Our Story
It shouldn’t be so difficult to find capable, reliable and trustworthy childcare. That’s what we said when we set out to create Jens Little Rugrats in 2000. And drawing on our own personal experiences, we established a full child care agency that ensures rigorous screening and customized matching. With years of collective experience in childcare, we’ve learned what families want and we’re proud to share this with you.
Learn more about how we can help you.
OUR CARE
- INFANT CARE (0–1 YEAR) – Safe, nurturing environment focused on early development
- WADDLERS (1 YEAR) – Gentle exploration, sensory play, and early social skills
- BUSY BEES (2–3 YEARS) – Structured learning, language growth, and hands‑on activities
- PRESCHOOL (4–5 YEARS) – Kindergarten readiness, early academics, and creative learning
Our Team
Jen Strelnik
Owner/Operator
Bio: Jen Strelnik has been the Owner/Operator of Jen’s Little Rugrats since July 2007. She brings a warm, caring touch to every child she looks after.
Favorite Activity: Sensory Play
Fun Fact: Coaches for a travel softball team.
Hobbies
Kallie Nerlin
Lead Teacher
Bio: Has been a lead teacher for Jen’s Little Rugrats for 8+ years.
Favorite Activity: Circle Time, Art, and Infant Cuddles
Fun Fact: Works on their farm!
Hobbies
Berkley Maki
Lead Teacher
Bio: Has been with Jen’s Little Rugrats for over 2 years.
Favorite Activity: Arts, Dancing and Singing
Fun Fact: I love baking and spending time with my boyfriend.
Hobbies
Mary Ward
Lead Teacher
Bio: Has been a lead teacher for Jen’s Little Rugrats for 8+ years. Currently Waddler Lead Teacher.
Favorite Activity: Reading Time, Music and Dance Time
Fun Fact: I love hunting on my freetime.
Hobbies
Jordan Hendrickson
Lead Teacher
Bio: Miss Jordan is the Lead Pre K Teacher. She has been with JLR for 6 years
Favorite Activity: Crafts!
Fun Fact: Ms. Jordan loves working out on her free time.
Hobbies
Michele Lomanto
Teacher
Bio: Has been working in childcare for almost 6 years. Started at Jen’s Little Rugrats in 2023 and rejoined the team this August.
Favorite Activity: Arts and Crafts
Fun Fact: Biking enthusiast.
Hobbies
Aaila Matheson
Teacher
Bio: Has been caring for children at Jen’s Little Rugrats for over a year.
Favorite Activity: Circle Time!
Fun Fact: I enjoy spending time outdoors and with my loved ones.
Hobbies
Madison Biggs
Teacher
Bio: Ms. Madison has been with Jen’s Little Rugrats since late June and she absolutely love all of the kiddos.
Favorite Activity: Art Projects
Fun Fact: Mom of to a beautiful little girl!
Hobbies
Manon Chadwick
Teacher
Bio: Ms. Manon has been working at Jens Little Rugrats since June 2026.
Favorite Activity: Going Outside and Reading Circle Time
Fun Fact: I like baking!
Hobbies
Alissa Armstrong
Teacher
Bio: Ms. Alissa is one of the newest members of our teaching team. Excited to have her here.
Favorite Activity: Crafts and outside play.
Fun Fact: I love going to concerts and listening to live music.
Hobbies
Our Awards & Recognition
We're honored to be recognized for our commitment to quality childcare and the well-being of every child in our community.
