Meet Vanette Gladney | Founder & Executive Director, Small People Child Development Center

We had the good fortune of connecting with Vanette Gladney and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Vanette, how do you think about risk?
I’ve learned that risk doesn’t always look like a single big leap. Often, it’s a series of calculated decisions made with limited information and a lot of faith in your preparation. Entrepreneurship has taught me to balance courage with structure, and passion while always planning.

Taking risks has also meant trusting myself. Not every decision works out perfectly, but each one provides clarity and plays a role in overall outcomes. Growth comes from staying accountable, adjusting quickly, and not letting fear stall momentum.

Can you give our readers an introduction to your business? Maybe you can share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
Small People Child Development Center was built at the intersection of lived experience, community need, and intentional care. What sets us apart is that we don’t operate from a one-size-fits-all approach. I bring a blend of West Coast and Southern values into everything we do, progressive thinking, structure, warmth, and a deep respect for family and community.

As a parent raising children with ADHD, ODD, and autism, I understand firsthand how important patience, consistency, and emotional safety are in a child’s daily environment. That perspective shapes how we design our classrooms, communicate with families, and support children with different learning styles and needs. We focus on structure without rigidity, guidance without shame, and development without pressure.

What I’m most proud of is creating a space where children are truly seen and families feel supported, not judged. Parents trust us during some of the most vulnerable years of their child’s life, and I never take that lightly. I’m also proud of building a program that prioritizes quality standards, accountability, and continuous improvement while still maintaining a personal, family-centered feel.

My journey to this point wasn’t easy. Building a childcare business requires navigating regulations, staffing challenges, financial pressure, and emotional demands all at once. There were moments where progress felt slow and obstacles felt overwhelming. What helped me overcome those challenges was staying grounded in purpose, seeking mentorship, learning from mistakes, and remaining flexible without compromising my values.

Along the way, I’ve learned that growth requires both humility and confidence. You don’t have to have everything figured out to move forward, but you do have to be willing to learn, adapt, and lead with integrity. I’ve also learned that the most meaningful work is built through consistency, not shortcuts.

What I want the world to know about Small People and my story is that this work is deeply personal. This isn’t just a business, it’s a commitment to children, families, and the communities we serve. Every decision is made with intention, empathy, and the belief that early childhood experiences have the power to shape futures.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
If my best friend were visiting Houston for a week, I’d want to show them the city the way it really feels, a mix of culture, good food, relaxed energy, and hands-on fun.

Food would be the starting point. Houston’s Mexican food isn’t the same as the primal street-style you find in California, it’s different and rooted in neighborhoods. We’d hit Doña Leti’s, Chuycho’s on Aldine Westfield, and Spanish Flowers for comforting, familiar flavors that feel like Houston.

To get outside, I’d take them to Discovery Green for a walk, people-watching, or catching whatever event is happening. It’s an easy way to feel the city’s pulse.

For drinks, vibes, and music, I’m always chasing wherever DJ Blu is spinning. If he’s at Shades, even better, that’s my go-to for a laid-back atmosphere with good energy and good tunes.

Midweek, we’d head to Kemah Boardwalk. It’s not Santa Monica, but it has its own charm, waterfront views, rides, and that mini-getaway feeling without leaving the area.

To balance everything out, I’d plan something hands-on like axe throwing or a creative stop at Love & Make. Houston shines when you’re doing something together, not just passing through.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I want to give a heartfelt shoutout to my grandmothers, whose love, strength, and quiet sacrifices shaped the woman and leader I am today. Their wisdom taught me the importance of patience, resilience, and creating spaces where children feel safe, seen, and valued. Everything I build is rooted in the lessons they passed down, whether spoken or simply lived.

I also want to honor my partner, Aundrea, for her unwavering support, belief in the vision, and willingness to stand beside me through the long days and uncertain moments. Building something meaningful requires faith and teamwork, and her presence has made this journey feel shared rather than carried alone.

I’m deeply grateful to Ms. Nikki, my TRS mentor, whose guidance, honesty, and encouragement helped me navigate the complexities of quality childcare and grow with confidence. Her mentorship has played an important role in shaping both my standards and my leadership.

Lastly, I want to thank the families who trusted me with their children and the mentors and educators who offered support along the way. This work is powered by community, and I carry that responsibility with intention every day.

Website: https://Www.smallpeoplecdc.org

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