We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Christen West. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Christen below.

Hi Christen , thanks for joining us today. What’s the kindest thing anyone has ever done for you?

For years, I searched and searched for the perfect space to start my business. I had dreams and plans, but no matter how hard I tried, something always seemed to stand in the way. The places I found were too expensive, lacked the right fit, or just didn’t feel right. Every time I thought I was about to make a breakthrough, something would fall through, leaving me frustrated and disheartened. But then, one day, I came across New Christian Memorial Church through a Facebook friend, and everything changed.
I had prayed, hoped, and trusted in God, but I never imagined this church would be the answer to my prayers. This was the place God had meant for me all along. New Christian Memorial Church has been nothing short of a true blessing to me and my family. It’s as though God had been guiding me here all this time, even when I couldn’t see it.
They say, “If you want to make God laugh, tell Him your plans.” Well, I’ve told God my plans a lot, and I’m sure He’s got a good laugh at my voicemail full of thoughts and prayers. But one thing I’ve learned is that no matter how much I plan, God’s plan is always better. And His plan led me to this amazing church.
The people at New Christian Memorial Church have shown me kindness, love, and respect from the very beginning. They didn’t just offer me a space; they offered me hope and a new beginning. The warmth and generosity I’ve experienced here is something I’ll never forget. Pastor Rice, your leadership and your heart for others have been a true blessing to me and my family. I am also deeply grateful to Mr. Ron & Mr. Johnny for always being there with unwavering support, accommodating every request and concern with kindness and care.
One day, when I’m able, I’ll repay this kindness, but for now, I just want to say thank you. Thank you, New Christian Memorial Church, for being the hands and feet of God in my life. Your unwavering support has meant more to me than words can express. I will forever be grateful for the opportunity you’ve given me, and for showing me that God’s timing is always perfect.
With all my heart, thank you.
Christen (Precious Pumpkins Daycare)

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

I, Christen West, am a hardworking entrepreneur and a mother of three with a deep passion for working with children. My journey to owning Precious Pumpkins Daycare began with a leap of faith—one that was sparked after being turned away from my job. With a legal, business, and early childhood education background from Strayer University & Child Care Lounge, I always knew my true calling was in child care.
Starting off with a children’s transportation service, I poured my heart into my work, saving up and honing my skills. Through my dedication and unwavering belief in my mission, Precious Pumpkins Daycare was born. Despite the many obstacles, I didn’t let obstacles or setbacks stand in my way, and today, my business thrives as a loving and nurturing space for children.
At Precious Pumpkins Daycare, the goal is not just to be a “home away from home”—but to provide a safe, inclusive, and professional environment where every child feels loved, respected, and encouraged. I believe that not every home is filled with positivity, love, joy, respect, a safe space, God, or encouragement so I, my family as well as my team, focus on creating a place where children’s social, emotional, and cognitive needs are met with the utmost care and attention.
I am a God-fearing Christian, who keeps God at the center of all that I do. I am a trustworthy, loveable professional who is always learning and developing new skills to better serve children and families. My passion for children’s development shines through in every aspect of childcare, and I look forward to working with your little one!
At Precious Pumpkins Daycare, we follow the PUMPKIN Core Values:
Precious Pumpkins Daycare’s Core Values (P.U.M.P.K.I.N.S):
P – Positive Environment

U – Understanding

M – Mindfulness

P – Partnership

K – Kindness

I – Inclusion

N – Nurturing Growth

S – Safety

At Precious Pumpkins Daycare, these core values guide everything we do, ensuring that every child feels supported, cared for, and respected as they grow and develop in a loving and safe environment.

Any advice for managing a team?

To effectively manage a team and maintain high morale, it’s important to foster open communication where team members feel comfortable sharing their thoughts and concerns. Regular check-ins and feedback sessions help everyone stay aligned and heard. Recognizing and celebrating both big and small achievements shows appreciation for hard work, which boosts motivation. As a leader, leading by example—staying positive, approachable, and consistent—sets the tone for the team. Encouraging growth and offering opportunities for skill development shows care for their future success, while maintaining a healthy work-life balance helps prevent burnout. Building trust through transparency, honoring commitments, and empowering team members fosters a sense of autonomy and respect. Finally, staying positive and solution-oriented during challenges strengthens team resilience and unity, ultimately creating an environment where everyone feels valued, supported, and motivated to do their best.

Have you ever had to pivot?

In the childcare business, or in business in general, pivots are constant. From managing payroll to adjusting staff schedules, adapting to new parents, updating policies, and navigating different personalities—there are always changes to handle. Over time, I’ve learned to take one thing at a time and prioritize what’s most important. It’s essential to remember that you only have two hands and 24 hours in a day, so it’s about doing the best you can with the time and resources available. You can’t control everything, but you can trust and have faith that things will work out. Embracing flexibility and staying focused on what’s in front of you helps you manage those pivots more effectively and ensures that your business continues to grow and succeed.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://preciouspumpkins.com/
• Instagram: Precious Pumpkins Daycare
• Facebook: Precious Pumpkins Daycare
• Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/precious-pumpkins-daycare-baltimore?osq=precious+pumpkins+daycare&override_cta=Get+pricing