About Us
Greg & Karen Sowards
Owner
Kid’s Kountry, LLC is a privately owned network of childcare centers committed to providing a safe, nurturing, and enriching environment where children can learn, grow, and thrive. The company is led by Greg, who holds a degree in Education, and Karen, who has earned her Child Development Associate (CDA) credential. Together, they bring decades of combined experience in early childhood education and parenting, having raised six children of their own. Their shared knowledge and hands-on experience shape the values and vision of Kid’s Kountry.
Families are drawn to the calm, clean, and open atmosphere of our centers, thoughtfully designed to support both meaningful learning and joyful play. Each classroom is equipped with up-to-date educational materials, age-appropriate toys, books, and learning equipment that encourage curiosity, creativity, and development at every stage.
Our dedicated staff members engage in ongoing professional development throughout the year to stay current with best practices in early childhood education. Every employee has successfully completed an FBI background check and maintains current certifications in CPR and Basic First Aid, ensuring the highest standards of safety and care.
Kid’s Kountry is more than just a childcare center—it is a welcoming community where children and families feel supported, valued, and at home as they grow and learn together.
Nikki de León
Early Childhood Specialist
Nikki de Leon has been a dedicated member of the Kid’s Kountry team since 2008, bringing with her years of experience, commitment, and passion for early childhood education. She began her career with Kid’s Kountry as a childcare provider while working toward her Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education at New Mexico State University. From the start, Nikki demonstrated a strong understanding of child development and a genuine care for the children and families she served.
Throughout her time with Kid’s Kountry, Nikki has held multiple positions within the organization, gaining valuable experience across various roles. This broad background has naturally led her to her current position as the Early Childhood Specialist for the Kid’s Kountry Child Care facilities in Las Cruces. In this role, she provides guidance, support, and leadership to teaching staff, helping ensure high-quality, developmentally appropriate care and learning environments across all centers.
Nikki and her husband, Julian, are the proud parents of two young children, which further deepens her connection to the families she serves. She has a true talent for inspiring excellence and consistency among the many teachers she works with, fostering a culture of quality, compassion, and professionalism. Families can feel confident, comfortable, and pleased knowing their children are enrolled in a program guided by Nikki’s experience, leadership, and dedication to exceptional early childhood care.
Barbara Avalos
Program Director
Barbara Avalos has been a dedicated and valued member of the Kids Kountry team since 2013, when she joined the organization after earning her Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education from New Mexico State University. She began her career with Kids Kountry as a Pre-K teacher, where her passion for early learning, strong work ethic, and natural leadership quickly became evident. From the very beginning, Barbara proved herself to be an all-around asset to the company, consistently stepping in to support multiple departments and contributing wherever she was needed.
Through years of hands-on experience and a deep commitment to professional growth, Barbara continued to expand her skills and knowledge. After earning her Master’s degree in Administration, she was promoted to the role of Program Director, a position in which she plays a vital role in guiding programs, supporting staff, and ensuring high-quality educational experiences across the organization. Her leadership is marked by both professionalism and compassion, making her a trusted mentor and advocate for teachers, children, and families alike.
As a mother of three, Barbara brings a personal understanding of the importance of creating a safe, nurturing, and positive environment for every child. She takes great pride in fostering spaces where children can learn, grow, and thrive, and where families feel confident and supported. Her dedication, experience, and heartfelt commitment to early childhood education continue to make a lasting impact on Kids Kountry and the communities it serves.
