Setting a New Standard for Child Care in Montana
Setting a New Standard for Child Care in Montana
With a background in healthcare, Larch Early Childhood Care Owner & Director Christine Miller-Fitzpatrick understood the burnout that came with the industry and was passionate about finding a “better way.” That’s why when it came to starting her own business, there was one area that she set out to build the rest around: employee culture.
Driven by the desire to meet the demand for child care in her community, Christine opened Larch Early Childhood Care – a multi-location child care facility that provides a happy and enriching environment for the entire Larch family, including staff.
THE CHALLENGE
Building a thriving child care business.
As child care facilities continued to face closure around Helena, many new parents, like Christine, were left without accessible care for their children. Looking for guidance, Christine reached out to Montana Child Care Business Connect, a program of Zero to Five Montana, where she soon found herself on the journey of becoming a child care provider. For Christine, opening Larch was essential – there was no other path. And yet, even after overcoming the hurdles of breaking into the industry, there was still one small-business challenge left to tackle: consistent and reliable staffing.
While Larch initially opened as a single-location facility, both opportunity (and demand) allowed for a quick and wise expansion into a second building – a move that further highlighted the need for a reliable care team.
of all Montana employees are small–business employees.
is the the median hourly wage for a child care worker in Montana.
Watch to Learn More About this Success Story
THE SOLUTION
Prioritizing employee culture.
From the very beginning, Christine knew she wanted to do things differently. She didn’t want to just start a child care business, she wanted to create an entire support system – a village that was an extension of a child’s family. And to do so, one important detail needed to be at the foundation of her entire business plan: employee culture.
Working alongside MCCBC for both the initial launch and expansion, Christine created a business model that didn’t just include a positive work culture but prioritized it – allowing for higher employee salaries, a work schedule that encouraged a “self-care break,” building locations centered around downtown, and even the use of a communication app between provider and parents. Though met with concern from other community providers, these intentional changes have created an environment at Larch that is quickly setting a new standard for child care across Montana. One where balance is encouraged, teachers are refreshed, parents are invited in, and happiness is more than just a goal – it’s an overflow.
The work culture at Larch is our foundation. It’s crucial that children have a consistent connection with their teachers. That’s why we’re committed to paying about 30% higher than the average in Helena.
Christine Miller-Fitzpatrick, Owner & Director, Larch Early Childhood Care
STEPS TO SUCCESS
Seeking outside support
With no previous experience in the child care industry, Christine participated in MCCBC’s Mentorship-Accelerator program. This enabled her to quickly build her knowledge, skills, and connections in child care management.
Establishing a comprehensive service model
Larch Early Childhood Care established a robust business model that centered around their unique goals and community. This acted as both a measuring stick and driving force behind each of their locations and relevant decisions.
Leveraging resources
From building leases and risk management to budgeting and planning software, Larch jumped at every chance to utilize MCCBC resources and connections – increasing their overall success and leading to quicker expansion opportunities.
Prioritizing employee well-being
Recognizing the important role that teachers play, the Larch team established a goal early on to prioritize work culture in their planning – allowing their team to pay higher salaries and offer added benefits.
PROGRESS
Making the best decision isn’t always the easiest one. But with the right support and guidance, success is never far away.
Take a look!
Care for 30 Families
Lower Turnover Rates
KEY TAKEAWAYS
Christine is one of the best bosses I’ve ever had. She understands that having happy teachers also relates to having happy kids. And she really makes that a priority – it’s been amazing to be a part of.
Mickenzi Purdom, Lead Teacher of Preschool Classroom
