As the back-to-school season begins, it’s a time for both reflection and excitement. For many families in New York City, the return to school is a milestone that signifies not only academic learning but also a renewed focus on early childhood education. These early years are crucial, and with Mayor Adams’ recent announcement of increased investment in early childhood services, we’re reminded of the importance of supporting both our children and the small businesses that make this care possible.
We’re proud to highlight one of our Community Enterprise Accelerator (CEA) businesses: M&M 24HR Daycare, founded by Millie Carbajal. Located in the Concourse neighborhood in The Bronx, M&M 24HR Daycare is a lifeline for working families. Its 24-hour service provides parents with the flexibility they need, knowing their children are in a safe, nurturing environment no matter the time of day. This isn’t just a daycare—it’s a community hub where children are given the tools to thrive during these formative years.
Millie Carbajal: A Bronx Trailblazer in Childcare
Millie Carbajal, the founder of M&M 24HR Daycare, launched her business after experiencing firsthand the lack of childcare options while working in the demanding hospitality industry. Rather than returning to that field, she chose to create a 24-hour daycare to meet the needs of parents with non-traditional work hours. Known affectionately as Ms. Millie by her students, she has undergone extensive training in Early Childhood Education and was mentored by top experts in the field. Additionally, she pursued education in entrepreneurship, which has enabled her to successfully grow and sustain her high-quality daycare program.
Through her leadership, the daycare has expanded to include UPK and 3K programs, addressing the diverse needs of Bronx families. Millie’s dedication extends beyond just offering flexible care hours—she’s committed to fostering an environment that nurtures cognitive, emotional, and social growth, helping to set children on a path toward lifelong success. Through her work, Millie has become a cornerstone in the community, supporting parents who need care outside of typical working hours and ensuring that their children are well cared for.
A Visit to M&M 24HR Daycare: UPK and 3K Classrooms in Action
Last Thursday, I visited M&M 24HR Daycare to observe their UPK and 3K classrooms in action. As a former second grade teacher at PS 35 and a father of three daughters who attended daycare and UPK in The Bronx, I understand firsthand the impact of quality early childhood education on children’s academic, social, and emotional development. M&M 24HR Daycare’s classrooms are intentionally designed to promote early learning and development in a safe, supportive environment, filled with interactive activities and hands-on learning opportunities. I was inspired by the teachers’ dedication and the children’s evident joy. I also filmed my visit, and you can watch a short highlight reel embedded above to see M&M 24HR Daycare’s commitment to early childhood education in action.
The Importance of Early Childhood Development
Early childhood education is often cited as one of the most critical stages in a person’s life. According to the Center on the Developing Child at Harvard University, 90% of a child’s brain develops by age five. What happens during these early years can set the stage for lifelong learning, behavior, and health.
NYC’s increased investment in early childhood services aligns with the growing understanding that providing high-quality care during these years not only benefits individual children but strengthens our communities as a whole. Programs like those at M&M 24HR Daycare support cognitive, emotional, and social development, laying the foundation for success in school and beyond.
For more information on NYC’s early childhood education options, including 3K and Pre-K, visit the NYC Department of Education’s Early Childhood page.
The Small Business Backbone of Childcare
Many people may not realize that many of these early childhood providers are small business owners, like Millie at M&M 24HR Daycare. They face the same challenges as any other small business—managing payroll, staffing, navigating regulations—while also providing an essential public service. Their ability to thrive directly impacts the quality and availability of care for families across New York.
The Five Boro Institute’s Childcare in New York City Report provides key insights into the role that small, community-based childcare providers play in ensuring equitable access to early childhood services across the city. The report outlines the pressing need for more support to these providers, highlighting that many of them struggle with limited resources, inadequate compensation, and the regulatory burden that comes with operating in high-demand areas like The Bronx. It’s clear that these small businesses are critical to NYC’s economic health and the well-being of our families.
Organizations like WHEDco and BOC Network also play an essential role in supporting home-based childcare providers and offering resources to small business owners navigating the complexities of operating in the childcare sector.
At the Community Enterprise Accelerator, we are committed to supporting businesses like M&M 24HR Daycare. We believe that when small businesses like these succeed, entire communities are uplifted.
For small business owners looking for resources and support in NYC, visit the NYC Small Business Services for a variety of programs, from financing options to business development assistance.
A Brighter Future for NYC’s Children
As we celebrate the back-to-school season, let’s take a moment to recognize the critical role that early childhood education plays in shaping the future of our children and our city. By investing in small businesses like M&M 24HR Daycare and supporting early childhood development, we are building stronger communities and setting the stage for lifelong success.
Whether you’re a parent, a community member, or a fellow business owner, I encourage you to support local daycare providers and stay informed about how these small businesses are making a big impact. Check out our highlight reel below for an inside look at M&M 24HR Daycare’s UPK and 3K classrooms in action. Together, we can ensure that all children in NYC have access to the care and education they need to thrive.
Helpful Links:
- M&M 24-Hr Daycare Inc.
- NYC Early Childhood Education (DOE)
- Center on the Developing Child at Harvard University
- NYC Small Business Services
- New York State Office of Children and Family Services
- Bank Street College of Education Compensation Report
- Five Boro Institute’s Childcare in NYC Report
- WHEDco: Home-Based Childcare
- BOC Network: Childcare Business Development Project