Today we’d like to introduce you to April Short.
Hi April, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
My name is April Short, and I am the proud owner of The Learning Playtime Spot in Laurinburg, North Carolina. My journey into entrepreneurship is deeply rooted in my faith. I wholeheartedly trust in God and believe in His holy word, and it was through His guidance and a vision placed on my heart that this business was born. I felt called to create a nurturing space where early learners could be supported academically, encouraged emotionally, and inspired spiritually as they begin their educational journeys.
Before opening The Learning Playtime Spot, God was preparing me through both education and experience. I hold a Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education and a Master’s degree in Early Childhood Education Leadership, and both have been instrumental in shaping the foundation of my work. My professional background includes years of experience working within the public school district, both in the classroom and at the district office, as well as serving in leadership and management roles. These experiences strengthened my skills, deepened my understanding of children’s needs, and taught me the importance of building meaningful relationships with families and the community.
Today, The Learning Playtime Spot offers a half-day private faith-based preschool program and after-school tutoring services for young learners. My goal is to ensure every child who walks through our doors feels supported, confident, and prepared for success. This journey has been a blessing, and I am grateful every day for the opportunity to serve children and families in my community while fulfilling the purpose God placed in my life.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
This journey most definitely has not been a smooth road. Like many small business owners, I have faced challenges along the way, especially when it comes to funding. Running a quality learning environment requires consistent resources, including educational materials, snacks for students, utilities, and many other day-to-day necessities. There have been times when the financial side felt overwhelming, but every time a need arises, God always makes a way. Through faith, prayer, and trusting in His promise, provisions have always come at the right moment.
Balancing responsibilities, learning the business side of entrepreneurship, and continuing to meet the academic and emotional needs of children has required strength, determination, and a lot of grace. But every challenge has strengthened me, increased my faith, and reminded me why I started this journey. Even through the obstacles, I remain grateful because each step, whether easy or difficult, has helped shape The Learning Playtime Spot into a place of purpose, growth, and blessings for children and families in our community.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your business?
The Learning Playtime Spot is more than just a preschool and tutoring program; it is a nurturing, faith-guided learning community where early learners are loved, supported, and encouraged to thrive. We specialize in working with young children, and we proudly serve families by offering a half-day private preschool program for ages 3–4 and after-school tutoring services for children ages 3–7 years old.
What truly sets us apart is the heart behind the work. I am extremely passionate about early childhood education, and I believe deeply that early learners matter and early education is critical to a child’s lifelong success. I am patient, compassionate, and dedicated to giving children the attention, support, and individualized care they deserve. At The Learning Playtime Spot, I believe in small classroom settings, meaningful one-on-one learning time, and hands-on experiences. Play is a very important part of learning here because children learn so much through movement, exploration, creativity, and imagination.
Our environment is intentionally designed to be safe, loving, supportive, and welcoming. I truly love children, and it brings me joy to watch them grow academically, socially, emotionally, and spiritually. I am especially proud that The Learning Playtime Spot offers a faith-based curriculum. Incorporating faith allows us to not only build bright minds but also compassionate hearts, positive character, and values rooted in love and kindness.
Another special part of our organization is that it is very family-centered. I serve as the director and lead teacher, and I personally provide all tutoring services so that every child receives focused, consistent support. My daughter, Alaiesha, serves as our Chief Operating Officer and plays a tremendous role in helping with day-to-day operations, planning, and business coordination. Together, we proudly run The Learning Playtime Spot with faith, dedication, and genuine love for children.
I want the world to know that The Learning Playtime Spot is a place where children are prayed for, cared for, and educated with purpose. We are committed to helping early learners succeed academically while ensuring they feel valued, safe, and cherished every single day.
Can you talk to us a bit about happiness and what makes you happy?
What truly makes me happy is knowing that I am making a real difference in children’s lives. Seeing a child grow in confidence, master a new skill, smile a little brighter, or feel proud of themselves brings me so much joy. Watching their curiosity bloom and knowing that I played a role in helping shape their early foundation is incredibly fulfilling. Early learners are precious, and it warms my heart to support them academically, emotionally, and spiritually as they grow.
I am also deeply grateful for the opportunity to support parents. It makes me happy to know that families can trust The Learning Playtime Spot as a safe, loving, faith-guided place for their children. Being able to provide encouragement, resources, guidance, and reassurance to parents means so much to me. Parenting is not always easy, and I am thankful that God allows me to walk alongside families and offer support whenever I can.
Ultimately, my happiness comes from serving, helping, and uplifting others. Making a positive impact, providing resources, and watching both children and families thrive reminds me daily that I am walking in my God-given purpose and that brings me joy beyond measure.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://tlpspreschool.com/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/15r5YWJCZu/?mibextid=wwXIfr
- Other: https://www.amazon.com/author/aprilshort1
