“I just love hearing from parents that their child is speaking Spanish at home,” says Tatiana Méndez, “especially when their parents don’t speak it at home. Knowing that we’re helping to shape a child’s life, to get them ready for the next stage of their lives, is really satisfying.” And Tatiana knows what she’s talking about: She studied childhood psychology and worked as a teacher in her native Ecuador before teaming up with Karina Zumba to open Un Mundo de Niños in Edina. And they make a great team: In addition to Tatiana’s background, Karina, has always worked in childcare. In fact, she was CEO of one of the largest childcare chains in Minnesota before venturing out on her own.
Un Mundo de Niños is a bilingual (English and Spanish) childcare center that provides a safe, warm and stimulating environment for children aged from six weeks to six years. The curriculum was inspired by the Reggio Emilia Approach, “which focuses on the child’s interests and how they learn,” says Tatiana. “Let’s say we’re at the park and a child says, ‘That tree doesn’t have any leaves!’ So, as a staff, we’ll work on that with them, both in the park and in the classroom, to discover more about the tree, why it might not have leaves, and more.” Karina adds, “the idea is that their surroundings are their classroom. We create a cozy environment that best allows for organic learning.”
Currently Un Mundo de Niños has space for 39 students in three programs, one each for infants, toddlers and preschool-aged kids. Because of their unique curriculum, linguistic environment and personalized care, they have become a magnet for parents across the Twin Cities Metro Area. “The size of our classes really sets us apart,” mentions Tatiana. “The smaller groups allow us to have truly one-on-one care, and we get to know each child individually — we understand their physical and academic needs, as well as their parents’ goals.”
“One place where we really stand out,” says Karina, “is with special-needs children. We really take pride in being able to serve all kinds of families in all of their childcare needs.”
Students get healthy snacks and freshly made food daily. When its time to burn off some energy, they’ll enjoy Zumba, cooking classes, exploration and more. “We also will occasionally assign homework, as it’s important to instill values like consciousness and responsibility.”
“I just love my work,” says Karina. “It keeps me in touch with what it’s like to be a kid, and that’s invaluable. Our students make us laugh, they react to our emotions. It’s like an extra bonus, because they are so genuine.”
As Tatiana and Karina worked to open Un Mundo de Niños, they attempted to get financing from traditional banks, but for several reasons that didn’t work out. “It’s been great working with LEDC,” said Tatiana. “With heir help on technical assistance and accessing capital, we were able to create all of this,” she says, gesturing to the classrooms and play area.
“We’re two Latinas fighting for our dream, working alongside people who support us. There are a lot of businesses like ours, but very few where you’ll find the owners on site, working. It’s really important for us to be involved in everything.”
Website: www.unmundodeninos.com
Address: 7380 France Ave S, Edina, MN 55435
Phone: 952-977-9164
Email: info@unmundodeminos.com
Focus: Children aged 6 months to 6 years
