Meet Karen

A caring professional behind the care

Professional responsibility, with warmth and patience.

Hi, I'm Karen. Eight years with little ones — playing, reading, helping with routines, and making sure they feelsafe and happy. I care for your kids the way I'd want mine cared for.

What I love most:

  • Park trips
  • Arts & crafts
  • Songs & rhymes
  • Gentle school-readiness
  • Spanish, naturally
Patient, playful, and dependable. I want your child to feel safe and happy, and I want you to feel completely at ease.
Karen ZapataEarly childhood educator · Marin & Sonoma

Children thrive when they feel safe, respected and encouraged.

What you can expect from me

Consistency, respect & peace of mind

Safety first

Your child's safety and well-being are always the priority.

Genuine connection

I take the time to build trust with every child.

Engaging days

Learning through play, creativity, reading and movement.

Your family's way

Your routines, values and parenting style come first.

Clear communication

You'll always know how your children are doing.

Why families trust me

Certified, trained & background-ready

Your child's safety comes first. Here's the training and certification behind my care.

  • Bachelor's in Early Childhood EducationEscuela Normal José Dolores Rodríguez Tamayo · 4-year program · 2018
  • CPR & Pediatric First AidCurrent certification · renewed every 2 years
  • Preventive Health Practices for Child CareUCSF California Childcare Health Program · 2024
  • Child Abuse & Neglect Mandated ReporterCA Dept. of Social Services (CDSS) · 2024
  • Being an Intentional Partner in PlayLakeshore Learning Materials · Professional Services Group · 2024
  • Coursework in child psychology & childcarePlus references available on request
UCSF California Childcare Health Program, Preventive Health Practices for Child Care Providers certificate, January 2024
Preventive Health Practices · UCSF (2024)
California Department of Social Services, Child Abuse & Neglect Mandated Reporter Training certificate, October 2024
Mandated Reporter Training · CDSS (2024)
Lakeshore Professional Services Group certificate for Karen Zapata, Being an Intentional Partner in Play, January 2024
Intentional Partner in Play · Lakeshore (2024)
Pediatric First Aid and CPR AED certification card for Karen Zapata, EMSA California, valid through 2028
Pediatric First Aid & CPR AED · valid through 2028
Kind words from families

In their own handwriting

Real thank-you notes from families I've cared for. Tap any card to see the original.

Thank you for being so great to Conor over the years. He LOVES you. We are so thankful we met you.
RuairíConor's dad
Thank you for taking such good care of our Isla this past year and a half! We are so grateful for your warm presence.
Katia & JasonIsla's parents
Thank you for the wonderful care you have given Otie. We are so grateful for the love you have given.
Tess & SamOtie's parents
Muchas gracias por brindar una atención tan maravillosa a Ginny. ¡Somos muy afortunados de tenerte!
The CruitsGinny's family
Thank you for all that you have done to help with Conor. We appreciate you.
LexiConor's mom
Thank you for taking so good care of Daisie and Sigrid.
Dan & BrittDaisie & Sigrid's parents
Availability

When I'm available

Weekends all day · Weekdays after 5:30 pm · Open on holidays too

November 2026
1234
All day After 5:30 pm Custom hours Holiday Not available
The right fit

It starts with a conversation

Tell me about your children and your routine. If we're a good fit, we take the next step together.