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Growing Sprouts Childcare Center LLC

Our story

A learning home rooted in warmth.

Growing Sprouts began with a simple wish: to build the kind of childcare we would want for our own children — cozy, curious, and full of laughter.

Our mission

To nurture the whole child — heart, mind, and imagination — through play-based learning, honest relationships, and joyful daily rituals that help every sprout thrive.

Our philosophy

Children learn best when they feel safe, seen, and free to explore. We follow their lead, plan intentional invitations to play, and trust the beautiful work of childhood.

Our leadership

Meet the hearts behind Growing Sprouts.

Alexus Smith, Administrator/Owner and Registered Nurse, and Nijah Brown, Owner and Center Director, share a deep commitment to nurturing children in a safe, loving, and play-filled environment.

Alexus, founder of Growing Sprouts Childcare
Alexus Smith, Administrator/Owner.
Alexus with her two children
Alexus with her children.
Administrator/Owner · Founder & Registered Nurse

Alexus Smith

  • Registered Nurse
  • Administrator/Owner
  • Former Nanny
  • Parent & Caregiver

Caring for others has always been at the heart of my career. Before becoming a nurse, I worked as a nanny while completing my undergraduate degree, where I developed a passion for supporting children's growth and creating safe, engaging environments.

Throughout my healthcare career, I have also worked with adults with developmental disabilities and high behavioral needs, providing compassionate, individualized care while helping them live as independently and safely as possible.

These experiences have strengthened my patience, communication, problem-solving, and commitment to providing exceptional care — qualities I bring into Growing Sprouts every day.

As both a nurse and a parent, I understand the trust families place in those caring for their children. My vision for Growing Sprouts is to create a nurturing environment where children feel safe, valued, and excited to learn. We believe every child deserves opportunities to explore, build confidence, develop meaningful relationships, and grow at their own pace through hands-on learning and play.

At Growing Sprouts, our commitment is to provide high-quality care, maintain open communication with families, and support each child's development in a warm, welcoming environment. We look forward to becoming a trusted partner in your family's journey and helping your child build a strong foundation for the future.

— Alexus

Nijah Brown, childcare leader at Growing Sprouts Childcare
Owner & Center Director

Nijah Brown

  • Owner & Center Director
  • 3 Years Licensed Family Childcare
  • Early Childhood Education Student
  • Mother & Educator

Hello! I’m Nijah Brown, and I have a genuine passion for helping children learn, grow, and thrive in a safe, nurturing environment. As a mother, I understand firsthand the importance of finding childcare that feels like a second home—where children are loved, encouraged, and supported every day.

For the past three years, I proudly owned and operated a licensed family childcare program, where I built meaningful relationships with children and families while providing high-quality, individualized care. That experience strengthened my commitment to early childhood education and inspired me to continue growing as an educator and leader.

I am currently pursuing my Associate Degree in Early Childhood Education, with an anticipated graduation date of 2027. I believe that combining hands-on experience with continued education allows me to provide the highest quality care and learning experiences for young children.

My goal is to create an environment where every child feels valued, confident, and excited to learn. I look forward to partnering with families and making a positive impact in the lives of the children entrusted to my care.

— Nijah

Design vision

Our Vision for the Space.

Our design goal is a warm, welcoming, light-filled environment where children and families feel at home from the moment they walk through the door.

AI-assisted concept rendering of the Growing Sprouts reception and open common area — not a photo of a finished room
AI-Assisted Concept Rendering
Concept rendering: This AI-assisted visualization represents our design vision. Final layouts, furnishings, finishes, equipment, and features may differ.

Founded by a Registered Nurse

Health, safety, and compassionate care are built into everything we do.

Play-based curriculum

Hands-on, emergent learning that follows each child's curiosity.

Warm, welcoming space

A nurturing environment where children feel safe, valued, and excited to learn.

Big Bend, WI

A trusted local partner for families in our community.