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About Us
A Vision for the Children of Emmett
Gem Kids Infant & Toddler Center was created with one goal in mind — to provide a safe, loving, and inspiring space for Emmett’s littlest learners to grow, explore, and shine.
We understand that choosing childcare is one of the most important decisions parents make. That’s why we designed Gem Kids to feel like a second home — full of warmth, laughter, and care you can trust.
Our name comes from Idaho, the Gem State, and Emmett, the Gem County and overall represents how we see every child — as a precious gem with unique qualities waiting to be discovered.
Our Philosophy
At Gem Kids, we believe early childhood is a magical time of growth and discovery.
Our philosophy is built around three core values:
- Nurture with Love – Every child is cared for with compassion and respect. We build strong, positive relationships that help children feel secure and confident.
- Learn Through Play – Play is the foundation of all learning. Our classrooms are full of hands-on experiences that encourage curiosity, problem-solving, and creativity.
- Grow Together – We partner with families to support each child’s development — celebrating milestones and working together to meet every child’s individual needs.
Our Approach
We focus on whole-child development, nurturing social, emotional, physical, and cognitive growth.
Each day includes a balance of structured activities and free exploration designed for each age group.
- Infants are nurtured through bonding, sensory play, and gentle routines.
- Toddlers explore through movement, art, and language-rich experiences.
- Preschool Prep children build independence, early literacy, and social skills to prepare for the next stage of learning.
Our curriculum emphasizes discovery, music, movement, and outdoor play — because childhood should be joyful!
Our Environment
Gem Kids provides a clean, safe, and engaging environment where children can thrive.
Each classroom is designed to spark curiosity — with soft lighting, natural materials, age-appropriate toys, and plenty of space to play and explore.
We follow strict health and safety standards to ensure your child’s well-being, including daily sanitizing routines and secure check-in/out procedures.
Family Partnership
Parents are a child’s first and most important teachers. We believe in open communication and teamwork between families and caregivers.
We share daily updates, photos, and developmental notes so you can feel connected to your child’s day.
MeEt Our team
Meet Krystal
Hello! I’m the proud owner and founder of Gem Kids Infant & Toddler Center here in beautiful Emmett, Idaho.
As a mother of six, I understand firsthand the importance of finding a safe, loving, and nurturing place for children to learn and grow. My journey through motherhood has shaped every part of who I am, teaching me patience, creativity, and the incredible value of early learning experiences that build confidence for life.
I hold a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology, which has deepened my understanding of child development, behavior, and the emotional foundations that support healthy growth. This background allows me to approach childcare with insight, compassion, and a commitment to helping every child thrive both emotionally and academically.
Over the past 10 years, I’ve built and managed several successful businesses, always with a focus on creating meaningful, positive impact in the community. Now, I’m channeling that experience and passion into the childcare sector, where my heart is called to.
My goal is simple: to provide Emmett families with a dependable, high-quality environment where their little ones feel loved, supported, and inspired to explore the world around them.
I’m excited to continue growing Gem Kids into new opportunities and to build strong relationships with families, fellow childcare providers, and community partners here in Gem County and throughout the Valley.
Together, we’re building a community where every child is valued, encouraged, and given the chance to grow with confidence and joy.
First Aid/ CPR Certified --Daycare Owner Certification through IAP College--Bachelors in Psychology
Mary – CNA, Early Childhood Specialist
Mary has over 30 years of nursing experience caring for individuals of all ages. She holds certifications in CPR, First Aid, Nutrition, Autism Awareness, Mental Health, Childhood Trauma and Resilience, Water Rescue, Trauma-Informed Care, and Diversity. Mary brings a calm, patient presence to the classroom and is skilled in de-escalation and emotional regulation techniques. She believes in intentional, playful engagement and thoughtful observation to support each child’s growth and confidence. Mary is passionate about early childhood development and enjoys singing, songwriting, badminton, and calligraphy.
Meet Molly
Molly, a dedicated mother, caregiver, and nature enthusiast whose heart for nurturing extends to both her own family and her community.
Molly is passionate about healthy, clean living, from preparing wholesome meals for Gem Kids to tending her vibrant garden that reflects her love for growth and care. Whether she’s caring for her family, her pets, or the little ones at Gem Kids, she approaches each day with warmth, patience, and joy.
Her lifelong passion for supporting children’s growth and development shines through in everything she does. Molly believes in encouraging curiosity, kindness, and confidence in every child, helping them flourish in a safe and loving environment.
At Gem Kids, she brings her nurturing spirit and love for natural living to the classroom creating a space where children can learn, laugh, and bloom.
Meet Kelsey
Kelsey’s passion for early childhood education began right after high school. Where she went on to Boise State University to continue her studies in Elementary Education. Since 2020, she has worked in early learning centers and earned a Level 4 certification through Idaho STARS, reflecting her dedication to quality care and education for young children.
Kelsey enjoys spending time outdoors with her family and two Labrador retrievers—whether it’s hunting, camping, fishing, or riding their side-by-side.
Her warm personality and hands-on teaching approach make her a wonderful part of the Gem Kids team, helping children learn and grow in a fun, supportive environment.