Today we’d like to introduce you to Shanice Swan
Hi Shanice, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
I’ve always had a passion for working with children. It took me a few years to determine the right career path. Initially, I pursued pre-medicine with the goal of becoming an invasive pediatric cardiologist. However, being highly empathetic, I found the idea of potentially witnessing a child’s death unbearable. This realization led me to earn both a bachelor’s and a master’s degree in Child and Family Development, seeking a deeper understanding of how to care for our most vulnerable population. After completing my master’s degree, I decided to open my own daycare, with the aim of establishing a children’s center after three years of operation. My goal is to create a program that feels like an extended family, offering high-quality services tailored to each child’s individual needs.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
The journey has been challenging, but I believe my struggles have led me to where I need to be. I had both of my children while attending school, balancing the demands of motherhood with the search for a fulfilling career. At times, I lose myself in each role and neglect taking care of Shanice. The work hours are long, and I’m never truly “off the clock,” but every time I see a child learn something new, I feel a renewed sense of purpose. I’m gradually improving at balancing my responsibilities and knowing when to step back.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about IBIS Children’s Center LLC?
I envision IBIS Children’s Center as a model program that fosters personal development. At IBIS, we are dedicated to creating a nurturing and stimulating environment for children, rooted in the principles of emergent curriculum and STEAM. Our mission is to provide high-quality service that is innovative, balanced, and inclusive (IBIS). We believe every child deserves a safe and nurturing environment to grow and learn.
Our program is designed to stimulate social, emotional, cognitive, and physical growth in all children. I believe that children thrive within a resilient community formed by the synergy between families and educators. I aspire for IBIS to become an extension of each family we serve, offering more than just childcare.
I specialize in infant and toddler care, combining practical experience with theoretical research. I also focus on parenting practices and received a research award for my thesis at SDSU. Once I open my center, I aim to make quality childcare affordable for all socio-economic backgrounds through a scholarship program for families in need. I am most proud of seeing my vision come to life and the positive impact it has already had on families.
Risk taking is a topic that people have widely differing views on – we’d love to hear your thoughts.
Last year, my husband and I ventured into the trucking industry without any prior experience. We took a significant risk by purchasing a second truck before thoroughly researching the market. This decision backfired as, despite generating profits, the second truck demanded excessive maintenance. Our situation worsened when our first truck was stolen, and the second truck, brand new, required engine repairs, all within two weeks. With no vehicles on the road, we had no income, forcing us to cover all expenses from our personal funds. After weeks of struggling to sustain the business, we decided to close it.
Although this was a major risk, we learned invaluable lessons about the necessary steps for running a business. We applied these lessons to our daycare venture, understanding that some lessons only come through experience. I believe every experience offers a valuable lesson if you’re willing to take the risk.
Pricing:
- Infant/Toddler – $350/week
- Preschool – $325/week
Contact Info:
- Website: https://ibiscare.wixsite.com/ibiscc
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ibis_childrens_center/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61553820736188
