Cristina Mangune
Language: English, Tagalog
Community: Castleridge

My name is Cristina Mangune, and I run a warm, home-based dayhome where children feel safe, loved, and welcomed like family. I believe children learn best in an environment where they feel secure, respected, and encouraged to explore at their own pace. My dayhome offers a cozy, calm space that supports curiosity, independence, and confidence through everyday play and routines.
In my dayhome, learning is play-based and child-led, with a focus on hands-on experiences such as sensory play, creative activities, storytelling, and outdoor time. I provide open-ended materials and thoughtful activities that spark imagination and support each child’s social, emotional, physical, and cognitive development. My goal is to partner closely with families and create a nurturing environment where every child feels happy, supported, and excited to learn each day.

AGE Group:
Infants (0–12 months)
Toddlers (1–3 years)
Preschoolers (3–5 years)

Activities:
At my dayhome, children enjoy a variety of play-based activities designed to support their overall development in a fun and engaging way. I offer sensory play, creative arts and crafts, music and movement, storytime and early literacy activities, and dramatic play that encourages imagination and social skills. Outdoor play is part of our daily routine whenever weather permits.
I also provide child-led learning experiences using open-ended materials and loose parts, allowing children to explore, problem-solve, and express themselves freely. Activities are thoughtfully adapted to each child’s age, interests, and developmental stage, ensuring that every child feels supported, confident, and excited to learn.

Program Hour:
Monday to Friday: 6:30 AM to 6:00 PM