Mission Statement

You're Invited Children’s Center is committed to creating a safe, nurturing environment where children learn and grow through long, uninterrupted periods of play. We welcome and include all families, offering accessible enrollment, responsive communication, and environments that support a wide range of developmental needs. We honor each child as an individual with their own personality, strengths, and ways of learning, and we design intentional experiences that build confidence, support emotional well‑being, and strengthen family stability. Our work helps children develop the secure foundations they need to thrive—now and as they grow.

Philosophy 

At You’re Invited Children’s Center, we believe children learn best when they feel safe, supported, and free to explore at their own pace. Play is the foundation of our program, and we intentionally design our environment and daily schedule to give children long periods of uninterrupted, free‑flow play. This approach allows children to move between thoughtfully prepared spaces—indoors and outdoors—based on their interests, developmental needs, and emerging skills.

Our classrooms offer open, accessible play areas that encourage curiosity, independence, and meaningful engagement. Children choose where to play, how long to stay, and what materials to explore, giving them the freedom to learn in ways that honor their unique personalities, strengths, and needs. Educators observe closely, respond with intention, and support each child’s growth through warm relationships, consistent routines, and developmentally appropriate guidance.

We are committed to creating a community where every child feels seen, valued, and capable. By providing safe environments, predictable schedules, and responsive caregiving, we help children build confidence, emotional security, and a strong sense of self. Our philosophy reflects our belief that when children are trusted to explore and express themselves through play, they develop the foundational skills needed for lifelong learning and well‑being.

Founder and Executive Director

With over 30 years of experience in Early Childhood Education, Jami West is the founder and Executive Director of You're Invited Children’s Center. Since its opening in 2005, Jami has led the center in offering play-based learning for children ages 2 to 5, and expanded the program in 2010 to include care for school-age children.

Jami holds a Master’s degree in Human Development with a specialization in Child Development. In addition to her role at You're Invited, she teaches college-level Early Childhood Education courses. Jami is deeply passionate about the importance of play-based learning, respectful caregiving, and brain development during the early years, and she brings this expertise and commitment to the center’s philosophy and daily practices.