Ridgefield Small Business Spotlight: Cabbage Patch Kids

RIDGEFIELD, CT — Our Small Business Spotlight shines a light on local businesses that we may not know that well. This week Patch features Cabbage Patch Nursery School, a new daycare and preschool that offers art, music, Kindergarten readiness programs and more— all in a beautiful, serene setting.

Business: Cabbage Patch Nursery School
Owners: Andrea Castellano
Website: https://www.facebook.com/cabbagepatchnurseryschool
Address: 29 Farrar Lane, Ridgefield, CT 06877

How did you come up with the name?

I have been running a home daycare for many years. One day we had all the kids playing outside. One of the parents showed up and said, "Wow, it looks like a cabbage patch!" The name stuck with the group.

Why start a business in this town?

I have been working in the field for over 20 years. I currently have a daycare in Norwalk, CT which is full of very happy kids, so my husband and I decided it was time to expand the business. After plenty of research, we decided to purchase "My Nursery School" at 29 Farrar Lane since it was running for 40 years. This historical school has been completely renovated with all the newest safety requirements and innovation.

Briefly, what business are you in?

I have been in the Child Care and Party Planning business for over 20 years. It has been something that comes easy to me and extremely enjoyable.

What’s the most difficult moment or challenge you’ve faced as a business owner?

Running a Nursery School isn't easy to get started. After purchasing the building at 29 Farrar, we spent over 8 months renovating the entire building and adding additional safety precautions for the children. We also needed to find the best teachers whom aren't just knowledgeable, but love to help children grow to their fullest potential. These challenges will never stop for us, since our school will continue to push forward on helping children learn while having a great time.

What’s been your favorite moment or proudest achievement since opening?

As a Mom, I love hearing the feedback from the parent's of our students. "My son now grabs his bag every morning and tells me to hurry up Mom, I don't want to be late for school." "My daughter use to cry when I dropped her off at her other preschool. Now she runs in and hugs the teachers good morning. Switching to Cabbage Patch was the best decision." As a Business Owner, I love working with local businesses. Tiger's Den for the preschool lunch program, Music with Bach to Rock and Ridgefield Suzuki School, Yoga with Jessica Outlaw, visits from Nature of Things and from Mad Science. More business will be joining us soon.

How does your business give back or get involved in the community?

Times are hard for everyone. It's our duty to help each other the best we can. As mentioned above, we work with the local businesses to help promote each other. We are a tight community so spreading the word is our best help. At Cabbage Patch Nursery School, we also want to give back by throwing free events. For example, on Oct 8th, we will be having an annual Fall Festival. This event was initially intended for just our students and families, but we wanted to give back to the community so we opened it to everyone. There will be a Pumpkin Patch for the children to pick their own pumpkin and decorate it (RSVP is required so we have enough pumpkins.) Also, we have a Bounce House, Games and Prizes, Baked Goods and Beverages (Cider and Water) all at no charge.

Click here for event info.

Would you like to see your business featured? Email wendy.mitchell@patch.com.