About Us
Owners
Luis Barroso & Desiree Jones
Luis moved to the Treasure Valley in the late 80’s
He decided in high school to focus on his love for automobiles and has been an automotive technician since.
After working for a local dealerships and a few private companies, he secured a position working for the state of Idaho
Desiree grew up in Portland. She moved to the Treasure Valley in the late 90’s and never looked back.
After a few years in the work force she was blessed with a temp job that has turned into 19 years at a local label printing company
Desiree and Luis were full-time single parents when they were introduced by their kids in 2011.
They became a family of 6 in 2013, welcoming their 4th daughter
They spend as much time as possible camping in the summers and recently found a love for paddle boarding if there is a lake nearby.
The other 3 seasons are spent playing on their property, Taeknowdo classes for their youngest (and only one left at home), tending to their chickens, and spending time with family and friends
Luis spends most of his free time in his shop and Desiree loves crafting and planning themed parties.
In 2019 their first grandchild was born and they realized shortly after the great need for quality childcare.
They were further motivated by the Covid-19 Pandemic and decided they wanted to provide the community with a daycare center that understands the realities of working families and respects parental choices.
They are honored for the opportunity to make amazing experiences at Mother Goose for your little ones.
Director
Merika Barry
Born and raised in Idaho, Merika brings a deep-rooted passion for child development and education to her role. As a mother of two children who also attend the daycare, she understands the importance of a nurturing and supportive environment for young minds. Merika is committed to seeing the world through children's eyes, believing that a childlike perspective can contribute to a better world. This philosophy underpins her approach to creating a safe, enriching, and stimulating environment for all children under her care. In addition to her dedication to the children, Merika places a strong emphasis on building collaborative relationships with parents. She works closely with families to understand their children's unique needs, ensuring that each child receives personalized care and attention. Her goal is to foster a community where parents and caregivers work together to support the holistic development of every child.
Infant Teacher
Vanessa Balderas
Hello! I grew up in Caldwell and currently reside in Meridian, Idaho. I’ve been with Mother Goose for over seven months, and more than six years of experience in the childcare field. Working with children is truly my passion—I love seeing them grow and discover new things each day. In my free time, I enjoy camping, shopping, and basking in the sunshine. My absolute favorite activity is walking along the beach and traveling to new places. Becoming a teacher has been a dream of mine since childhood, which is why I’ve chosen to work with children. Every day in the nursery inspires me, knowing that I play a role in their very first school experiences. It’s such a gift to help them explore and learn about the world around them. Children bring so much joy, and their happiness is truly contagious! I’m excited to care for and love your children as if they were my own.
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Teacher
Kristina Austin
Teacher
Sydnee Foreman
Hello I’m Sydnee! I’m a native Idahoan from Middleton! As the youngest of a large family I grew up with a lot of nieces and nephews I have always enjoyed being around children and watching them grow! I believe you can learn a lot from children! In my free time, I’m usually at my studio doing facials and waxing! I also love going camping and fishing in the summer! I look forward to meeting you and your children!
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Afternoon Teacher
Rebecca Flores
Assistant Teacher & Food Coordinator.
Teacher
Daisy Herr
Mrs Daisy
Hello! I may not have been born in Idaho, but I got here as fast as I could! My family moved here in 2016 and when I first visited I absolutely fell in love with the big open skies, beautiful landscapes, and freedoms this state provides. My husband and I were married in 2019, and moved to Idaho less than a year later. Last year we welcomed our precious baby girl, Meadow Mae, into the world! I stayed home with her until I received this amazing opportunity to get back to my passion of working with children, while being able to bring my daughter along.
I have an adventurous soul that yearns to be outdoors! Nearly every weekend of my summer is spent camping and exploring a new corner of Idaho. I enjoy hiking, fishing, kayaking, and swimming in our rivers. In the cooler seasons I enjoy attending community events like farmers markets, harvest festivals, holiday events, and simply supporting my community as much as I can!
I have known since I was a teenager that my passion, interest, and skills lie in working with children. I started as a babysitter and continued on to work as a tutor, assistant preschool teacher, nanny, and most recently as an elementary reading co-teacher. I have an associate degree in child development and am currently pursuing my bachelor's in elementary education.
I am looking forward to this next endeavor in my life as a working mom. I am excited to return to doing what I love. I cannot wait to share special moments and make lasting memories with the children I will have the honor to care for here at Mother Goose!
Teacher
Holding
Afternoon Teacher
Brooklyn Thacker