Our Staff

We are a driven team of talented childcare providers. We love what we do, and we do it with passion. We look forward to working with you.

Deirdre O’Dowd

Owner

Deidre O’Dowd started Learning to Grow because she saw the need for quality childcare for all children, including those with behavioral/developmental needs that were not supported by typical childcare centers. Deidre has provided licensed in-home childcare a combined total of 10 years before expanding to a childcare center. She has been an HCTC (therapeutic) foster/adoptive parent, and also a behavioral specialist/trainer for families and direct care individuals for 10 plus years.

Email me: learningtogrow@outlook.com

Albert

Director

Albert has been working with/living with special needs children for 16 years.  Albert has extensive training and experience with helping children find calm when they are unable to control their emotions which can result in extreme or unhealthy behaviors. Albert has been with Learning to Grow Childcare since the beginning and believes that developing quality relationships with the children is essential to their success in school and life.  

Cricket

Behavioral/Family Support

Cricket has always had a passion for working with children. He has worked with children in foster care for many years and is always looking for fun projects to do with his kiddos.

Aden

Teacher

Aden has a passion for working with children. His many years in drama as well as role playing games makes him an engaging and energetic teacher. During his free time he enjoys spending quality time with his girlfriend, whom he adores.

Allie

Teacher

Allie has worked with children for as long as she can remember.  Allie has the special ability to relate and connect with all children and is able to meet their individual needs in a fun and loving way. 

Hannah

Teacher

Hannah holds a bachelor’s in Child Development with a minor in Family Relations from California State University, Chico. With several years of experience in childcare, she has found joy in teaching and engaging with children through play. She’s looking forward to creating a nurturing environment and making a positive impact. Hannah relocated in Arizona in 2022, and she is eager to continue her professional growth and learning in this field.

Sam the Ham

Teacher

Was too good for us.

Rylie

Teacher

Rylie has worked at Learning to Grow since the beginning. She loves to cuddle with the babies and has two small kiddos of her own.

Ebony

Teacher’s Assistant

Ebony is currently attending the University of Arizona for a degree in Early Childhood education. Ebony is excellent at showing the children how to be selfless and kind.