Finding quality child care isn't always easy. In fact, Long Beach is considered a child care desert, meaning there simply aren't enough licensed child care providers to meet the needs of local families.

In this episode of The Catalyst, Stuart sits down with Crystal Stringer, founder and owner of Heaven's Angels Academy, to discuss her journey from operating a successful family child care program in Carson to opening a brand-new early learning center in Long Beach.

Crystal shares the challenges of opening a licensed child care facility, why she chose the Wrigley neighborhood, how the pandemic changed child care, and why creating a welcoming environment for children is about much more than colorful walls and toys.

If you're a parent, entrepreneur, or simply interested in how businesses grow while serving their communities, this conversation offers an inside look at what it takes to build something that truly makes a difference.

In This Episode

00:00 Welcome to The Catalyst

00:44 What is Heaven's Angels Academy?

01:33 From an in-home daycare in Carson to a second location in Long Beach

02:00 Why Crystal chose Long Beach and what it means to be a "child care desert"

02:52 Why the Wrigley neighborhood became the perfect location

03:57 The reality of opening a child care center: permits, licensing, and a three-and-a-half-year journey

06:15 How COVID permanently changed child care and today's flexible scheduling needs

08:22 Supporting parents with non-traditional work schedules

09:28 The inspiration behind designing a warm, welcoming learning environment

11:57 Why early childhood education is about much more than babysitting

14:32 Outdoor learning, movement, and helping children develop through play

16:00 Building community while investing in Long Beach's future

17:33 What families can expect from Heaven's Angels Academy

18:35 Final thoughts and how to schedule a tour

Key Takeaways

• Long Beach has a significant shortage of licensed child care providers.
• Opening a child care center requires years of planning, permitting, licensing, and construction.
• Child care has evolved to meet today's flexible and hybrid work schedules.
• A thoughtfully designed learning environment can shape how children learn, explore, and grow.
• Play-based learning builds social, emotional, and academic skills long before kindergarten.
• Community partnerships are essential when launching a new business.

Learn More

To learn more about Heaven's Angels Academy, schedule a tour, or explore enrollment opportunities, visit their website or contact the academy directly.

https://www.heavensangelsacademy.com/

The Catalyst is produced by the Long Beach Area Chamber of Commerce, highlighting the businesses, leaders, and organizations making a difference throughout the Long Beach community