At Kid Works Children’s Center, our team is the heart of our success. We’ve cultivated a diverse group of passionate educators and professionals who bring unparalleled expertise and dedication to early childhood education. Our staff boasts an impressive range of academic achievements, from associate’s degrees to master’s degrees, ensuring a rich educational foundation for your child. But our commitment to learning doesn’t stop there. We firmly believe in the power of lifelong learning, both for our students and ourselves.
Safety First: All our teachers are CPR and First Aid certified, ensuring a safe environment for your child.
Lisa Escobar – Bungalow Teacher
Lisa Escobar is a veteran early childhood educator at Kid Works Children’s Center, currently leading the Bungalow 2 classroom. Lisa has over 30 years of experience at Kid Works. She brings a wealth of knowledge, compassion, and dedication to the development of young children.
She finds deep joy in collaborating with children on their learning journeys, guiding them through moments of discovery and growth. For Lisa, the most rewarding part of teaching is simply being present. She is an active participant in the beautiful process of watching each child grow and thrive.
Lisa has an educational background in Early Childhood Education (ECE). She is committed to fostering an environment where children feel safe. She ensures they feel valued and empowered. Her favorite quote speaks to her nurturing philosophy: “Knowing that we can be loved exactly as we are inspires us. It gives us the best opportunity.” It helps us grow into the healthiest of people.” – Fred Roger
Outside of the classroom, Lisa is an avid reader who treasures time with her family. She is a proud mother of three amazing adult children and is excited to soon become a first-time grandmother.
Anais Garcia – Bungalow Teacher
Anais Garcia is a passionate early childhood educator. She leads the Bungalow classroom at Kid Works Children’s Center. There, she lovingly teaches and supports energetic two-year-olds. With nearly two years of experience at Kid Works, Anais brings a thoughtful, nurturing approach to child development.
She finds deep joy in witnessing each child reach important milestones. She firmly believes in the power of play as a vital tool for learning. For Anais, the most rewarding part of teaching is helping young children grow emotionally and socially during these formative years.
Anais holds a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) degree and continues to expand her knowledge to better serve her students. Her favorite quote is from The Hobbit by J.R.R. Tolkien: “If more of us valued food and cheer and song above hoarded gold, it would be a merrier world.”
Outside the classroom, Anais enjoys unwinding by watching K-dramas and cherishing time with her beloved pets—both furry and scaled. She finds happiness in life’s simple pleasures and brings that sense of joy into everything she does.
Kayla Kordich – Garden Room
Since joining Kid Works in May 2024, Kayla has brought warmth, energy, and a genuine love for teaching to the classroom every day. With an associate degree and multiple specialization certificates, she combines knowledge with heart to support each child’s growth in language, independence, and problem-solving.
She finds the most joy in the enthusiasm children bring to learning and is deeply fulfilled by their excitement when discovering something new. Her goal is to spark a lifelong love of learning in every child she teaches.
Outside of the classroom, [Name] enjoys cooking and playing games—activities that help her unwind, get creative, and stay connected with loved ones. She’s a proud Lakers fan, a Marvel movie enthusiast, and dreams of becoming a mom one day. A favorite quote that inspires her daily is by Princess Diana: “Carry out a random act of kindness, with no expectation of reward, safe in the knowledge that one day, someone might do the same for you.”
Melinda Saucedo Stinton – Sun Room
Melinda Saucedo Stinton is the dedicated lead teacher of the Sun Room at Kid Works Children’s Center. She nurtures and educates vibrant four-year-olds. Since joining the team in May 2021, Melinda has brought warmth, creativity, and a deep commitment to early childhood education.
She finds immense joy in being a supportive presence during each child’s journey of growth, independence, and confidence. The most rewarding part of her role is witnessing children reach important milestones and celebrating their accomplishments alongside them.
Melinda holds an Associate of Arts (AA) degree in Early Childhood Education. She uses this degree to create an engaging, developmentally appropriate classroom experience. Her favorite quote is: “Life’s greatest adventures are those shared with friends. Every obstacle becomes a triumph. Every memory becomes a treasure” – Unknown.
Outside the classroom, Melinda enjoys immersing herself in music and learning to play the drums. She has two beloved cats, Jinx and Ash.
Dana Ferrarelli
Dana Ferrarelli brings a deep love for early childhood education to her role as the teacher of the Children’s Garden Classroom. With an Associate Degree in Child Development and decades of experience, Dana is passionate about creating opportunities for children to make their own discoveries through hands-on learning. She first joined Kid Works in 1987 and returned in 2011, continuing to share her warmth and dedication with each new generation of learners. Dana finds the greatest joy in witnessing the kindness children show to one another and believes in fostering a nurturing environment where curiosity thrives.
A native of East Long Beach, Dana enjoys gardening, hiking, sewing, embroidery, cooking, and spending quality time with her two sons and two beloved cats. One of her favorite quotes is by Alphonse Karr: “Some people grumble that roses have thorns; I am grateful that thorns have roses.”
Carly Van Camp – Substitute / Floater
Carly Van Camp serves as a Substitute and Floater Teacher at Kid Works Children’s Center, supporting all classrooms with warmth and flexibility. She holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Child Development and Family Studies and is currently pursuing her teaching credential. Carly finds the greatest joy in building meaningful relationships with children and their families, gaining fresh perspectives each day through her work. For her, the most rewarding part of teaching is witnessing the growth and development that unfolds in each child’s journey.
Originally from San Clemente, Carly has lived in Long Beach for the past six years with her beloved cat, Delilah. She enjoys connecting with the local community and spending her free time playing pickleball, golfing, visiting the beach, and shopping. One of her favorite quotes, shared by her dad, is: “Your words are like toothpaste. It comes out really easy but it is very difficult to put it back in the tube.”
Dena Hardin – Director
Dena Hardin is the Director of Kid Works Children’s Center, bringing over 30 years of experience working with children and families. She holds a Master’s Degree in Human Development and is passionate about collaborating with teachers to design inspiring and engaging environments for young learners. For Dena, the most rewarding moments come when a child experiences that magical “ah-ha” moment of discovery and understanding.
Dena is a 3rd generation Angeleno and she shares her home with her adorable dog, Charlie. Outside of work, she enjoys ballroom dancing and finds inspiration in one of her favorite quotes from Willy Wonka: “Where is fantasy bred? In the heart or in the head?”
Frequently Asked Questions
What qualifications do the teachers at Kid Works Children’s Center have?
At Kid Works Children’s Center in Long Beach, our teachers are highly qualified and passionate early childhood educators. Our staff includes professionals with Associate’s, Bachelor’s, and even Master’s degrees in fields such as Early Childhood Education, Human Development, and Child Development and Family Studies. Every teacher is also CPR and First Aid certified, ensuring a safe and nurturing learning environment. We are committed to lifelong learning—for both children and educators—to provide your child with the best start possible.
What makes Kid Works Children’s Center stand out from other Long Beach daycare centers?
Kid Works Children’s Center stands out thanks to our dedicated team, enriching curriculum, and strong sense of community. We’ve been serving families in Long Beach and Belmont Heights for decades with a focus on building meaningful relationships, providing personalized care, and creating joyful learning experiences. From experienced teachers like Lisa Escobar (30+ years at Kid Works) to engaging environments led by educators like Melinda Stinton and Carolina Perez, we offer more than just daycare—we build a foundation for lifelong learning.
Reserve your child’s seat at the best daycare center in Long Beach. Schedule a tour and meet the Kid Works Family!
Kid Works Children Center 