Today we’d like to introduce you to Shanell Monique.
Hi Shanell, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
The idea for my childcare business came from my passion for helping children and families. After working with children for many years, I recognized the need for quality, affordable childcare in a safe and nurturing environment. I often thought about opening my own large home childcare program, but like many aspiring entrepreneurs, fear and uncertainty kept me in the idea phase. The moment that helped me move beyond the idea phase and actually launch my business came when I contracted COVID-19 and was hospitalized. During that difficult time, I reflected on my life, goals, and purpose. I realized that tomorrow is never promised, and I made a commitment to myself that if I recovered, I would stop allowing fear to hold me back. That experience became the catalyst for my new journey.
Once I made that decision, I began researching state licensing requirements, completing training, preparing my home, purchasing equipment, and developing policies and procedures. There were challenges along the way, including finances, inspections, paperwork, and building enrollment, but I remained focused on my vision.
When Monique’s Little Friends Child Care officially opened, it represented more than a business—it represented courage, faith, and perseverance. What started as an idea became a reality because I chose to take action. My journey taught me that success doesn’t begin when conditions are perfect; it begins when you decide to move forward despite your fears.
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?
My journey has not been a smooth road. One of the biggest challenges has been balancing school, work, and family responsibilities while running my own childcare business. There were times when financial stress, personal hardships, and unexpected life events made it difficult to stay focused. Despite these obstacles, I remained determined, relied on my faith, sought support when needed, and continued working toward my goals. Each challenge has strengthened my resilience, improved my time management skills, and reminded me why earning my degree is so important to my future and the families I serve.
Great, so let’s talk business. Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
Monique’s Little Friends Child Care is a family child care program dedicated to providing a safe, nurturing, and engaging environment where children can learn, grow, and thrive. We serve children ages 1 to 4… focusing on early childhood education, social-emotional development, and school readiness through hands-on learning and individualized care.
What sets us apart is our commitment to treating every child like family. We maintain small group sizes to ensure each child receives personalized attention while building confidence, independence, and a love for learning. As a 5-star, NAFCC-accredited program, we pride ourselves on maintaining high standards of quality, cleanliness, and professionalism.
As the owner, I bring years of experience in education and child development, along with a passion for helping children reach their full potential. My goal is not only to care for children but also to build lasting relationships with families by providing dependable, high-quality care in a loving and supportive environment. I want readers to know that Monique’s Little Friends is more than a daycare—it is a place where every child is valued, encouraged, and given the opportunity to succeed.
Can you share something surprising about yourself?
One thing that surprises many people is that my business was built from a deeply personal purpose. Before opening Monique’s Little Friends Child Care, I spent over 10 years working in the public school system while earning multiple degrees and credentials in child development. Many people also don’t realize that I am an author, nonprofit founder, and full-time college student. Every experience I’ve had has strengthened my passion for serving children and families. My greatest joy isn’t just caring for children—it’s creating opportunities for them to thrive while showing other women that it’s never too late to pursue your dreams, continue your education, and build a meaningful legacy.
Pricing:
- Trust: Dedicated to the Hearts Looking for a Place to Call Home — $28.99
- Personal Business Planner — $28.99
- Love & Confidence Journal: A Woman’s Guide to Letting Go of the Past – Love Lost, Love Found — $29.50
- The Wife Between Us: A Tale of Love and Deceit (Episodes One & Two) — $35.00
- Reclaiming Self from Past Shadows: Daddy Issues – Love Lessons in Healing From Toxic Relationships — $21.50
Contact Info:
- Website: https://Shanellmonique.net
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/swmonique
- Youtube: https://youtube.com/@smoniquejustsaying?si=6-MRTAFx1iGlRZmX
