Children of the Playhouse Daycare pose for a group photo in the final days of operation. Rose Brunssen, director, retired at the end of August. Photo Provided

Playhouse Daycare in Dysart has closed its doors but the memories made will last a lifetime.

Rose Brunssen was the director and owner of Playhouse Daycare. She began her career with a partner in her home as a childcare provider over 30 years ago. Her business partner’s children attended Brunssen’s program.

Playhouse Daycare was the only licensed facility in Dysart for 29 years.

After five years of operation, Brunssen moved into a building where she remained for 31 years.

“It’s very memorable work,” Brunssen said, “You have to love kids.”

Brunssen will cherish all the hugs, smiles and kind words she has received from parents over the years.

Throughout the years Brunssen did all sorts of activities with the kids. Every year they visited a dairy farm. They also took trips to see Santa Claus, had pajama days and even had visits from the Des Moines zoo each year.

The year 2020 has been like no other for Brunssen but she was lucky to be able to remain open during the pandemic. They were not able to do all of their normal summer activities but they made it work. They were able to go swimming.

Some of Brunssen’s fondest memories were getting to care for two generations of families. Thirty years ago she cared for kids who are now grown and have their own children. Sometimes she could see similar personality traits between child and parent.

“Families were very committed and loyal to me,” Brunssen said.

Children of Playhouse Daycare smile as they play with bubbles. Photo Provided

For anyone thinking about starting a child care facility Brunssen recommends looking into Childcare Resource and Referral for ideas, resources and ways to obtain grant money to the business off the ground.

“It’s better for young people because it takes a lot of energy,” Brunssen said.

Brunssen also noted reliability as a key quality to have.

With eight of the children heading into kindergarten this year, Brunssen decided now was a good time to retire.

Moving forward Brunssen would like to work a couple of days a week but for now she is enjoying retirement and cherishing time with her family.

She of course misses the kids and their eagerness to learn.

“I have been blessed to know so many wonderful families,” Brunssen said.

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