About Adventures with Friends
How it all started
After 8 years as a nurse, I felt called to make a change and follow something closer to my heart. Throughout my nursing career, I discovered a deep passion for caring for others. I spent nearly four years in geriatric nursing, supporting and advocating for elderly patients, followed by four years as an allergy nurse, where I specialized in mixing immunotherapy solutions, administering injections, and coordinating patient care.
Along the way, I realized my love for working with children. Through nannying, I found joy in nurturing and supporting little ones, and during the COVID-19 pandemic, I discovered a passion for teaching as I homeschooled kindergarten-aged twins. These experiences opened my eyes to the impact of hands-on, attentive care and learning in a child’s early years.
Caring for my medically complex niece further shaped my journey, deepening my compassion and strengthening my desire to become a mother. This led me to pursue foster care, where I eventually adopted my daughter, who is now almost five years old.
Today, I bring together my background in nursing, childcare, foster care and home education to create a safe, nurturing, and engaging environment for children—one where they are supported, encouraged, and free to grow, explore, and simply be kids.
Starting an in-home program has allowed me to do just that—while also creating a safe, fun, and meaningful environment for other children. It’s a space where kids can explore, learn, and feel truly cared for, just like I would want for my own.
Small Group, Big Benefits
I intentionally keep our group small to create a more personal, home-like experience.
In our space, children feel comfortable, supported, and free to be themselves—while building meaningful friendships and enjoying each day’s adventure.
Jennifer
With a background in nannying, caring for children with special needs, nursing, and as a licensed foster parent, I bring a well-rounded, hands-on approach to childcare. My experience has taught me how to support children with patience, attentiveness, and care—while creating a safe, nurturing environment where they can grow, explore, and have fun.
I hold a Licensed Practical Nursing (LPN) certificate, basic health certificate, along with an Associate of Arts Oregon Transfer (AAOT) and an Associate of General Studies degree. I am certified in Basic Life Support (BLS) and First Aid, and I have completed additional health-focused training that supports my ability to provide safe, responsive care. My medical background allows me to confidently handle a wide range of situations while prioritizing each child’s well-being.
I am passionate about continued learning and regularly pursue coursework focused on early childhood development and working with young children. I truly enjoy discovering new ways to teach, engage, and support kids in meaningful, age-appropriate ways.
Safety & Care You Can Trust
With a background in nursing, safety, attentiveness, and care are always a top priority. From daily routines to outings, children are closely supervised in a safe, structured, and supportive environment.
Built Around Real Adventures
I’ve always loved taking my own children on adventures—whether it’s the park, the museum, the pool, or a fun day at the Family Fun Center. Those moments of exploring, playing, and discovering are what childhood should be about.
That’s where this program began.
I wanted to create a space where other children could experience those same kinds of adventures during their day—while their parents are at work. Instead of a typical childcare setting, kids get to explore, move, and make memories in a fun and engaging way.
A Day in Our Summer Program
Days are designed to feel balanced and enjoyable—featuring one main adventure, time for free play, and built-in moments to rest and reset. Children can explore, connect, and enjoy their day without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.
- Arrival
- Free play
- color/paint/magnets/play-doh/legos/imaginative play/games/fort building
- Huddle (go over adventure expectations)
- Transport (Yoto/tonies/audio books/music)
- Adventure (lunch at adventure)
- Transport to home-base (Yoto/Tonies/audio books/music)
- Quiet/Reset (Chapter book read aloud/ coloring/ painting or other quiet activity)
- Group activity
- Good-byes