For over 20 years, Munchkin Minders has been one of the greatest honors of my life. Supporting families, caring for children, and helping parents feel safe and supported has shaped who I am in ways I could never have imagined.

Many of you have trusted me with your children, your homes, your schedules, and some of the most important moments of your lives. That trust has never been taken lightly. It has always been rooted in one simple intention …to care for families with heart, integrity, and compassion.

Over the years, something beautiful began to unfold alongside my work with Munchkin Minders. As I supported children and families, I also began noticing something deeply important…

Mothers …and fathers rarely have safe spaces to be cared for themselves.

I watched incredible parents pour love, energy, time, and emotional labor into everyone around them. I saw strength, resilience, and devotion and I also saw exhaustion, overwhelm, and a deep longing for rest and reconnection.

That awareness quietly led me toward another path of service.

The Birth of Dragonfly Moon Retreats

About five years ago, after deepening my personal yoga and meditation practice, completing my 200-hour Yoga Teacher Training, and stepping into retreat leadership, I began creating and managing wellness retreats for heart-centered individuals and entrepreneurs.

Since then, I have had the privilege of helping facilitate and lead retreats in Western North Carolina, California, Hot Springs, Southwest France, Costa Rica and Italy, holding space for individuals seeking rest, healing, reflection, and connection.

While this work may feel new to some of you, the heart behind it is exactly the same heart that built Munchkin Minders.

• It is still about care.
• It is still about creating safe, nurturing environments.
• It is still about helping people feel supported, seen, and held.

Only now, that care is also being extended directly to mothers, fathers, caregivers, and those who spend so much of their lives giving to others.

Why Retreats Matter, Especially for parents!

Modern parenthood and family life can be incredibly beautiful and also incredibly demanding.

Many mothers …and fathers move through years, sometimes decades, focused on caring for everyone else while quietly placing their own needs at the bottom of the list. Over time, this can leave even the strongest, most loving parents feeling disconnected from themselves.

Retreats offer something rare and deeply needed:

• Space to rest without responsibility
• Time to reconnect with body, breath, and inner voice
• Supportive community with other parents
• Opportunities to reset the nervous system
• Permission to simply receive instead of give

When parents are supported, rested, and reconnected with themselves, it creates a ripple effect that benefits their entire families.

A Sacred Remembering Retreat

Mendocino Coast, California
June 7–12, 2026

I am honored to share our upcoming retreat along the breathtaking Mendocino Coast, co-facilitated with my husband, Theo Chappell, who offers meditation, QiGong, and deeply grounding mindfulness practices.

“You are not a drop in the ocean. You are the entire ocean in a drop.” 

~ Rumi

A Sacred Remembering Retreat Mendocino Coast, California

This retreat is called A Sacred Remembering Retreat, and its intention is simple but profound:

To help us come home to themselves… rested, rooted, and whole.

This 6-day, 5-night retreat will be held near the meeting place of redwood forests and the Pacific Ocean — a setting that naturally invites stillness, reflection, and renewal.

The Retreat Includes:

• • Gentle, accessible yoga
  • Meditation and mindfulness practices
  • QiGong for energy balance and stress relief
  • Time in nature along the Mendocino coastline
  • Restorative practices and deep relaxation
  • Meaningful connection and community
  • Spacious personal reflection time

A Sacred Remembering Retreat Mendocino Coast, California

At Munchkin Minders, the secret to our success is simple: it’s our sitters. They are the heart of what we do, and nothing lights them up more than working group events.

Whether it’s a wedding, Marine Corps Ball, military function, corporate party, or holiday celebration, our sitters show up with excitement, creativity, and a genuine love for kids. They’ll tell you that group events are some of their favorites—because the kids are so much fun, the parents are so grateful, and they get to work side by side with their fellow sitters. The energy is contagious!

Why Our Sitters Love It ❤️

The laughter of kids — from toddlers giggling over bubbles to older kids teaming up in games.

The joy of parents — knowing they can enjoy the party while their children are safe and happy.

The bond with their team — sitters love collaborating, cheering each other on, and sharing ideas to make each event extra special.

Our sitters don’t just supervise. They engage. They get down on the floor to play, lead crafts with creativity, and join in games with as much enthusiasm as the kids. They build trust quickly—kids feel it, parents see it, and hosts appreciate it.

A Glimpse Into Our World

Creating Memories in Stunning Places

Since 2006 (coming up on our 20-year anniversary!), our sitters have worked in some of the most beautiful venues across Southern California, including:

✨ The Hotel Del Coronado
✨ Fairmont Grand Del Mar
✨ La Valencia in La Jolla
✨ The Lodge at Torrey Pines
✨ Estancia La Jolla
✨ Omni La Costa Resort, Carlsbad
✨ San Diego Mission Bay Resort
✨ Loews Coronado
✨ Manchester Grand Hyatt
✨ Park Hyatt
✨ Four Seasons
✨ Seabird Resort in Oceanside
✨ Camp Pendleton
✨ Gorgeous wineries in Temecula
✨ …and many more!

One standout memory? Our team recently provided childcare for a high-profile wedding at a stunning art museum in Balboa Park. Surrounded by art and history, the kids were just as enchanted as the adults, making crafts and games that turned the day into their own masterpiece.

What Makes Us Different

Our sitters are more than caregivers—they’re a dream team of kid experts who truly love what they do. They don’t just supervise; they engage. From leading crafts to jumping into games, or offering comfort to a shy little one, they bring professionalism, energy, and heart to every single event.

We’re so proud of the joy our team spreads and the trust we’ve built with families and hosts over the last two decades. Every party, every wedding, every ball reminds us why we love this work so much.

Sitters Who Truly Care

Ask any of our sitters why they love these events, and you’ll hear the same thing: “Because the kids are amazing, the parents are happy, and we get to do it together.”

That’s the Munchkin Minders difference. It’s not just childcare—it’s passion, teamwork, and heart. We’re honored to be part of these milestone moments, and our sitters can’t wait to keep making magic for years to come.

Much love,
Danielle
Owner/Creator
Munchkin Minders fun & creative sitters & nannies!

Hey there, wonderful families! It’s Danielle, the proud owner of Munchkin Minders, and I’m here to share a fantastic way to spend quality time with your kids while having a blast. Say hello to pickleball! This exciting sport is perfect for all ages and is a wonderful way to stay active together. So, grab your paddles, and let’s dive into the world of pickleball fun!

What is Pickleball?

Pickleball is a delightful mix of tennis, badminton, and ping-pong. Played on a smaller court with a net, paddles, and a whiffle-like ball, it’s easy to learn and oh-so-fun to play. You can team up as singles or doubles, making it the perfect game for family time. Even your littlest munchkins can get in on the action!

Why Play Pickleball with Your Kids?

1. Fun and Engaging: With its fast pace and easy-to-learn rules, pickleball is sure to keep your kids excited and entertained.
2. Get Moving: It’s a fantastic way to sneak in some exercise for everyone, improving fitness and coordination.
3. Family Bonding: Playing together strengthens family bonds and creates cherished memories.
4. Everyone Can Play: The smaller court and simple rules make pickleball accessible to all ages and skill levels.

Getting Started

Starting your pickleball adventure is a breeze. Here’s what you need:

• Paddles: Each player needs a paddle. Choose ones that are comfy for everyone.
• Pickleballs: These lightweight plastic balls with holes are a must. Find them online or at your local sporting goods store.
• Net: No court? No problem! A portable net works wonders in your driveway or backyard.

Check out this awesome starter set to get you going: Pickleball Starter Set. Pickleball Family Set

Tips for Playing with Kids

1. Keep it Simple: Adjust the rules to make it easy and fun for younger kids.
2. Short and Sweet: Short games keep kids engaged and full of energy.
3. Team Up: Play doubles to promote teamwork and cooperation.
4. Celebrate Wins: Every point is a reason to celebrate and keep the game joyful.

For Serious Players

If your family catches the pickleball bug and wants to step up their game, I’ve got just the thing for you! This advanced set is perfect for those looking to improve their skills: Advanced Pickleball Set.

Making Pickleball a Family Tradition

Why not make pickleball a regular family event? Choose a time each week for some friendly competition and laughs. Invite other families for a mini-tournament and double the fun!

Conclusion

Pickleball is a gem of a game for families. It’s easy to learn, inclusive, and packed with fun. Plus, it’s a brilliant way to stay active and create wonderful family memories. So, grab your paddles, set up your net, and let the pickleball adventures begin!

Don’t forget to check out these fantastic sets to get you started:

• Pickleball Starter Set
• Pickleball Familyt Set
• Advanced Pickleball Set

Here’s to happy playing and unforgettable family fun!

Warmest regards, Danielle – Owner of Munchkin Minders

I have always loved traveling, so when my kids came along, that didn’t stop me. I just had to be a bit more prepared. Traveling with young children, especially if you’re a new parent, can seem daunting, but also can be rewarding to share travel and adventure with the munchkins. You don’t need to delay anymore. Our first big trip was to Puerto Vallarta when my first son was 18 months old.

Where to go?

Anywhere! You can stay local and explore your home state, you can travel across the country, take a cruise and fly to exotic destinations. If you are prepared you can go anywhere. We did!

We traveled up the California coast with a pop up camper, took longer trips to Arizona, Utah and New Mexico and then longer trips across the country to New York, Maine and back in an RV. We also took various trips to Hawaii and Mexico and as the boys got older we took trips to Spain, France, Copenhagen, UK, and Iceland.

Road Trip Essentials

Some of my best memories were traveling with my dad and sister in his van across from San Diego to New York and back.

You can travel in anything …a van, bus, car or RV

We have done it all. We had a pop up camper, a car and tent and later we invested in an RV. It depends on you. If you love it, chances are your kids will too.  Tent camping allows you to be closer to nature, campers give you the ease and comfort of sleeping in a bed. I love it all.  My boys loved the RV the best, because they could get out of the elements when they wanted too. I loved the RV because everything had its place and we could pick up and go at any time without too much prep.

Make a go-bag

Wherever you go make a go-bag! Those essentials depend on your kids’ ages and where your trip takes you. Are you potty training? Maybe your go-bag is a mini diaper bag with a spare diaper, wipes, hand sanitizer, and various related accessories, and a change of big-boy/girl underwear and clean pants. In other words, everything you need to get out of the car and get everyone cleaned up in a hurry. You don’t want to be digging around the trunk looking for this and that when there’s a puddle in the parking lot.

If your kids are older, maybe your go-bag looks more like an entertainment kit with spare chargers for electronics, a book, or their favorite travel-sized games to easily transition from car to hotel. Someone is always hungry! Pack some snacks.

Pack everyone’s favorite snacks

My boys were always hungry, so I never liked to be out and about without food. I am a health nerd, so I would try to fit that in. I love nuts, dried fruit, meat sticks, popcorn, and seaweed snacks.  I also love to bake, so I would make muffins or banana bread sometimes too. Fun food is important too, so I would include some sweet treats and crunchy snacks as well.  Make it tasty and fun!

Remember that your nutrition is important too. Parenting on the best of days is hard enough. Parenting when you’re hangry is even tougher, so be sure to throw in some easy, healthy snacks for yourself.

Prepare bottles

How do you travel with little kids who are still taking a bottle? In a sentence, have your bottles prepared and in the diaper bag. That’s something else you probably won’t regret.

Grab a blanket

You never know when the plane or car is going to get too hot or too cold.  The people sitting up front always think the A/C is too high, and the backseat never gets enough air. You probably know the struggle from even short trips around town. A snuggly travel blanket is great for individualized climate control, but it makes for an excellent pillow, so their head isn’t knocking against the window during car naps.

Prepare for kids to get bored

I bring lots of games, books and toys. Sometimes the radio can be fun, but also unpredictable, especially if your road trip takes you to some remote areas, and kids hate commercials, so it’s a good idea to bring a device to download shows, music, movies and books in advance.

Most cars are enabled with Bluetooth technology and you haven’t already done so, connect your phone to the car to have on-demand music/entertainment for your kids. Make sure everyone has headphones or earbuds in case they want to listen on their own devices.

Kids get bored very easily, so a phone or tablet to be able to flip on their favorite song or show or whatever music they love can make a long car or plane trip fly by and help a sad or bored kid find their happy place.

You might be taking a vacation with your family to disconnect from technology and reconnect with each other. If that’s you, these tips might not be a good fit. But if you’re OK with everyone still having a bit of screen time, these tips can help.

Take Your Time. Relax. And Be Positive.

Traveling with kids, as it is with life in general, is sometimes more about the journey than the destination. Take your time. If your kids get unruly while you’re driving, simply pull off at an exit or rest area and let them burn off some energy. If they see something that interests them, bend the itinerary and let them explore this new discovery.

Lastly, try to relax and stay positive. Getting frustrated and having a negative attitude will only make things worse for everyone. You want your children to love to travel as much as you do, and staying positive is the best way to do that.

Should you bring your pet?

We loved bringing our pup, Teddy on road trips. If you don’t have a tent or camper, there are a lot of hotels that take pets now. Pack your pups favorits bed, food, treats meds and toys. We also brought a small collapsible crate in case we had to leave him behind in the hotel or camper. Make sure their environment is temperature controlled too!  Oh and be prepared to stop for lots of walks too.

Try not to be too rigid with your itinerary

I remember a time we were exploring Iceland and my oldest son kept asking us to pull over so he could climb a hill. So we finally pulled over. He and his dad climbed the hill and they discovered a huge cinder cone from an old volcano at the top! Me and my youngest hung back to explore the lower areas and we found hundreds of blueberries growing all along on the hillside. That is one of my most favorite memories.

Whatever you decide to go, if you enjoy it, good chance your little ones will too!

As our boys got older we had them join in on the planning process. They helped us in finding interesting and unique destinations to visit. They also helped with navigating, booking hotels and various tours and activities. Now, at 19 and 21 years old, they have the travel bug and are avid travelers themselves. They are confident in exploring new destinations and finding their way around.

I loved reading to my boys when they were younger. Curling up on the couch or snuggling in bed and reading stories are some of my warmest and fondest memories. There are so many benefits to reading for you and your babies. I also encourage our Munchkin Minders sitters and nannies to do the same. The munchkins seem to love the sweet connective one on one time they get when reading with their parents and care providers.

Benefits of reading to babies
• Great opportunity for extra cuddles, strengthening the growing bond with your baby
• Introduces language and communication skills
• Reading to babies helps exercise their brain
• Supports the development of children’s vocabulary
• Is a great wind down inclusion for some quiet time before bed

Benefits of reading with young children
• Reading supports the development of early literacy skills
• Reading stories has shown to support children’s brain development particularly cognitive and communication skills
• Including specific reading time daily encourages children to focus and concentrate
• Encouraging children to read aloud can support speech and language skills
• Reading together supports children’s social skills
• Reading together supports the bond between adult and child

Benefits of encouraging independent reading in children
• Children learn to value books
• Children learn about culture, history and the world through reading stories
• Reading sparks children’s imagination, creativity and curiosity
• Reading provides an outlet for children, whether they need some quiet time or a positive distraction from any stress they may be experiencing
• Children learn the difference between “real” and “fantasy” by exposing them to both non-fiction and fiction books
• Providing children with their own reading area or bookshelf with books just for them also encourages caring for the books

Top tips for reading with children
• Let your child choose which book to read
• Engage in the story, by altering your tone of voice and giving life to the words on the page
• Connect with your child, if they want to turn the pages or tell part of the story, let them! Even if it’s not the same as what’s written in front of them, supporting their independence and creativity
• Repetition is your friend, even if you’ve read the same story over and over again there’s actually proven benefits to this.
• Enjoy it! Enjoy the story, enjoy the moment of peace, enjoy the bonding time with your child, enjoy the extra cuddles, simply enjoy the experience.

With love,

Danielle

~Munchkin Minders

Many of today’s stay at home moms are finding that they can use a helping hand around the house and a nanny might be the way to fill that need. Hiring a nanny is a wonderful way to get some much needed time to yourself.

Here are 11 reasons why some stay-at-home moms might need a nanny.

You Can Focus on Your Children

It may sound strange that having someone help care for your children can actually help you focus more on them, but it’s true. Burnout is a problem many stay-at-home moms face when they’re taking care of kids 24/7. You can’t even go to the bathroom without someone banging on the door or put the dishes away without little ones needing more mommy time.

A nanny can step in to take care of your children when you need something as simple as a bath or someone to watch the kids while you go to the grocery store without the munchkins hanging off the side of your grocery cart. Nannies can also help with those essential tasks, like laundry, dishes, and even cooking. Yes, you stay home with your family all day and could do all of those things every single day but wouldn’t you rather more quality time with your kids?

Hiring a nanny can give you more time to actually focus on your children without feeling like you’re the one and only one. The time you have with your kids is precious and being able to commit your attention to them without having a long to-do list hanging over your head lets you be mom without any distractions tearing you away.

You Can Focus on Yourself

Raising a family and managing your household doesn’t leave much time for taking care of yourself. Its so important to have time to take care of our needs too.

Take better care of yourself by hiring help if you think you need it. A nanny can take some of that pressure you’re putting out, so that you can spend that time on yourself instead. You deserve it. Recharging and taking a break from time to time will make you a mom who’s better able to handle all of those daily parenting challenges that come your way!

You Don’t Have to Do It Alone

In multiple generations ago, everyone lived under one roof to help raise children. For example, parents, grandparents and siblings, would all live in the family home and everyone contributed to the care of the children and household chores.

 American households are no longer multigenerational, grandparents may not necessarily be moving in solely to help raise the children, However, their presence in the home eases the modern-day do-it-yourself attitude stay-at-home moms experience when they can use some additional hands to help out with the kids and around the house.

You Don’t Live Near Family

It can be a challenge if your don’t have family in town to help out.  You don’t have family who can just pop over several times a week to watch the kids while Mom goes to an exercise class or for a date night so Mom and Dad can enjoy a date night. Not having any family around can put a lot of strain on you to be Supermom when you don’t have to be.

You Need Stress Relief

For some, having a nanny who’s a stranger, at least at first, seems like too much stress on top of raising kids and managing every aspect of your home. For others, having a nanny can help decrease those daily stress levels.

A nanny can fill in the gaps to help your household run more smoothly. Instead of having a to-do list that includes the laundry, dishes, cooking, picking up the kids from school and running two children in opposite directions simultaneously to soccer practice and dance lessons, you have a nanny to step in and take charge of the tasks you can’t do as a human who can’t be in two places at once.

Your Nanny Provides Convenience

How often has it been time to go pick up your other children from school and your baby has just fallen asleep in her crib? Or, as much as you love them, how about those days when you’re simply too sick to care for your children?

Having a nanny is convenient. Let the baby enjoy her nap while you or the nanny pick up the kids at school. When you’re too sick to stand, you can rest assured that your nanny will take good care of the kids so you can get better. A nanny is sometimes a much-needed convenience to today’s family and the busy lifestyle they lead.

She Can Be an Extension of You

The right nanny follows your parenting directions when it comes to discipline, beliefs and even teaching methods. The key is to agree upon all of your expectations, from household tasks to child care preferences, before hiring your nanny.

An experienced nanny adapts to the rules you’ve set out and essentially becomes another you. She doesn’t contradict your parenting style and becomes your right-hand woman, so to speak, offering her help just as you would if you could clone yourself. She’s not you and she never will be, of course, but her presence makes your life easier.

A Nanny Can Be a Great Companion

Above all, a nanny is your employee. However, she can also be a great companion.

Stay-at-home moms often live in isolation. They may not have much in common with other at-home parents or they simply don’t have time to go on outings with others. A nanny can become a trusted companion. She has a vested interest in taking care of your children and knows them much like you do. You’re not trying to buy a friend here, but your nanny is in your home, caring for your children and can become a part of your household.

The right nanny can also become a companion to your kids. She’s not their mother at all. But you can leave her in charge of your household and know your kids have a companion who cares about them while caring for the

A Nanny Provides Consistency and Reliability

Hiring a nanny with a regular schedule, even on a part-time basis, can provide consistency and reliability.

A nanny is a professional and a constant in your home once hired. She can be there on a set schedule during the hours you agree upon in the hiring process. Her presence gives your family someone who’s reliable and who you can count on without having to rely on someone else’s fluctuating schedule or a day care’s strict hours.

She Helps You Be More Efficient

You take care of everyone and that can often mean you’re pulled in many directions at the same time. You can’t seem to get one thing accomplished because you’re trying to get 100 things accomplished all at once.

With a nanny, you can establish a list of priorities she must follow so you can also set up your own list of priorities. You’ll become more efficient in everything you do and get more of your goals accomplished, too.

A Nanny Doesn’t Have to Be Full-Time or Permanent

Having a nanny doesn’t mean you’re rich. Many household budgets can’t afford the luxury of a full-time nanny. While nannies are typically a premium childcare option, many part-time nannies have rates that can fit into your family’s budget and schedule nicely.

Another option is to hire a nanny on a trial basis. You may only need a nanny temporarily, such as after you have a baby or if your family is facing a situation that would alter your usual schedule. Having a nanny doesn’t have to be a long-term commitment.

Your Family’s Needs Matter the Most. Do you need a nanny? Bottom line, it’s your decision. If having a part- or full-time nanny makes your life easier, then it is worth it. If mommy is happy then so are the munchkins!

Please reach out to learn more abour Munchkin Minders nanny placements.

Finding a great nanny takes time and patience… 

The process can take anywhere between a few weeks to a few months, and you want to ensure your Nanny is the perfect fit for you and your family. Most important, you want whoever you hire to fully understand your child’s and family’s needs and to have the experience needed to best care for your family.

This is why it is important to hire a company who cares about kids and families. We at Munchkin Minders take our job seriously and are thorough in our vetting process.

The Interview is the first step

Munchkin Minders sets up in person or virtual interviews with each of our candidates. We like to spend at least a 1/2 hour for the first interview. We really want to get to know our candidates and learn about who they are and what they are looking for in a nanny position. We want to know their loves, there likes and their challenges. We ask about their future plans and goals. We want to know where they live, who they live with, what they do in their spare time and most importantly, why do they want to work with kids! We really want to hear that they have a passion for working with children. We want candidates who LOVE kids and have a passion for working with them. We want to know they have children’s best interests at heart.

We always check references!

Checking previous employment references confirm Nanny’s background and gives us confidence in their experience and knowledge. If you choose to use a childcare agency like us, we will have already checked their references. You are encouraged to read through our notes and/or contact previous employers for yourself. This can be a great way for you to speak with the parents and ask any additional questions you may have which will assist you in deciding if you have found a suitable candidate.

CPR and First Aid Knowledge

Regardless of a child’s needs, Nannies should always have up to date pediatric First Aid certifications, this will give you some peace of mind that your nanny will know how to react quickly, efficiently, and calmly in case of emergency.

We conduct Background screenings

Munchkin Minders runs all of our candidates through a reputable background screening company. We check the candidates Social Security status, national criminal background records, DMV records and Sex offender reports. We can also run the Nanny through Trustline Registry that includes fingerprints through Live Scan.

Munchkin Minders number one priority is finding you a Nanny that works best for your individual family. Every family has different wants and needs and it is important for us to learn what those are from you. We love what we do here at Munchkin Minders and look forward to working with you in finding the best match for your munchkins!

This is interesting motivator! What do you all think of this?

Vax for the Win

California’s vaccine incentive program

Get vaccinated, get rewarded

Are you already vaccinated or about to be? Great! You’ll have a chance at winning $50,000 or a grand prize of $1.5 million!

Not yet vaccinated against COVID-19? Get vaccinated as soon as possible to be eligible for these cash prizes! You’ll also get a $50 incentive card.

Everyone who’s vaccinated can get a free taco at Taco Bell, Chipotle queso blanco, and special deals on merchandise from the LA Clippers, Golden State Warriors, and the Team LA Store at STAPLES Center. It’s California’s way of saying thank you for helping us beat the pandemic!

https://covid19.ca.gov/vax-for-the-win/

https://www.munchkinminders.com/1029-2/