3 Minutes on a Park Bench with Melissa Ananias from Learning Zone Childcare at the Cummings Center in Beverly

Melissa Ananias talks about the various programs The Learning Zone offers and reflects on the advice her college English teacher gave her.

Patch: What is The Learning Zone best known for?

Melissa: The Learning Zone is best known for our sincere love of the children! Our customer service is foremost. We feel it is extremely important to be flexible and meet the needs of all families whenever possible!

Patch: Can you tell us a little bit about the different programs the Preschool offers?

Melissa: Our childcare center offers Infant care, Toddler Care and Preschool Care. Families can do 1-5 days a week or even occasional care! We care for 1-month-olds to 6-year-olds!

Patch: How did you get into education or child care?

Melissa: I went to Boston University for education and opened my first center almost 22 years ago after graduation.

Patch: What are your favorite events at the centers?

Melissa: My favorite events at the centers are our holiday parties! It is so wonderful to see all the parents and families celebrating together!

Patch: What was the best advice a teacher ever gave to you and do you remember the grade/subject he or she taught?

Melissa: My college English teacher said to teach children to love books at an early age...and they will forever have a love of learning! The Learning Zone strives to achieve this!

Patch: What advice would you give others in your position?

Melissa: The best advice for a childcare center owner is always be appreciative to your staff. Without them, you have nothing!

Patch: What’s the Learning Zone’s teaching philosophy?

Melissa: The Learning Zone’s teaching philosophy is to let children feel loved and safe and they will learn!

Patch: What makes The Learning Zone standout?

Melissa: The Learning Zone Childcare Center has loving, happy and smart staff, online cameras and flexible schedules!