By BROOKE CHAU / bchau@oakdaleleader.com
When it comes to community, childcare, and fun, Janice Ramos could be considered somewhat of an expert. Ramos celebrates 30 years of her Oakdale daycare, Jan’s Playland, this summer.
Ramos actually started her daycare business in San Jose in 1976. Fourteen years later, she moved to the Cowboy Capital of the World where she continued her daycare business. Ramos has been heavily involved in the Oakdale community since the minute she arrived. She was the co-owner of Oakdale Sports, a local sports store, with her sister, Shirley Willis in 1991. For 16 years, she sat on the board for the Oakdale Youth Softball Association (OYSA). In her spare time, you can find her golfing at the Oakdale Golf and Country Club where she has been a member for over 20 years.
When it comes to celebrating 30 years of business in Oakdale, Ramos stated, “I have taken care of over 640 children, I want them to leave here with respect, manners and memories.”
The children that attend Jan’s Playland also often leave with friends that they will have forever.
“I started coming to Janny’s at six months old and now I am about to start third grade at Sierra View Elementary,” said Mette Willms.
Word of mouth is what has helped Ramos stay in business. Although she has had a waiting list for several years, she does not have any openings at the moment.
“People know me and my heart,” said Ramos. “I am now watching my daycare kids’ kids. I have family generations that enter my home for daycare.”
The children that attend Jan’s Playland enjoy the benefits of establishing lasting friendships and having another place to call home.
“Janny’s house is fun because we listen to music, play outside with friends and take naps,” laughed six-year-old Thea Pattison. “Janny is like a grandma to me.”
While there are many options for childcare in and around Oakdale, Ramos feels what helps to set her apart is the bond that she keeps with the children once they grow older.
Jan’s Playland is open Monday through Friday from 7 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. at 229 Pinkston Ave., in the heart of Oakdale. Ramos said she has no plans of retiring and looks forward to watching her daycare kids grow up and have children of their own.
“These kids are the future of Oakdale,” said Ramos. “Thirty years is a long time, but I am not stopping.”