As we celebrate 60 years of Encompass, we’re inviting our community to “Share Your Encompass Story.” We’re excited to share the first story in this series as we go back 20 years to when the Soliday family began their journey with Encompass. Robin Soliday shares their story and connects how their children’s early experiences shaped who they are today as thriving young adults.

All three of my children were preschool students at Encompass, as well as summer camp attendees. As their mom, I was a regular visitor volunteering in their classroom. We have incredible memories of playtime, circle time, family-style meals, outdoor time, art nights, and more.

Encompass fed my children’s needs for play, exploration, connection, curiosity, social skills, and more. We loved the years we spent with Ms. Mary, Ms. Corissa, Ms. Brittany, and Ms. Julie, plus the amazing teaching assistants.

We participated in the Parents Co-op, where parents would take turns watching children while the other parents enjoyed a few kid-free hours. One memory really stands out from this time. It was our turn to watch the kids. While making pizza in the kitchen oven, my husband and I set off the fire alarm. Oops! Not only did we burn the pizza, but there were also plenty of tears caused by the fire alarm and the arrival of the fire department. We had hoped for an exciting night, but this wasn’t the kind of excitement we had in mind. Other than this blunder, we loved the opportunity to provide our kids with additional time in their classrooms and playground while we enjoyed evenings to ourselves.

My husband and I also participated in parenting courses and one-on-one coaching to allow us to connect with our children in ways beyond what we already knew. Some of our best memories of individual playtime were a result of what we learned through Encompass.

When my girls were older, they volunteered as camp counselors for multiple summers, wanting to give back to the place that meant so much to them as preschoolers and camp participants.

The Soliday Kids Today

My son, who is almost 24, is now a Project Engineer for GLY Construction. He could often be found building things during his time at Encompass.

My oldest daughter is 22. She was a social butterfly and always tended to others. She now has a degree in Digital Audiences, which helps companies broaden their reach via social media.

My youngest is 18 and just beginning college to study nursing. She was always cautious about approaching others and enjoyed playing solo, but once a connection was made, it was authentic. I’m excited to see her connection skills put to use in her field of study.

Our children were nurtured and cared for in ways that were intentional, thoughtful, and fun. They discovered, played, socialized, learned, shared meals, and so much more. Encompass was pivotal in our season of parenting young children – we are so grateful for all they provided for us as parents, for our children, and for us as a family.

Do you have a story, a favorite memory, or a photo you’d like to share? We’d love to hear from you! Click the button below to learn more.

Share Your Encompass Story