Travelling with children is often full of challenges. How can you balance making sure they are comfortable and entertained? Ayana Rodriguez, founder of the unique Itavi Kids service and mother of three, is changing the way we think about family vacations by offering premium experiences for kids. We talked to Ayana about how she came up with the idea and what it means to offer a really good service for families.
What was the inspiration behind Itavi Kids?
Being a mother of three, I experienced many challenges when searching for a childcare provider I trusted with my kids. This challenge inspired me to create a new approach to childcare. That is how Itavi was created. I am proud of developing a service/experience, with the mission of a purposeful approach to childcare. I have done this by utilizing a strategy that takes into consideration all the stakeholders, investors, parents and children alike, who ultimately share the same objective of simplifying the process, providing accountability, being truly trustworthy, and perhaps most importantly, fun!
Grateful for the growth and opportunities , especially when that growth comes along with sharing my perspective on being adaptable and open to new approaches to childcare.
Itavi Kids is different from the traditional idea of a nanny or a babysitting service. It's more than just a place to play. It's about helping children grow in different ways. Tell us more about what Itavi offers.
Childcare is an emotional topic. Our children are our most prized possession. How do we define trust when it is tied so tightly to emotional and personal responses? Itavi creates a process that is seamless, accountable and sustainable when it comes to setting standards on what childcare should look like. Our mission is linked to gaining the trust of all those involved, be they child care professionals, children, parents or hotel organizations.
The team is an extremely important part of the success. What should Itavi Kids' employees be like?
The vetting process to be an Itavi employee is extensive and thorough. The process includes background checks, emotional intelligence testing & training.
How do you balance being a mom, a wife, and a business owner?
I make sure to dedicate a balance of time to all three roles. They are all important, incorporating resolve when and where needed. Take the moments that present as an opportunity to learn.
Your project also brings up the importance of time for parents to be alone. What does this mean personally to you in the system of family values?
Memorable experiences are key when it comes to traveling with your family. I want to make sure parents and working moms like myself can engage in authentic experiences with their spouse while their kids have a unique experience and lasting memories.
How many hotels now have Itavi Kids? Do you plan to partner with other hotels around the world?
Itavi is available through out South Florida, including exclusive partnerships with luxury hotels, including Acqualina, 1 Hotel South Beach, The Biltmore, and Fontainebleau, Boca Raton, & Pier Sixty- Six to name a few. Now, the itavi is accessible in Maui, Hawaii, and partners with two luxury hotels on the island: The Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea and The Grand Wailea, A Waldorf Astoria Resort.
If you could describe Itavi in 3-5 words, what would they be?
Premium child care service!