How can a mountain-raised adventurer transform her love for the great outdoors into a thriving oasis of early childhood education?

Tiffany Anna Madrid, founder of Strong Foundations Learning Center, takes us on a journey from scaling peaks to scaling the challenges of modern childcare. With the spirit of a trailblazer and the heart of a nurturer, Tiffany shares how she's created a play-based preschool paradise in Thousand Palms, California, where muddy knees are badges of honor and curiosity is the curriculum.

Tiffany traces her path from opening in July 2012 with 17 children to cultivating a garden of 125 young minds within six months. She discusses how her mountain upbringing influenced her passion for outdoor play and risk-taking in early childhood education.

The conversation explores Tiffany's play-based approach, emphasizing the importance of muddy knees, tree-climbing, and self-directed learning. She shares how this philosophy creates a nurturing environment for all children, including those with special needs.

Tiffany candidly discusses the challenges of staffing in the current environment, likening it to scaling a steep cliff with limited equipment. She emphasizes the need for more funding to support teacher salaries and maintain quality care.

As an industry veteran, Tiffany offers insights on navigating the complex terrain of state subsidies, adapting to changes like transitional kindergarten, and maintaining financial stability in a shifting landscape.

The discussion addresses the impact of COVID-19 on the childcare industry, with Tiffany sharing how Strong Foundations weathered the storm using a combination of savings, government support, and adaptability.

Tiffany shares her vision for the future of childcare, including potential shifts in age groups served and ongoing staffing challenges, painting a picture of an evolving industry landscape.

Mentors that inspired Tiffany:

Bev Boss, described by Tiffany as "the queen of all preschool teachers," inspired her play-based philosophy
Janet Lansbury, whose website and podcast provide valuable resources for parents and educators
Her upbringing in the San Bernardino Mountains instilled a love for outdoor play and risk-taking
The children themselves, who continually inspire and teach Tiffany through their curiosity and resilience
Her faith, which provides guidance and peace in navigating the challenges of running a childcare business

Don't miss this engaging discussion with a childcare provider who's built a successful program while staying true to her roots and fostering a love for nature-based, play-centered learning.

References:

Website - https://www.strongfoundationslearningcenter.org/

Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/tiffany-madrid-266631123

Contact Tiffany for more information- 760-343-2163

Anthony Codispoti, AddBack Benefits Agency

https://www.addbackbenefitsagency.com/

Transcript | The Outdoor Classroom: Tiffany Madrid's Nature-Based Approach to Childcare

Youtube - Inspired Stories Podcast by AddBack BenefitsAgency

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-2KCy3zqjALje6hwzWT0VA

The Outdoor Classroom: Tiffany Madrid's Nature-Based Approach to Childcare

The Inspired Stories Podcast