HOW WE STARTED
At Sunshine Playschool, we believe that every child deserves a bright beginning. The journey began over 30 years ago in the warmth of our owner’s own home, where she opened the doors to her first daycare. With a passion for nurturing young minds and a commitment to providing a safe, loving environment, our owner began this rewarding adventure in childcare.
In 1999, as the family and community grew, so did the vision. Sunshine Playschool took a significant step forward by purchasing a dedicated building in Riverdale, Georiga, allowing for the expansion of programs and the creation of a space specifically designed for children’s exploration and growth. This transition marked a new chapter in the story, enabling the center to serve even more families while maintaining the intimate, personalized care that has always been its hallmark.
Over the years, we have had the pleasure of caring for countless children, many of whom have returned as parents, bringing their own little ones to us. Additionally, some of our current staff members were once students at Sunshine Playschool themselves, a testament to the lasting bonds we create here. This unique connection enriches our community, allowing us to foster a sense of familiarity and trust among families.
OUR MISSION
At Sunshine Playschool, we are dedicated to nurturing the unique potential of each child, understanding that the early experiences we provide serve as the foundation for a lifetime of growth and learning. Guided by the principle ‘As the twig is bent, so grows the tree,’ we create a warm, inclusive, and stimulating environment where curiosity flourishes, resilience is built, and relationships are fostered. Our mission is to empower children to explore, discover, and develop their individual strengths, instilling a love of learning that will last a lifetime. Together with families, we aim to shape confident, compassionate, and capable individuals ready to thrive in a diverse world.
OUR PHILOSOPHY
“As the twig is bent, so grows the tree.” This philosophy guides our approach to nurturing each child’s development and learning.
Meet Our Owner, Brandy Ellison, who has dedicated over 30 years to the early childhood education industry, beginning her journey in home daycare for six years before opening her center in 1999. Ms. Brandy’s own early education experience at K. Anthony Schools of Excellence in Inglewood, California, inspired her to create a nurturing environment where children can thrive. The motto “As the twig is bent” was a guiding principle in her own education, and it continues to shape the values we uphold at our center. In the early years of a child’s life, we have the unique opportunity to shape their experiences, instill values, and inspire curiosity. Just as a tree flourishes with strong branches when its twigs are gently guided, we aim to provide a supportive and enriching environment where your children can thrive.
At Sunshine Playschool, we focus on:
-Fostering Curiosity: Encouraging exploration and inquiry, allowing children to discover the world around them.
- Building Resilience: Creating a safe space where children can learn, developing confidence and strength.
- Nurturing Relationships: Promoting social skills and friendships that will support their emotional growth and well-being.
We are also proud to offer the Iva Russell Open Arms Scholarship, which provides a full scholarship to one deserving student each year. This initiative reflects our commitment to making quality early education accessible to all families in our community. We believe that every child deserves the opportunity to thrive, and this scholarship is one way we can give back and support families in need.
We understand that every child is unique, and our dedicated team is committed to recognizing and nurturing their individual strengths and interests. Through play-based and structured learning, creative activities, and guided exploration, we help shape the twigs of their early experiences, ensuring they grow into strong, healthy individuals.
As we celebrate over three decades of service, we remain committed to our mission: to provide a joyful, enriching, and safe environment for all children. Thank you for considering Sunshine Playschool as your partner in your child's early education. We can’t wait to welcome you into our family!
Warm regards,
Brandy Ellison
Founder, Sunshine Playschool

Brandy Ellison - Founder
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