[ HAWAII AT WORK ]
Rowena Quevedo, center, and her PATCH recruiter, Louisa Butler, right, share some floor space with the clients of Quevedo's home child-care service.
Providing a nurturing
environment for kids
proves demanding
and funAbout a year ago, after being in the jewelry business for more than 15 years, I decided to make a career change that would allow me to spend more time with my two young children. I chose a child-care business because I enjoy kids and I hoped that I could make a positive difference in their lives while continuing to provide income for our family.
Being a child-care provider has been far more rewarding than I imagined. Providing the children with a nurturing environment where they are able to learn, grow and be happy is exhilarating -- it's more than just baby-sitting. At the same time, I learned that running a child-care business meant that I was the president, treasurer, secretary, chef and janitor of my new small business, and there was so much to learn quickly.
Rowena Quevedo
Job: Child-care providerComing up: Friday is national provider appreciation day.
I am pleased to say that my child-care business is alive and thriving thanks to the support I received from PATCH. PATCH helped me get my state license. That included filling out application forms, obtaining physicals and clearances, and preparing my home for inspection. But the support didn't stop there. PATCH also provided classes and information on child development, nutrition and health and safety issues. The trainers at PATCH have taught me about how to serve healthy meals, and even provide free tax seminars. And, as a licensed provider, I am eligible to receive referrals. Four out of the five children in my care are PATCH referrals.
Today, a section of my home is dedicated to my child-care business. Each day, as the children arrive, they find toys and educational activities awaiting them in basket shelves in a room with painted murals and custom drapes. But great child care goes beyond providing a comfortable place to spend the day. Parents are counting on us to help develop their young children.
I encourage others to consider becoming child-care providers. It is, by far, one of the most rewarding careers.
"Hawaii at Work" features tell what people do for a living in their own words. Send submissions to business@starbulletin.com
