When I started Smarter Toddler in the bottom floor of my duplex apartment several years ago, little did I know that I had tapped into a hot spring of parental discontent with many of the childcare offerings that were available at the time. Whoever said “necessity is the mother of all inventions” must have been a parent. I was desperately looking for daycare for my 1 year old and after being put on a dozen waitlists with no hope of getting in and not finding a suitable nanny, the light bulb went on.

I wish I could say that I had a clear vision, from the very beginning of what I wanted to accomplish for the school but I didn’t. What I did know for sure was what I didn’t want - namely a clinical, cold daycare setting and institutionalized learning. I didn’t want just a daycare. I wanted a community that was an extension of the children’s homes and for some a home away from home. I wanted open spaces, colorful walls and wooden floors. I wanted live plants, warm lighting and music filled rooms. I wanted beautiful but functional surroundings where children are listened to and respected. I wanted the Arts to play a big role at our school because art is the expression that most young children use. Music of all types including world, jazz, classical, even rock would be played throughout the day.

So I had a vision after all. My vision was to create a child care program that brings back the basic, loving home environment to institutional daycare. Much more than “hands-on learning”, I wanted a community effort that involves teachers/caregivers, parents, children and administration alike. Judging by the amazing group of families past and present who have joined our community and fully embraced our philosophy, I would say we’re on the right track.

Our mission is to continue to create an enhanced quality child care program through cultural experiences and the arts. Initiatives such as our arts partnership with Music Together, Harlem School of the Arts and Creative Keys Yoga define our vision and will help us achieve our mission.