About
Mission
Philosophy
We also believe that Big Steps Little Feet is an extension of the home. Part of our instruction includes techniques of the role-modeling and other hands-on skills that can be used at home.
Each child is treated equally regardless of race, family background, or religion. Our teachers and staff believe that we are a big part of motivating the children to learn and grow. Doing so requires teachers that enjoy working past the level of custodial care, demonstrating a love and concern for all children.
Our Christian Principles
- We have prayers of thanksgiving before meals and snacks.
- We are non-denominational, teaching from a basic Bible perspective.
- Our teachers model good character qualities and teach them to the children as needed (ex. honesty, responsibility, kindness, love respect etc.).
- We sing and play Bible songs occasionally with our themes and occasionally use Bible topics with our art projects.
Our Staff
Jana Fogarty
Owner
My name is Jana, and my husband and I are the owners of Big Steps Little Feet. I graduated from Michigan Technological University and have completed various Early Childhood Education courses. I have been married to my husband Josh since July of 2005, and we have three children – Jocelyn, and Jonas and Juliana (who currently attend Big Steps). My parents own and operate a Big Steps Little Feet in Ada, Michigan, where we share ideas and programs. My hobbies include traveling, running, and crafting. I also enjoy splashing in puddles, making snow angels, and building sand castles. My favorite thing about working here is hearing the silly things that the children tell you about their day!
Kay Martin
Business Manager
My name is Kay, and I am the Business Manager of Big Steps Little Feet. I have four years of prior experience in childcare and ten years of experience in logistics. After ten years being away from childcare, I was thrilled to get back into a field I’m passionate about! I’m a proud mama of one incredible daughter, who keeps me on my toes! We love to play tag, go to the park, and have intense dance parties. My hobbies include yoga, running, reading and classic films. My favorite part about working for BSLF is getting to play outside with the children and creating fun games together!
Jess Stanford
Director
Hello! My name is Jess and I have been in childcare for 16 years, 10 of them were spent here at Big Steps Little Feet! I spent many of those years as a teacher of varying age groups. I love working helping children learn and explore new things. Seeing them master a new skill is one of life’s greatest pleasures! Now, being in the office, I can help other teachers discover that joy! At home I am the mother of 2 wonderfully weird children; Zach (8) and Hannah (2). We like to create art, read, watch movies, laugh, and explore nature!
Josh Fogarty
Maintenance / IT Support
I am the maintenance man at Big Steps, and strive to continuously improve the facility. I also ensure that the video cameras for each room are working and providing the best possible image. Since 2020, I am also spending more time with children — meeting everyone in the morning and sometimes getting to help out in the classrooms.