Barbara Lazaar, owner and self-proclaimed chief cook and bottle washer of Pooh and Friends in Tarrytown, has always worked with children. "I enjoy it and I'm glad I'm here," she said.

Now into its third year, Pooh and Friends provides care for children from six weeks to pre-kindergarten. Lazaar, a former elementary teacher and school administrator, said there is always a need for good quality day care. She and her staff provide a more intimate atmosphere for children and their parents with small groups. "You get to know the kids and families really well," Lazaar said.

Lazaar also prepares every child for the school experience through cognitive and physical learning. "I'm trying to get the kids to think," she said, "and not simply be told." Lazaar is developing a new direction for the school to take by providing dual exposure to English and Spanish, integrating Spanish into their everyday lessons.

Pooh and Friends is open Monday through Friday from 7 am to 6 pm. They are located at 492 Benedict Avenue in Tarrytown. For any questions, call (914) 631-1939 or visit www.poohandfriends.net.