Mental's Daycare

Keeps growing.
A mom and two kids stopped by this afternoon. They'll be signing up for two afternoons a week. I will have another child starting this coming week, too. Just got another new enrollment for a couple mornings, too.

The thing is, I have so little control over it. The health of my program is a direct indicator of the health of the economy. People don't make a day care program their number one priority unless they have a job. Then, hopefully they at least try to find a good day care.

That's what I'm trying to provide. I've said before that I'm not a huge day care fan, I think children should be with their parents if it's possible, but due to needing to feed, clothe, and shelter children, a lot of parents are at work. I'm glad there's a need for people like me.

I haven't changed the way I do things. For the last five years (this is the beginning of my 6th year at this school) I have done everything I can do to get things growing. I love making it a fun place to be.

I overheard three boys talking last week about the things we do and how much they like being there.

"This place is the BEST!" one said. The other two enthusiastically agreed.
These are the three boys who dive headfirst into the Lego bin and don't come up for air the rest of the afternoon. They have a good time there.

There are lots of things besides Legos, of course. Now that things are finally starting to smooth out in the afternoons, routines established, a place for everything, relationships are forming between the kids... it's time to start bringing out some serious crafty things, too.

During the month of December, it's a tradition to make an ornament or decoration every day at our program. We have some kids who will join in with great happiness, and others who'd prefer to to play with Legos and ignore the whole scissors and glue and creativity.

I think it's time to start going through my supplies and procuring the bits and pieces I don't have.

I seriously could open my own center at this point. I wouldn't have to buy anything but snacks. :)

Anyway, the program is growing, which makes me really happy.
And keeps me awfully busy.