
Opening a Childcare Center in 2026?
If you’re considering expanding or opening a new childcare center in California, there’s one thing you must be aware of: the application process has changed, and it’s more complex than ever.
Daycare Unplugged — Real Conversations. Real Data. Real Leadership.
Beyond the Crayons is a leadership platform for child care directors and owners.
Since 2005, Ms. Monique and Mr. Fred have worked inside the industry — building programs, navigating policy shifts, managing staff, and leading through change.
Here, we go beyond surface-level discussions.
We break down policy, explore operational realities, share director insight, and elevate the collective voice of child care professionals.
If you lead a center or own a childcare, this space is built for you.
Together, we strengthen our industry.
Daycare Unplugged — Real Conversations. Real Data. Real Leadership.
Beyond the Crayons is a leadership platform for child care directors and owners.
Since 2005, Ms. Monique and Mr. Fred have worked inside the industry — building programs, navigating policy shifts, managing staff, and leading through change.
Here, we go beyond surface-level discussions.
We break down policy, explore operational realities, share director insight, and elevate the collective voice of child care professionals.
If you lead a center or own a childcare, this space is built for you.
Together, we strengthen our industry.
We ask important questions about the childcare industry, and your answers make a real difference. Together, we present this valuable insight to senators and decision-makers to advocate for increased funding, better resources, fair pay, and the respect our industry deserves. Childcare has been the backbone of the economy for decades, and it’s time we receive the support needed to evolve and thrive.
By answering our weekly questions, you’re playing a vital role in helping us gather the data needed to demonstrate how essential childcare is to the economy—both now and in the future.
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If you’re considering expanding or opening a new childcare center in California, there’s one thing you must be aware of: the application process has changed, and it’s more complex than ever.

Bill AB 176 eases the path for childcare centers to either expand their current operations or open a new facility by bypassing the very strict 2023 fire safety and building codes.

If you’re considering expanding or opening a new childcare center in California, there’s one thing you must be aware of: the application process has changed, and it’s more complex than ever.
NEVER MISS AN UPDATE
We invite you—passionate early childhood professionals—to join us as special guests, sharing your unique insights and stories.
Together, let’s dive deeper than the surface, exploring the heart and soul of daycare and uplifting every provider along the way.

If you’re considering expanding or opening a new childcare center in California, there’s one thing you must be aware of: the application process has changed, and it’s more complex than ever.

Bill AB 176 eases the path for childcare centers to either expand their current operations or open a new facility by bypassing the very strict 2023 fire safety and building codes.

Steady enrollment in a tight economy doesn’t come from price cuts or louder marketing. It comes from trust, retention, and clarity. Here’s how to build it.

Posting on the same job board and waiting isn’t a strategy anymore. Here’s what’s actually working for childcare hiring right now.

Good parent communication isn’t more communication. It’s the right communication, at the right time, through the right channel. Here’s how to design it.

Subsidy paperwork doesn’t have to ruin your evenings. Here’s a system that actually works for keeping CCRC submissions clean and on time.
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