My name is Erin Brandes, and I have been involved in childcare since 2012, joining the Play & Grow Learning Center team in 2013. My career in childcare began with a strong interest in working with infants and observing their environmental explorations. In August 2023, I assumed the role of Education Director, which provided me with the opportunity to gain comprehensive knowledge of administrative functions. Concurrently, I pursued further education, obtaining my Child Care Administrator Credential to go with my Associate's Degree in September 2025, both from FVTC. My favorite aspect of working in childcare is that each day presents a new challenge for my team and me to overcome. Outside of Play & Grow, I enjoy lighting a candle and relaxing reading my kindle. I also frequently attend concerts and musicals.

I am the current education director at Play and Grow Learning Center, Darboy. I have an Associate's Degree in early childhood education, and have been working with multiple early childhood age groups for the last 25 years.  I enjoy working with children as they learn, grow, discover their world, and love giving them the tools they need to achieve that!  I assumed the role of Education Director in August of 2025 and have enjoyed assisting other teachers with anything they might need or questions they might have.

Maddie started working at our Darboy location March of 2023 as a 2 year old teacher. After taking a break and exploring other career options, while still working part-time at Play and Grow, Maddie came back to the Darboy team as the new Assistant Director in February of 2025.