2 minute read
Business Spotlight
BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT
Kids R Kids Learning Academy
At Kids R Kids Learning Academy of Beaumont, children are taught with kindness and love to prepare them for success in both school and in life. “Hug first, then teach” has been Kids R Kids’ motto since the very beginning, and Senior Director Billie Machal uses his 21 years of experience in early childhood education to ensure safe, inspiring childcare.
“I have a strong foundation in community resources and have a lot of experience working with multiple organizations that are beneficial to families needing childcare” says Billie. “My main focus is ensuring families receive quality and safe childcare that they deserve, and if there is a barrier hindering them from starting that process, I will work hard to conquer it.” Billie’s attitude toward quality childcare fits in well with the Kids R Kids mission, and is similar to that of founders Pat and Janice Vinson. What began as a day nursery for children turned into an international franchise with some love for children along with hard work and determination.
In 1961, Pat Vinson and his mother, June, renovated their home into a day nursery and named it Kiddie City. As group childcare wasn’t as popular in the 60s as it is today, this was a truly innovative concept, but a challenge Pat and June were ready to take on. After a decade of faith, hard work, and lovingly caring for children, the idea of franchising Kiddie City came to Pat’s mind. Thus, Kids R Kids International, Inc. was formed and Kids R Kids became the first childcare company to franchise! Even after multiple decades of providing childcare, Kids R Kids is still operating by the same philosophy they began with: providing a safe and loving environment for all children. With dedicated teachers that have been serving families for up to 25 years, Billie says that knowing he and his staff played a small role in the educational development of children is a wonderful feeling. “We are seeing some of our former students graduate from high school and college. These families often invite their former Kids R Kids teachers to participate in graduation ceremonies or send thank you cards.” Though their role has been fulfilled, Billie says they all look forward to playing an even bigger role in the future of all the children they serve. Along with their motto, Kids R Kids uses the whole-child approach to ensure each child’s success, including character, intellect, and creative development. When children feel they are treated with kindness and unconditional love, they will be more than prepared for school achievements, healthy relationships, and overall success in life. Kids R Kids accomplishes all of this through the care of expert teachers, a unique partnership with families, and of course, lots of hugs!
