JUST FOR KIDS - CHILD CARE FACILITIES

It Takes a Village

Columbus’ child care centers leave a positive impact on the children they serve.

A BRIGHTER DAY CHILD CARE CENTER

Beverley McMillian of A Brighter Day Child Care Center has a long history of working with young children. Along the way, she’s built a strong reputation for meeting all children where they are in their journey of learning.

“In May of 1986, I began working with the Early Childhood Intervention Program through the state,” said Beverley. “I did that for 17 years before opening a registered family home. In 2008, I opened a licensed facility. When I was working for the state, I realized that there are many children that do not have access to daycare. This was either because the family couldn’t afford it or the child had special needs. That is when my passion began. I feel that it is a blessing from God that I was given the experience that allows me to work with children with special needs. That gift also flows to other kids to be able to help them develop their fullest potential.”

Each child at A Brighter Day Child Care Center receives individualized instruction plans and care in a secure environment.

“Lesson plans are based on each child,” shared Beverley. “Even if that child has a developmental delay or special needs. I also teach this to my staff and we go to early childhood training to help each child reach their potential and achieve developmental success. I give credit to all our staff that works alongside me and collaborates with me. We help each other in unity with the children and their parents. That is what my goal has always been and will continue to be. My philosophy is to provide a loving, safe and nurturing environment for the children so they can have fun and learn.”

A Brighter Day Child Care Center is located at 638 Bonham Street in Columbus.

Above, A Brighter Day Child Care children work on projects at an early age; bottom, tiny tots enjoy some bubbles. Courtesy photos.

26 | COLUMBUS, TEXAS

Lil’ Einstein Learning Center started with humble beginnings but quickly flourished into the asset to the community that it is today under the direction of owner and founder, Veronica King.

“We started in March of 2018 with one small house and we grew and grew and grew,” shared Veronica. “I was a teacher and I worked in math intervention for over 11 years. Because of my education background, my goal is for our children to leave with a strong educational foundation. Those are the building blocks for success and it sets the tone for their life.”

Veronica’s background in education started early for her at home.

“My mom was an educator,” added Veronica. “I have a bachelors in elementary education and a masters in curriculum and instruction. Education is number one but we also have to make learning fun, not a chore. Plus, not everyone learns the same and we have to reach kids where they are. There’s no such thing as cookie cutter instruction.”

The staff at Lil’ Einstein Learning Center are held to a high standard, going above and beyond the state’s requirements for training. This passion for providing outstanding education and care is what spurred the center’s growth.

“Never in a million years did I think we would grow to this point,” said Veronica. “We’ve accomplished so much with the help of the parents and support of the community. It has been overwhelming. I am truly blessed.”

Lil’ Einstein Learning Center’s main location is at 1217 Walnut Street in Columbus. Their baby center is located at 1022 Jackson Street.

Top, Lil’ Einstein Learning Center at 1217 Walnut Street; children play in a secure environment. Photos by Lori Olivarez-Ligues.

ST. PAUL CHRISTIAN LEARNING ACADEMY

At St. Paul Christian Learning Academy, education and faith go handin-hand. Director Briana Bedford and Assistant Director Chrystal Ross lead a team of talented caregivers that strive to instill Christian love into every child in their care.

“The most important thing is teaching the love of God,” said Briana. “And equally important is our curriculum. Teaching the kids not only on a spiritual level but also on a day-to-day level. Our curriculum specialist, Terersa Fitzgerald, worked as a teacher for over 40 years and we couldn’t be more pleased to have her on board with us now. We’re responsible for forming a solid foundation in our kids and we don’t take that lightly.” St. Paul Christian Learning Academy has been serving the community since 1978 and, although they’ve developed a strong reputation for quality care, it was time for a revamp. “We’re going in a new direction,” said Chrystal. “The parents have seen this amazing change over the past year to the quality of our curriculum.

The kids are not only learning the basics for school, but also art, Spanish, music, dance, and choir.” “Exactly,” added Briana. “It is a customized curriculum for each kid. We’re helping the complete child to succeed.” With a low student to teacher ratio, the staff is better The most important thing is teaching the “ able to focus on each child’s particular needs and adapt. At St. Paul Christian Learning Academy, quality is more important than quantity. love of God. “We’re not so much concerned with numbers as much as we are concerned with the quality of care,” added Chrystal. “Of course, God is first and foremost, but we also strive to create a safe environment for the kids. We want their parents to know that they’re safe and that their child is cared for on an individual level.” St. Paul Christian Learning Academy is located at 201 Veterans Drive in Columbus.

Top left, children learn together at St. Paul Christian Learning Academy; right, field trips are fun at St. Paul Christian Learning Academy. Courtesy photos.