Five Years of Growth: Young Boy Thrives in Early Childhood Education at Unleashing Potential

In 2018, Vanessa* welcomed the birth of her only child, Henry*. When it was time to return to work, Vanessa dreamed of finding an early childhood education (ECE) center that provided an environment where Henry was well cared for, that focused on quality education, and where Henry would be prepared for kindergarten.

She researched and found Caroline Mission, the ECE center at Unleashing Potential (UP) in St. Louis. She liked that UP was recommended, accredited, high-quality, affordable, close to work, and that during lunch breaks, she could spend quality time with Henry and be on-site to feed him. Vanessa remembers that the ECE Director sat down and talked with her about any question she had. The director showed Vanessa the center and explaining what would happen in his daily schedule. Vanessa felt reassured that Henry was in good hands.

Fast forward to 2024. Henry has been going to UP for five years. When Henry comes home, he is telling her things, walking, running, curious about everything, and wants to learn. Vanessa loves these positive developmental milestone achievements.

These milestones were developed thanks to the wonderful resources that UP provides for each student. “At the end of the end of every month, UP provides toiletries, diapers, pull ups, formula, books—a lot of books!” said Vanessa. “Special thanks to Books for STL Kids. It was never expected but always appreciated!” 

Henry’s favorite books are the ones about dinosaurs, dragons, and dogs. He loves adventure books and is particularly fond of books that rhyme. All these resources have benefited Vanessa’s family and helped them focus on Henry’s development and education.

Because of these resources, Henry also has gained a strong understanding of and developed skills in leadership, decision making, and independence. Vanessa is appreciative that Henry benefits from being around other children, especially since he is an only child. “UP was also able to get him to try a bunch of different foods.,” she said. “Other kids were trying it, so he would, too. That was a big help to me.”

The educators at UP tell her Henry is always the class helper, comforting other kids when they are hurt. UP has really helped with his social-emotional skills. Henry’s “reasoning and emotional reasoning changed from ‘what I want’ to ‘this would help everyone,’” Vanessa said. “He has learned all his numbers, shapes, colors, and can write his name.” 

Thanks to UP’s Early Childhood Education program, Henry has become a well-rounded and super smart 5-year-old.

*Actual names have been changed to protect child’s identity.