Nurturing Growth,
Building a Village
for Every Family
Discover the journey behind Cribs2CrayonsELRC— a sanctuary where we support a child’s learning, emotions, social skills, physical health, and creativity so they grow into a well-rounded individual.
Our Story
At Cribs2Crayons Early Learning and Resource Center, our mission is to provide a warm, loving, and high-quality early learning experience where children feel safe, valued, and inspired to grow. We truly believe it takes a village, and we are committed to being a trusted partner to families as they navigate the beautiful (and sometimes challenging) journey of raising confident, capable children. Grounded in faith and purpose, we live by the belief that “If you train a child in the way they should go, when they are old they will not depart from it..” With that guiding principle, we focus on building strong foundations in character, learning, and life skills starting from the earliest years.
We take a wrap-around approach, supporting the whole child and the whole family. We understand that children thrive when families are supported, empowered, and included. That’s why we prioritize open communication, respectful relationships, and meaningful partnerships with parents and caregivers. From enrollment to daily check-ins and ongoing goal-setting, we work side-by-side with families to identify strengths, address needs, celebrate growth, and create consistent support between home and school.
Our program is led by licensed teachers and trained professionals with years of experience in child care and education. We bring both heart and expertise to the work we do—providing developmentally appropriate instruction, nurturing guidance, and intentional learning experiences that build language, early literacy, math thinking, social-emotional skills, independence, and curiosity. We recognize that every child learns differently, so we provide individualized support and instruction to meet children where they are and help them move forward with confidence. Whether a child needs enrichment, extra practice, or additional developmental support, we tailor strategies and learning opportunities to help them succeed.
Cribs2CrayonsELRC is committed to helping children gain the skills they need for kindergarten readiness and beyond. We don’t just prepare children for the next grade—we prepare them for life by strengthening communication, problem-solving, emotional regulation, teamwork, creativity, and perseverance. Our classrooms are designed to encourage exploration, active learning, and meaningful play, while also promoting routines and structure that help children develop responsibility and self-control.
We are proud to provide dependable, family-centered services that fit real-life schedules, including before and after school care, to ensure children have a safe, enriching place to learn and belong outside of the regular school day. In every setting—infant, toddler, preschool, or school-age—our commitment stays the same: children deserve to be cared for with patience, kindness, and consistency.
Above all, Cribs2CrayonsELRC exists to cultivate a community where children are loved, families are supported, and learning is joyful. We are building more than a center—we are building a village—one child, one family, and one bright future at a time.
The Heart of Our Village
Mary Buchanan, lovingly known as Auntie Mary
Co-Founder & Program Director
Say hello to Mary Buchanan, lovingly known as Auntie Mary around the center. I’m honored to serve as Co Director of Cribs2Crayons Early Learning and Resource Center here in Waterloo.
I have spent more than 25 years working in child care, and for over 30 years I have also been a licensed foster and adoptive parent. Those years have shaped me in a way that goes beyond experience on paper. They have taught me how to truly care for children and families with patience, consistency, and a whole lot of heart. I bring deep knowledge of DHS expectations and early child development, but I also bring something I hold just as important, a steady, evidence based love for children and a commitment to serving families with dignity.
People who know me well will tell you two things. My door stays open, and my table stays full. No child in my care has ever gone without what they needed, and I take that personally. I believe every child deserves to feel safe, protected, and valued, and every family deserves support that is real, not just spoken.
Before I entered child care full time, I was a licensed cosmetologist for over 20 years and even co-owned my own salon. That background taught me professionalism, customer service, and how to build trust with people from all walks of life. I also hold an Associate’s degree in corrections, which strengthened my ability to stay calm under pressure, set clear expectations, and respond with wisdom and compassion in challenging situations.
At Cribs2Crayons, my role is to help ensure our center runs with strong systems, safety, and consistency while keeping the warmth and family feeling that children deserve. I want every parent to know that when you walk through our doors, you are not just enrolling in child care. You are joining a village, and we are truly glad you are here.
Shayla Buchanan,
the kids call me Dr. B!
Co-Founder & Program Director
Hello! I’m Shayla Buchanan, the kids call me Dr. B! I’m proud to serve as the Co Director of Cribs2Crayons Early Learning and Resource Center here in Waterloo.
My love for teaching started when I was a little girl teaching Sunday School in my childhood church. Even then I knew I wanted to help people learn, grow, and feel seen. That calling has stayed with me for nearly 20 years in education and leadership. I have served children, families, and staff in many different spaces, from early childhood and Head Start to elementary education, tutoring, and adult education. I have supported learners with special education needs and IEPs, and I have also taught adult GED preparation, English Language classes, and Citizenship courses. No matter the setting, my goal has always been the same. Meet people where they are, build confidence, and help them take the next step.
At Cribs2Crayons, I focus on making sure our learning is intentional, warm, and developmentally strong. I care deeply about strong teaching, consistent routines, positive guidance, and helping children build early literacy, language, and problem-solving skills in ways that feel natural and joyful. I also believe families deserve a true partner, someone who communicates, listens, and works alongside them because it really does take a village.
Music is also a big part of who I am. I have played the violin since I was seven years old, and I love helping children learn music reading and beginner violin skills. Music teaches patience, focus, and confidence, and it gives kids another way to express themselves and shine.
Thank you for trusting us with what matters most. We are building Cribs2Crayons to be a place where children are loved, supported, and challenged, and where families feel welcomed from the moment they walk in the door. We are so glad you are here.
Our Modern Learning Spaces
Explore our thoughtfully designed classrooms and play areas, where safety meets inspiration. Every corner is crafted to foster curiosity, creativity, and character, supporting your child's comprehensive growth in a warm and welcoming environment.
Why Families Choose Us
Qualified Educators
Our passionate teachers are certified specialists in early childhood education, dedicated to your child's success.
Enriching Environment
We provide a vibrant, safe, and engaging space designed to spark curiosity and promote holistic growth.
Safety First
Your child’s safety is our top priority, with state-of-the-art security and strict health protocols in place.
Community Spirit
We believe it takes a village to raise a child and are committed to building a supportive village for every family.