Ms. Laura
Founder, Director
Collaborative Teacher
The Reggio-Inspired Day Home is the realized dream of mom and educator, Laura Hou. Originally from NC, Laura holds a B.S. in Child Life from East Carolina University graduating with honors Magna Cum Laude. She moved to the DC area in 2008 to complete her internship at Children's National Medical Center and soon began her career in early education. It was at the World Bank Children’s Center where she was introduced to the Reggio-Emilia model and immediately fell in love with the approach. Two years later, Laura decided to incorporate this philosophy into a nurturing, home environment by becoming a licensed family day home provider and opened her own school in Northern VA. Since then, she has worked with many families who have been positively impacted by her program. Laura has three children of her own and two bonus children with her husband, Allen. She is passionate about partnering with families and helping young children thrive to their highest potential.
Ms. Lauren
Visiting Teacher, Substitute
Ms. Lauren Wood is a true educator at heart with decades of experience, including the implementation of the Reggio-Emilia approach and outdoor learning in preschool classrooms. Lauren graduated from the University of Delaware with degrees in Elementary Education and Home Economics and a certification in Special Education. She has taught as an elementary school teacher, middle school teacher, special education teacher, preschool teacher, and teacher's assistant. She lives in Alexandria, VA, has been married for 33 years and has 4 adult daughters. Lauren loves sports, books, creative outlets, and the beach. She enjoys subbing for the RIDH and will often bring her pet "Freddy the Frog" to visit our classrooms.
