Meet Shryel Washington | Founder & Early Childhood Educator at Mrs. Washington’s In-Home Preschool and Childcare

We had the good fortune of connecting with Shryel Washington and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Shryel, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
Starting Mrs. Washington’s Childcare came from a deep love for children and a passion for creating the kind of environment where little ones feel safe, seen, loved, and excited to learn every day. I’ve always believed that early childhood is such a special and important stage, and I wanted to create more than just a daycare. I wanted to create a warm, nurturing space that truly feels like a second home for families.

As a mom myself, I understand how important it is to leave your child somewhere you fully trust. That thought stayed with me throughout the entire process of building my business. I wanted families to feel comforted knowing their children are not only cared for, but genuinely loved, encouraged, and celebrated for exactly who they are.

My vision was to blend learning, social-emotional growth, creativity, outdoor exploration, and meaningful connections into everyday experiences for the Littles in my care. Watching children grow in confidence, build friendships, discover new things, and feel proud of themselves is truly the most rewarding part of what I do.

Starting this business was never just about opening a childcare program. It was about building a community, creating lasting memories, and making a positive impact on children and families during some of the most important years of their lives.

What should our readers know about your business?
Mrs. Washington’s Childcare was built from a genuine passion for nurturing children and creating a loving, safe, and enriching environment where families feel supported and children can truly thrive. What sets my program apart is that it is so much more than just childcare. It is a warm, family-centered environment focused on social-emotional growth, hands-on learning, outdoor exploration, creativity, and helping children build confidence from an early age.

One thing I’m most proud of is the sense of connection and community we’ve created. I want every child who walks through my doors to feel loved, important, and excited to learn. We focus heavily on emotional development and teaching children how to express themselves, build friendships, respect others, and feel confident in who they are. I truly believe children learn best when they feel safe, supported, and genuinely cared for.

I’m also very proud of creating an outdoor classroom experience where children can explore, learn through play, and connect with nature. Watching the Littles learn through hands-on activities, movement, sensory play, and outdoor discovery brings so much joy to my heart. Childhood should feel magical, and I work hard every day to create those meaningful experiences for them.

Getting to where I am today definitely was not easy. Like many small business owners, I’ve faced challenges balancing entrepreneurship, motherhood, long hours, self-doubt, and the everyday responsibilities that come with running a business. There were moments where things felt overwhelming, but my love for what I do and the families I serve always pushed me forward. I’ve learned that consistency, passion, adaptability, and building genuine relationships with families are everything in this field.

One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned along the way is that authenticity matters. Families can feel when your heart is truly in your work. I’ve also learned that success doesn’t happen overnight. It’s built through patience, trust, hard work, and showing up every single day with love and purpose.

I want the world to know that Mrs. Washington’s Childcare was built with heart. Behind the lesson plans, activities, and daily routines is someone who truly loves children and cares deeply about making a positive impact during some of the most important years of their lives. My goal has always been to create a space where children feel at home, families feel supported, and learning feels joyful and meaningful.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
If my best friend came to visit for a week, I’d want them to experience the Los Angeles that I love, not just the tourist spots, but the places that make this city feel like home.

We’d start our mornings with coffee and a walk through Playa Vista Farmers Market or breakfast near Runway Playa Vista. As a mom and preschool owner, I love places that bring families together, and Playa Vista has such a great community feel.

For beach days, we’d spend time at Manhattan Beach Pier and stroll through downtown Manhattan Beach. We’d grab lunch at The Strand House and watch the sunset over the ocean.

No visit to Los Angeles would be complete without exploring Santa Monica Pier and walking along the beach to Venice Beach Boardwalk. It’s the perfect mix of classic California energy, people-watching, and ocean views.

For shopping and dinner, I’d take them to Westfield Century City. It’s one of my favorite places to spend an afternoon, and there are so many great restaurants and outdoor spaces to enjoy.

Since I love being outdoors, we’d rent bikes and ride along the beach path from Marina del Rey to Hermosa Beach. It’s one of the best ways to experience the South Bay.

For a little adventure, we’d hike at Kenneth Hahn State Recreation Area. The views of the city are incredible, and it’s one of my favorite hidden gems.

Of course, we’d spend an afternoon at Disneyland Park because my son Max and I love Disney, and it’s always a fun day no matter your age.

To finish the trip, we’d enjoy dinner overlooking the water at Tony P’s Dockside Grill or cocktails and ocean views near Manhattan Beach while watching another beautiful Southern California sunset.

What I love most about Los Angeles is that every day can feel different. You can hike in the morning, bike by the beach in the afternoon, enjoy amazing food at night, and still discover something new. It’s a city full of sunshine, diversity, creativity, and endless opportunities to explore.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I would absolutely dedicate my shoutout to my parents, my grandmother, and my husband. I truly would not be where I am today without their love, encouragement, and support.

My parents have always believed in me and continue to support me even at this big adult age, which is something I never take for granted. Having people in your corner who genuinely believe you can accomplish your goals gives you the confidence to keep pushing forward, especially during challenging moments of entrepreneurship and motherhood.

My grandmother deserves so much recognition because she was actually the inspiration behind everything. She owned her own childcare business, and I grew up surrounded by the love, care, structure, and community she created for children and families. Watching her nurture children with so much patience and heart planted the seed for what would later become Mrs. Washington’s Childcare. So much of what I do today was learned from simply watching her lead with love.

And of course, my husband deserves a huge shoutout for always supporting every dream and idea I have. Running a business, being a mom, and balancing life can be overwhelming at times, but he continuously encourages me, supports my vision, and reminds me to keep going even when things get hard. Having that kind of support means everything to me.

It truly takes a village, and I’m so thankful for mine.

Website: https://www.mrswashingtonschildcare.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mrswashingtonschildcare/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MrsWashingtonsChildcare/

Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/mrs-washingtons-child-care-los-angeles?osq=Mrs.+Washington%E2%80%99s+Child+Care