Child-Led Learning
Children's interests drive discovery. We follow their curiosity and build experiences around it.
About Us
Rooted in curiosity, grown with care
Footsteps Child Care is a warm, play-based program where children feel known, supported, and excited to learn — inspired by Reggio Emilia principles.
Our Story
A space designed around the child
We believe children learn best when they lead the way. Every classroom at Footsteps is thoughtfully designed to spark curiosity through exploration and imagination — a space that teaches as much as the people in it.
What began in 2019 as an intimate, home-based program in Playa Vista has grown into a multi-classroom community — and in 2025 expanded into a purpose-built center in Mid-City Los Angeles, serving more families in a warm, community-focused environment.
Our Team
Meet the people behind Footsteps
A dedicated team who bring education, experience, and a whole lot of heart to caring for your children every day.
Meet Our Founder
Kristin Chamberlain
Founder
- ✓ B.A. in Child Development
- ✓ M.A. in Clinical Psychology, specializing in Child Studies and Marriage and Family Therapy
Kristin has spent nearly two decades in early childhood — as a nanny, preschool teacher, assistant director, and clinician supporting young children and families. In 2019 she combined that experience with her Kauai upbringing's love of community and nature to open Footsteps Child Care, which has since grown from a Playa Vista home program into infant care and a Mid-City preschool.
Meet Our Director
Mercy Thomas
Director
- ✓ B.A. in Child Development
- ✓ Currently pursuing M.A. in School Counseling
Mercy brings years of hands-on experience as a TK, preschool, daycare, and after-school teacher, with a gift for guiding children through big developmental transitions. As the oldest daughter in a first-generation household, she leads with compassion and perseverance — building a warm, inclusive community where children and educators alike feel supported.
Meet Our Team
Michelle
Lead Infant Teacher · Playa Vista
Michelle has been part of the Footsteps family since 2022 and brings years of early childhood experience, beginning at a daycare center in her native Illinois. A mother of three, she leads with the calm presence and patience that help our youngest learners feel secure as they explore and grow.
What We Value
The principles that guide us
Our Reggio-inspired philosophy shows up in everything from our environments to our everyday conversations.
Meaningful Connection
Attentive listening and teacher-led conversation help language and relationships flourish.
Connection to Nature
Natural, taste-safe materials and seamless indoor/outdoor spaces ground learning in the real world.
Our Locations
A home and a center in Los Angeles
Playa Vista
11861 Juniette St, Los Angeles, 90230
Ages 6 months–6 years
Two licensed home daycare programs · License #197494046 · #197495616
Mid-City
5517–5523 Venice Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90019
Ages 18 months–6 years
Licensed daycare center · License #197495682
Come see Footsteps for yourself
We'd love to share our space with your family. Start with a short interest form and we'll be in touch.