MARY WELCH, NAPA COUNTY “WOMAN OF THE YEAR”, FOUNDED CHILDREN’S COTTAGE CHILD CARE IN 1993
Our History: The Story of Children’s Cottage Child Care
The story of Children’s Cottage Child Care begins with a vision rooted in experience, family values, and a deep commitment to quality early childhood education.
After years serving as an executive with KinderCare in the East Bay, Mary Welch had seen firsthand the limitations of large, corporate-style daycare. In 1993, seeking a better way—and a better place to raise their young family—Mary and her husband Ray relocated to the Napa Valley with their three small children. Driven by a passion for nurturing young minds and a belief that child care could be more personal, more enriching, and more joyful, they purchased a small, local childcare center with big dreams for its future.
From the start, Mary and Ray focused on improving both the quality of care and the level of service. Their dedication quickly gained recognition: Mary was honored with a “Woman of the Year” award by Napa County for her contributions to early childhood education.
With the help of an SBA loan and a growing reputation for excellence, the Welches expanded to a larger location. This new space allowed them to open a full-service infant and preschool center, serving up to 82 children from birth through age five.
True to their vision, Children’s Cottage was never just a daycare. Drawing inspiration from educational philosophies like Reggio Emilia, Montessori, and Waldorf, the program emphasized a play-based, arts-rich, bilingual, and nature-connected approach. Every aspect of the curriculum was thoughtfully designed to support individual developmental needs, spark creativity, and lay the foundation for a lifelong love of learning.
Over the decades, Children’s Cottage has become a beloved part of the Napa Valley community. Thousands of local families have entrusted their children to this nurturing environment, where joy, discovery, and personal growth are at the heart of every day.
From its humble beginnings to its thriving present, Children’s Cottage Child Care remains guided by the same founding principle: that every child deserves a thoughtful, joyful, and meaningful beginning.
Celebrating Over 3 Decades in Napa Valley
Story from the Napa Valley Register
MARY and RAY WELCH