In a town where community support is a core value, Cradles to Crayons in Emerson reflects intentional childcare and education. Laura Litchult, founder and owner, has cultivated a nurturing environment that emphasizes the mind, body, and spirit of each child.
Litchult's journey from a background in infant and child psychology to opening Cradles to Crayons in 2008 is a testament to her dedication to childcare. “After the 2008 market crash, I decided to follow my passion for opening a childcare center. It was the best decision I've ever made,” she says.
As a family business, Litchult's daycare holds a special significance beyond just its educational role. With her own children, such as her son Paul, now actively involved in running the business, the sense of family at the daycare extends well beyond its walls. "Having my children engaged in the business is incredibly fulfilling, and it's even more special knowing that my daughter will soon bring her own child here," Litchult reflects.
Litchult adds, “We are very intentional with what we do with the children.” “We focus on academics and emotional intelligence. Helping children manage their feelings and understand themselves is probably one of our most important features aside from academics.”
Cradles to Crayons operates three locations in Emerson: two centers for infants to two-and-a-half-year-olds and a preschool and pre-K center. Litchult stresses the importance of academic readiness, even for the youngest children. “We have an academic curriculum. We teach color recognition, sight words, and basic math. Most of the kids here leave reading at a kindergarten or first-grade level.”
Litchult's passion for early childhood education is evident in her commitment to a 52-week program, which includes modified academics during the summer months. “I truly believe in doing academics all throughout the school year,” she says. “In the summertime, we do more summer camps, but we still maintain an academic focus.”
A significant aspect of Cradles to Crayons is the strong sense of family and community it fosters. “During COVID, we created such a family that many families still come back to us, even after moving on to public school,” Litchult notes. “It's great to see children return for our summer camps and reconnect with their friends.”
Litchult's approach to technology in the classroom is cautious. “We have no screen time other than educational videos. I believe children learn best through socialization, play, and imagination,” she explained. This philosophy extends to incorporating yoga and meditation into the daily routine to help children manage anxiety and prepare for transitions.
The center's reputation in Bergen County is stellar, with Litchult mentioning a long waitlist and numerous testimonials from satisfied parents. “We've built strong relationships with families, and we have a good reputation on Bergen County Moms,” she says. “We currently care for close to 250 children a day with a staff of 48 people.”
Cradles to Crayons is also deeply embedded in the Emerson community. “We sponsor local teams, participate in scholarship programs, and are involved in events like the Emerson Chamber of Commerce car show,” Litchult says. “I feel really compelled to serve Emerson and want to focus on this community.”
For Litchult, community means “Someone always has your back.” Cradles to Crayons embodies this spirit, ensuring that every child and family feels supported, both in good times and challenging ones.
For more information please visit https://www.c2childcare.com
“We focus on academics and emotional intelligence. Helping children manage their feelings and understand themselves is probably one of our most important features aside from academics.” - Laura Litchult