A Heart for Child Care, A Home for Learning: Katrina Woods’ Journey

For nearly two decades, Katrina Woods has been a trusted name in Glendale, Arizona, providing something that is invaluable to many families—reliable, loving, and high-quality child care. Certified by the Arizona Department of Economic Security (DES), Katrina’s home-based child care program offers parents more than just a service; it is a safe, enriching environment where children flourish and parents find peace of mind.

Through her partnership with DES, Katrina has built a business that meets the highest standards of care, offering Glendale families a nurturing space for their children to grow.

From Retail to Child Care: Finding Her Calling

Katrina's journey into child care wasn’t a straight path. She first entered the field in 2007 but briefly moved into retail work, where she found herself continually drawn to children’s departments. It didn’t take long before she realized her true calling.

Katrina eventually transitioned into education, working for 16 years as a kindergarten teacher. While she enjoyed her work, she always knew her dream was to open her own child care business. In 2021, with DES’s support, she made that dream a reality, and since then, she’s never looked back.

"For the last three years, I've been doing in-home child care, and I absolutely love it,” she says.

Creating a Safe and Enriching Home Environment

Katrina operates her child care business out of her Glendale apartment, a space she worried might not be large enough. However, after obtaining approval from her landlord and working with DES to ensure the space met all the necessary standards, she found the setting to be perfect for her small group of children.

"With just four kids, it works out perfectly," she explains. "We have plenty of space to play, learn, and even get outside to burn off energy."

Katrina’s daily routine for her kids is packed with enriching activities designed to foster both educational and emotional growth. Her day starts with breakfast, followed by free play to help ease the children into their day. Then comes structured learning—storytime, art, math, and science. Katrina allows the children to select their activities based on their interests, fostering a sense of independence.

She follows a daily schedule that blends learning and enrichment activities. A firm believer in routines, she knows the importance of structure, particularly for the two children in her care with developmental differences.

"Routine is key. It encourages good behavior and helps the kids learn to regulate themselves. It’s especially crucial for my differently-abled kiddos," she says.

Supporting Children and Families Alike

"I love sending parents pictures throughout the day so they can see their kids are happy and thriving," Katrina says. "It gives them peace of mind, which I love providing."

Katrina understands the impact she’s making on the kids she cares for and the families she serves. Her business allows parents to work and provide for their families while knowing their children are safe, happy, and well cared for.

"You don’t always see the difference right away," she shares, "but when they go off to kindergarten, and you see them thriving, it's such a wonderful feeling. I helped them get there."

How DES Certification Transformed Katrina’s Business

Katrina credits much of her success to becoming DES-certified in 2021. The process, she says, was straightforward, and DES provided all the necessary resources to ensure she was set up for success.

"They provided training, materials, and ongoing support, which made the process so much easier," she says.

The benefits of being DES-certified extend to both Katrina and the parents she serves. Certification allows providers to care for up to four children in their homes while meeting Arizona’s strict health and safety standards. It provides peace of mind for parents knowing their child is in a regulated, high-quality environment.

"With just four kids, I can give them the attention they need, and the small group setting is great for their development," Katrina says.

Filling the Child Care Gap

For Woods, child care isn’t just a business—it’s a passion and a way to make a lasting impact.

"If you have the heart for children, please do it," she says. "We need more providers who truly care about the next generation. It’s not just about watching kids—it’s about helping them grow and helping families thrive."

As Jamie Horton, state licensing surveyor supervisor for DES, explains, Arizona's demand for child care providers continues to grow.

"DES-certified providers like Katrina are playing a crucial role in filling the gap," says Horton. "They offer a safe, supportive environment that meets high health and safety standards, ensuring children’s well-being and providing parents with peace of mind."

Katrina's advice is simple for those considering a career in child care: "Go for it. You won't regret it. There’s a huge need for this work, and DES offers incredible support. If you love kids, it’s the best decision you can make."

Become a DES Certified Child Care Provider Today

Becoming a DES-certified child care provider offers the opportunity to make a lasting impact on children, families, and communities. For more information on how to get started, visit AZFamilyChildCare.com.