Who We Are
Blooming Minds provides daycare and early education in a loving, safe, and caring environment.
At Blooming Minds Child Development Center, our staff members are specially qualified to teach, play, and inspire each child at their developmental level. With experience in childcare and experience as parents, our staff is devoted to making your child feel loved, safe, and engaged.
About Our Founder
As the passionate and dedicated owner of Blooming Minds Child Development Center, Mariah DePetris brings a wealth of personal and professional experience to the world of early childhood education. Mariah’s journey as a mother inspired her to create a childcare center that goes beyond traditional expectations, providing a haven for both children and parents.
Having raised two children who are just 11 months apart, Mariah understands the challenges and joys of parenting on a personal level. During her time in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, Mariah’s family discovered a daycare center that had a lasting impact. The innovative use of a childcare app provided Mariah with the peace of mind every working parent yearns for. It offered detailed insights into her children’s daily activities, from bathroom breaks to meals, and even timely reminders for events and holidays. Recognizing the transformative power of transparent communication and the positive impact it had on her own family, Mariah was determined to replicate that experience when she moved to North Carolina. Faced with the frustration of lengthy waitlists and limited communication in the available daycare centers, Mariah’s commitment to providing a better alternative was solidified.
With experience as an elementary school teacher, Mariah will combine her educational background with firsthand parenting experiences to establish Blooming Minds. With a firm belief that children deserve more than just care and love, Mariah envisions a center that fosters a sense of security, offers open communication, and provides a foundation for lifelong learning. As an educator, Mariah recognizes the importance of hands-on, child-led learning experiences. She aims to create an environment where children not only feel safe and loved, but also thrive academically, preparing them for the exciting journey ahead in elementary school. Mariah’s commitment to excellence, paired with her personal journey as a mother, positions her as the driving force behind Blooming Minds.
Mariah DePetris
Owner, Director and Lead Teacher
- 14 years experience in industry
- Elementary school teacher – 8 years
- Lead teacher at daycare center – 6 years
- Bachelor’s Degree in Early Childhood Education
- Master’s Degree in Curriculum and Instruction
- Trained in CPR, First Aid, and SIDS.
Ariana Bruno
Lead Teacher
- 12 years experience in industry
- Elementary school special education teacher – 2 years
- Lead teacher at daycare center – 7 years
- Behavior Therapist – 3 years
- Bachelors Degree in Human Services
- Trained in CPI and QBS
- Trained in CPR, First Aid, and SIDS.
Michele Bruno
Lead Teacher
- Years of experience in the industry
- Daycare owner/director – 15 years
- Lead teacher at daycare center – 10 years
- Trained in CPR, First Aid, and SIDS.
Gina Bax
Office Assistant and Floater
- Years of office and administration experience.
- Years of experience working with children with special needs.
- Trained in CPR, First Aid, and SIDS.
Ready to Enroll or Have Questions?
We’d love to hear from you.
Our goal is to prepare children for success in school and life while allowing them to be curious, caring, and imaginative to support their developing minds. We believe through play-based, hands-on activities, children are more engaged and excited to learn.
Why Choose Us
Caring & Stimulating Environment
Low Child-to-Caregivers Ratio
Integrated Communications
Safety
Curriculum
