Today we’d like to introduce you to Chrishawn Sanford.
Chrishawn, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
I’d like to say my journey began the moment my 1st child was born. I was a 19 years old college student majoring in education. My family rotated days taking care of my daughter as my husband and I worked and went to school. Three months later, we became pregnant with our second child.
We didn’t want to place more responsibility on our family, with a second baby so we made the decision to find childcare. Being that my major was education I searched for daycare centers that offered academics along with affordability. My children attended seven daycare’s through the course of my college career. I was never satisfied with curriculum as it never seemed that my children were being challenged. I made the decision to quit my job and care for my children after graduating in 2009. I obtained my degree with the hopes of quickly finding a teaching position but I realized there was a need for affordable early education centers. I’m May of 2010 I along with my family began caring for children in home under the name Tiny Tots Learning Center in Pearland, TX. Within 30 days of opening my in-home center was to max capacity.
For two years, I operated out of my 1200 sq ft apartment. One day fire marshals came to my door and informed me I had 30 days to close. I had no clue what I was going to do but I began to pray and look for a commercial building. My grandmother passed which provided my parents with funds and My grandfather had recently retired, They believed in my dream and decided to give me a portion of their money to help birth my vision of Little Children’s Learning Center. February 14, 2012 by the grace of God Little Children’s Learning Center was licensed and open for operation.
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
Operating a childcare center is rewarding and trying. Being a young entrepreneur, starting at 24, people underestimated my ability. In the beginning, I had to prove myself worthy of educating, nurturing, and being a responsible business owner. I also struggled with wanting more for children then some parents wanted for their children. I wholeheartedly believe that every child is sent by God for a purpose. Trying to figure out that purpose and what I or my staff needs to give is difficult at times. I learned that I am worthy and I may not always know what Gods intentions are and that’s ok.
Little Children’s Learning Center – what should we know? What do you do best? What sets you apart from others?
Little Children’s Learning Center exists to build a solid foundation for a successful future. We provide an affordable early childhood learning experience. Our school participates in Texas Rising Star, which means we are committed to offering high-quality childcare. We develop the whole child and ensure they are Grade school ready. Children transition with the ability to read, write, compute simple math, work in groups and independently. We are most proud of the success stories and the memories we make daily. We are a family.
What is “success” or “successful” for you?
I personally define success as capturing the heart of a child. When you capture a child’s heart it is then you are able to pour into them. The child respects and trust that you will give them direction. Lightbulbs come on, behavior is changed, smiles and hugs are given and you are now successful.
Contact Info:
- Website: Www.littlechildrenslearning.com
- Phone: 8327122612
- Instagram: Littlechildrenslc
- Facebook: Little Children’s Learning Center
Image Credit:
Primitive Focus Jerry Battle III
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