Profile of a Business Owner: Christina Turner

Christina Turner is the owner of Manchester School for Young Children. Manchester is a Reggio-inspired preschool that was established in 2012, named after Christina’s great-grandmother, Christena Manchester.

Christina also has a second business, Steamopolis, where educators teach science (STEAM) labs to elementary students on scheduled days out of school.  

Christina grew up in Topeka, earning her bachelor’s degree in early childhood education from Washburn University and a master’s degree in early childhood special education from Emporia State University. She has twenty years experience in early childhood education. Christina was honored to be named one of Topeka’s Women Who Rock in 2013 and one of Topeka’s 20 under 40 in 2014.

TK: If you were stranded on an island, what 3 items would you be sure to have with you?

My daughter, Alyssia
Chapstick
A hammock

TK: What has been your greatest challenge?

The greatest challenge has been finding teachers that are willing to not only learn about the Reggio-inspired approach to teaching, but also willing to practice it.  As teachers, we are taught to teach in a very traditional way, from the top down.  Our teaching style at Manchester is very different than that.  

We believe that children can facilitate their own learning, but this only works if their teachers are willing to step back from their own agenda, observe and truly listen to the children.  When this happens, beautiful in-depth experiences take place. 

TK: How do you recharge?

I recharge by traveling somewhere beautiful or just being out in nature, surrounded by natural beauty. 

TK: How many businesses have you started/do you currently have?

I have started and currently have two businesses.  Manchester School for Young Children is a Reggio-inspired preschool for children ages 8 weeks to 5 years.  Steamopolis is an all-day science lab that takes place on various days that Topeka elementary schools are out, that teaches about STEAM: Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math!

TK: Who is your role model and why?  

My dad, Roy Haynes, is my role model.   He taught me to be kind and giving, and always help others in need.  I think he is the reason that I place so much value in doing community service.  He also believed in me, and I know that if he was still alive today, that he would be very proud of my accomplishments and would tell everyone he ran into about what his daughter was doing!  

TK: What advice would you give someone wanting to move-up?

Be kind to everyone that you meet. Every person you meet, professionally or personally, has the potential to open a door to a new opportunity.  You never know how that person could impact the larger picture of your life.