Programs
FAQs
We have 3 Locations To Serve Our Families:
The Children's Center -
Niles, MI
Serving families in the Niles community, this center offers free preschool for eligible 4-year-olds along with loving care and early education for infants, toddlers, and young preschoolers, & school-agers.
Call (269) 683-0405, visit our website: Nileskids.com.
The Children’s Center -
St. Joseph, MI
Our Peace Boulevard location is known for its family-first culture and free preschool classrooms, alongside high-quality care for infants, toddlers, and preschoolers.
Call (888) 926-0405, visit: WeLoveOurFamilies.com.
Montessori Children’s Center -
St. Joseph, MI
For families seeking a Montessori approach, our St. Joseph campus offers a nurturing, hands-on environment that encourages independence, creativity, and confidence from an early age.
Call (269) 256-1606, visit: MontessoriChildrensCenter.com.
Welcome!
A message from our founders…

Over 30 years ago, we began searching for child care for our 18-month-old daughter. What we found broke our hearts — and sparked a vision.
We imagined a place where relationships came first. A place where children, families, and teachers felt truly seen, supported, and loved.
That vision became The Children’s Center.
From our humble beginnings as a home-based program caring for six children, we’ve grown into a multi-site organization embracing more than 200 children and their families each day.
Children, staff, and families remain the heart of everything we do. Yes, we’re proud to have earned a 4-star rating at both of our locations and to be recognized among the top 10% of licensed programs in Michigan — but those achievements aren’t our ultimate goal.
For us, success isn’t measured in numbers or awards. It’s measured in smiles, hugs, and the lasting relationships we build with every family we serve.
The excellence of our program flows from our unwavering commitment to LOVE first and teach second.
We truly love our families — and we’re so grateful to be part of your child’s journey.
Sincerely,
Mary and Jay Wardlaw
The excellence of our program flows from our commitment to love first and teach second. Because when children feel loved, learning flows naturally.
Our Philosophy: Love First, Teach Second
At the heart of The Children's Center is a simple yet profound belief: children learn best when they feel safe, loved, and valued. Our philosophy begins with building strong, nurturing relationships with each child and family. We recognize that every child is a unique gift, created with purpose and potential.
Our approach integrates faith-based values with evidence-based early childhood education practices. We celebrate diversity, encourage curiosity, and foster independence while providing the gentle guidance children need to develop confidence and character. Through intentional daily interactions, enriching activities, and a curriculum designed for the whole child, we create experiences that inspire wonder and ignite a lifelong love of learning.
"Love is at the heart of everything we do. When children know they are cherished, they gain the confidence to explore, create, and grow into their best selves."
Our Programs: Growing with Your Family
Here's what we want every child to know! - Mary Wardlaw
Children, staff, and families are the heart of our program. We have a 4-star rating in both of our locations, and the State of Michigan has rated us among the top 10% of all licensed programs in the state.

However, our highest goal isn't about numbers or ratings; it's about building relationships and providing a loving environment for children to thrive. The excellence of our program flows from our commitment to LOVE first and teach second.

Infant & Toddler Care
Birth to 3 years
  • Nurturing relationships and individualized attention
  • Play-based learning for early development
  • Focus on language acquisition and social skills
  • Sensory exploration and developmental milestones
Preschool Program
3 to 5 years
  • Play-based curriculum for kindergarten readiness
  • Exciting activities for pre-reading, writing, and math skills
  • Strong focus on social interaction and relationship building
  • Cultivating a positive sense of community in classrooms
Free Great Start Readiness Preschool
For children four years of age
  • State-funded free preschool program
  • Available at both locations
  • Designed for qualifying families
  • Focus on school readiness and holistic development
School-Age Care
5 to 12 years
  • Before and after school programs
  • All St. Joseph schools provide transportation to our locations
  • Homework support and enrichment
  • Active play and recreation
We understand parents are interested in their children's learning journey. Therefore, every day we send emails with pictures and details about your child's day, including learning activities, meals, resting, and any important information about how your child is feeling. Meals and snacks are provided for every child.
Infant and Toddler Care: Where Little Lives Begin
At The Children's Center, nothing is more important than helping your baby feel safe and loved. Snuggling babies that are sleepy and holding them, holding them when we feed them their bottles, talking to them while we change their diapers and reading to them and singing with them at play time are just a few ways that we love to spend our day in the infant room.
Our approach is centered on nurturing care and developmental support:
  • Formula and baby food provided
  • Free diapers and wipes
  • Baby sign language taught
  • Strong emphasis on relationships - we LOVE first and teach second
  • Every infant and toddler has a primary caregiver who diapers, feeds and cares for him or her
  • Primary caregivers have up to 4 babies in their primary care group
  • Strong emphasis on developing relationships with the small group of infants, keeping their routine consistent and providing a warm, loving environment
Our infant teachers use Teaching Strategies Creative Curriculum for Infants, Toddlers and Twos. Every day activities are planned that help infants and toddlers to take new steps in their development. For infants, activities may include encouraging a baby to reach for a toy, supporting an older infant who is eager to start crawling, or celebrating as that almost-toddler begins to take first steps.
Our toddlers are beginning to explore dramatic play as they care for their baby dolls, they are practicing their large motor skills as they bounce, kick and throw balls and they are learning to love reading stories and being read to.
In all of our infant and toddler rooms, baby sign language is being taught so that babies not yet able to speak can communicate and let us know when they are hungry, thirsty or tired. Our infant and toddler program is centered around the babies needs, both physical and emotional, and we will always LOVE first and teach second.
Preschool: Building Strong Foundations for Lifelong Learning
Intentional Play-Based Learning
Our curriculum is thoughtfully designed to nurture every aspect of your child's development through engaging, hands-on play. From building with blocks to exploring sensory bins, children learn fundamental concepts in math, science, and literacy at their own pace, fostering a deep love for discovery and problem-solving.
Comprehensive Kindergarten Preparation
We focus on developing the cognitive, social, emotional, and physical skills essential for a smooth transition to kindergarten. Activities are structured to build early literacy, numeracy, and critical thinking, while also promoting independence, self-regulation, and effective communication vital for future academic success.
Rich Language and Literacy Environment
Through daily storytelling, phonics games, emergent writing activities, and rich conversations, we immerse children in a print-rich environment. Our approach fosters vocabulary expansion, phonological awareness, and a genuine enthusiasm for reading and writing, setting the stage for strong foundational literacy skills.
Nurturing Social-Emotional Growth
Our program emphasizes cultivating empathy, cooperation, and conflict resolution skills through guided group play and collaborative projects. Children learn to understand their emotions, build positive relationships, and develop a strong sense of self within a supportive and inclusive community, preparing them to thrive in any social setting.
What Our Families Love

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Parent Testimonials

Rated 4.9 out of 5 stars!
"The Children's Center is wonderful! The teachers go above and beyond, when my son was struggling with the transition of starting at the center they helped him by writing out a daily schedule that he could follow to help him know what was going to come next. Thanks to them, the transition has been easier not only on my son but us as parents. We're very thankful for the program and the people that care for our children!"
— Kelsey W.
"The Children's Center has been a blessing to our family. The teachers genuinely love our daughter, and we see her confidence growing every day. She comes home excited to share what she learned and the friends she played with. We couldn't ask for a better environment for her to grow."
— Sarah & Michael T., Parents of Emma
"What I like best about The Children's Center is the friendly atmosphere. When I bring my son into the center he has about 20 hello's before he reaches his classroom. He loves story and music time and going outside to play. One of the greatest benefits of bringing my son here is that it is an educational program, my son is learning while he's at the center"
— Tamesha Carroll
"We like the faith-based aspect of The Children's Center and that our daughter is learning bible stories. Her favorite things to do at the center are singing the songs they teach, doing art projects and praying before meals. The teachers are friendly and greet us when we are coming and going and they work with us when we have questions or concerns. We have appreciated the support the staff has given us in things such as potty training our child."
— Tom and Rebecka Hoyt
"Before putting Jaysin into daycare there were so many concerns I had... would he hit other students or be aggressive with the teachers? After day 1 that wasn't an issue. In the morning our routine is that mommy gets ready, then Jaysin gets ready. All I have to say to him is "time for school, Mrs. A is waiting to play!" No fussing, no tantrum, he's up and ready! Even before we are through the doors he is running to his classroom. His teachers are amazing and very involved with Jaysin and his classmates. I am glad I made the choice to send him here!"
— Elizabeth Dorsey
"Our favorite things about The Children's Center are the wonderful activities that they plan, especially in the summer. My boys get a visit from the ice cream truck, they take field trips to the library and they get to play at Riverfront Park on sunny days. They love the fun and awesome staff who take care of them, especially Miss Judy."
— Abbi Wegner
"I have 2 year-old twin boys that have been at The Children's Center since they were 5 months old. My boys have learned how to walk, and lots of other fundamentals since they've been attending the center. Sometimes I am just amazed at what they know. The staff at The Children's Center truly care for the children, and it really matters to me. I am glad I have someone I can trust my children with and I don't have to spend my day worrying if they're okay. Thank You!"
— Rhonda Thomas
"Our daughter Lydia loves coming to The Children's Center. As an only child this allows her to socialize with other children and to learn in a classroom environment, to prepare her for kindergarten. She comes home having had a full day of fun, arts and crafts, and learning. She is challenged and encouraged. As a working mom, I love knowing I can leave her there and she gets this exciting and educational environment with staff that I trust and have become friends with."
— Barb Chappell
"I am very thankful for the care my daughter receives at The Children's Center. I work third shift, so my daughter attends during the day while I get some sleep. It's so nice being able to sleep during the day knowing that my child is in good hands. She gets time to play with friends and is even learning so much. I wouldn't choose any other daycare for her to attend."
— Amanda Price
"We decided to enroll our son in preschool mostly for the social interaction benefits. We were amazed after his second day of school when he was speaking in longer sentences and using more vocabulary. He is doing amazing with writing his own name! We look forward to seeing the artwork and projects he creates. All of the staff members are compassionate and friendly."
— Stephanie Reed
Why Families Choose Us
Faith-Based Foundation
Our Christian values guide everything we do, creating a loving environment where children learn about kindness, gratitude, and serving others. We welcome families of all backgrounds who appreciate our faith-centered approach to character development.
Family Partnership
We view parents as partners in their child's development. Through daily communication, regular conferences, family events, and an open-door policy, we build strong relationships that support your child's success and your family's wellbeing.
Educational Excellence
Our research-based curriculum is designed by early childhood experts and delivered by qualified, passionate educators. We focus on the whole child—cognitive, physical, social, emotional, and spiritual development—preparing children for lifelong success.
Safety & Security
Your child's safety is our top priority. We maintain secure facilities, conduct thorough background checks, follow strict health protocols, and staff our programs with trained professionals who hold CPR and first aid certifications.
Welcoming Community
The Children's Center is more than a school—it's a community where families connect, children make lasting friendships, and everyone feels they belong. We celebrate diversity and create inclusive spaces where every child is valued.
Proven Track Record
With over 30 years of experience serving families, we have a long history of excellence. Our graduates enter kindergarten confident and well-prepared, and many families return with younger siblings, a testament to the quality of our program.
Meet Our Exceptional Team
The staff at The Children's Center have been hired first because of their shared vision to LOVE our families. From the littlest ones in our care who are rocked, cared for and snuggled, to our preschoolers and older - our focus is building relationships, celebrating when children reach new milestones and comforting when they are sad.

Every teacher is here to LOVE our families.
"The Staff at The Children's Center truly care
for the children and it really matters to me." - Rhonda T
Beyond this fundamental commitment, our team members are carefully selected for their qualifications and experience. Our teachers hold degrees in early childhood education or related fields and participate in ongoing professional development to stay current with best practices. What truly sets our team apart is their passion, patience, and dedication to seeing each child thrive. They arrive each day ready to nurture, inspire, guide, and celebrate. They wipe tears, tie shoes, answer endless questions, and create magical moments that children remember forever. Our teachers build relationships with families based on trust, respect, and shared commitment to children's wellbeing.
Many of our staff members have been with us for years, some even decades, creating stability and continuity for the families we serve. Their experience, combined with their caring hearts, creates an environment where children feel secure, valued, and loved—the foundation for all learning and growth.
We also offer a Registered Apprenticeship program, providing staff with the opportunity to "Get paid while working toward their CDA!"

What Makes Our Teachers Special
Qualified & Experienced
All teachers meet or exceed state requirements with degrees in early childhood education, child development, or related fields. They bring years of hands-on experience working with young children.
Passionate About Children
Our teachers chose this profession because they genuinely love working with children. Their enthusiasm is contagious, and children respond to their warmth and authentic care.
Continuous Learners
We invest in professional development, ensuring our team stays informed about the latest research in early childhood education, child psychology, and developmentally appropriate practices.
Family-Centered
Our teachers value family partnerships and work closely with parents to support each child's unique needs, celebrate milestones, and navigate challenges together.
Curriculum That Inspires Growth
Our curriculum is carefully crafted to nurture the whole child—intellectually, physically, socially, emotionally, and spiritually. We use a play-based, child-centered approach that recognizes each child learns differently and at their own pace. Our teachers observe, document, and respond to children's interests, creating learning experiences that are both meaningful and engaging.
Each day includes a balance of teacher-directed activities and child-initiated play, quiet reflection and active exploration, individual work and collaborative projects. We integrate faith-based values naturally throughout the day, teaching children about kindness, gratitude, forgiveness, and love through stories, songs, and lived examples.
Our curriculum addresses all developmental domains: cognitive skills through problem-solving and critical thinking, language and literacy through rich conversations and exposure to books, mathematical thinking through counting and pattern recognition, physical development through outdoor play and fine motor activities, creative expression through art and music, and social-emotional growth through friendship-building and emotional regulation.
We assess children's progress regularly through observation and documentation, sharing insights with families and adjusting our approach to meet each child's evolving needs. Our goal is not simply kindergarten readiness, but developing lifelong learners who are curious, confident, and compassionate.
Faith Integration: Growing Hearts & Minds
Faith is woven naturally into the fabric of our program, creating a foundation of love, purpose, and belonging. We begin each day with gratitude, teach biblical principles through age-appropriate stories and songs, and model Christian values in our interactions. Children learn that they are uniquely created, deeply loved, and capable of making a positive difference in the world.
Our faith-based approach is gentle and inclusive. We welcome families from various backgrounds who appreciate our emphasis on character development, kindness, and spiritual growth. We celebrate God's creation through nature exploration, teach about caring for others through service projects, and create a culture where love, forgiveness, and grace are practiced daily.
Daily Devotions
Age-appropriate prayers and blessings throughout the day
Bible Stories
Stories that teach timeless lessons about love and character
Service Learning
Projects that help children serve others and share God's love
Worship Music
Songs that bring joy and reinforce spiritual truths
Tuition & Financial Information
We believe quality early childhood education should be accessible to families. Our tuition is competitively priced and reflects the high level of care, experienced staff, and excellent curriculum we provide. We offer flexible scheduling options including full-time and part-time enrollment to meet your family's needs.
Transparent Pricing
Our tuition structure is clear and straightforward with no hidden fees. Rates vary by age group and schedule. Contact us for current pricing information.
Multiple Payment Options
We accept various payment methods for your convenience. Tuition can be paid weekly, bi-weekly, or monthly through automatic bank draft or online payment.
Sibling Discounts
Families with multiple children enrolled receive a discount on tuition for younger siblings, making quality care more affordable for growing families.
Subsidy Programs
We accept state childcare subsidy assistance and can help families navigate the application process to access available support programs.
We're happy to discuss financial arrangements during your tour and work with families to find solutions that make enrollment possible. Investing in your child's early years provides returns that last a lifetime.
Frequently Asked Questions

💛 General Information
What ages of children do you serve?
We are blessed to care for children from 6 weeks through 12 years old. We also offer a preschool program for children ages 2 ½ through 5 during the school year.
What are your hours of operation?
We are here for families Monday through Friday, 7:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. We're open year-round, closing only on major holidays such as New Year's Day, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving (Thursday and Friday), Christmas week, Good Friday, and New Year's Eve
Are you faith-based?
Yes. Our program is rooted in love and faith. We weave songs, Bible stories, and prayers into our days, nurturing children's hearts as well as their minds.
🌿 Enrollment & Fees
How do I register my child?
Before a child's first day, families complete an application, contract, immunization and health forms, and food program paperwork. This helps us get to know your child and keep them safe and healthy.
Is there a registration fee?
Yes. A one-time registration fee holds your child's spot. It is nonrefundable but helps us prepare and welcome your family with care.
How is tuition paid?
Tuition is due each Monday for the week ahead and is paid through our secure Kangarootime app. Families may use a bank draft or debit/credit card (3% fee applies to cards).
Are there any other fees?
A two-week deposit (or $200 minimum per child) is required at enrollment. There may also be fees for late pick-up, early arrival, or returned payments. We promise to always be clear and transparent with you about costs.
Do you have a referral program?
Yes! When a family you refer enrolls, you'll receive up to one month of tuition free (up to $1,000) as our thank-you for spreading the love.
🌈 Daily Routines
What does a typical day look like?
Every day is filled with joy, play, and learning. Depending on their age, children may enjoy art, music, outdoor play, story time, and quiet rest. Our days are designed to give children both structure and freedom to explore.
Do children go outside every day?
Yes! Fresh air and movement are so important. We go outside daily unless the temperature/wind chill is below 25°F for toddlers/older children or below 40°F for infants, or weather conditions are unsafe. Please send children dressed for the weather so they can fully enjoy their play.
🍎 Meals & Nutrition
Are meals and snacks provided?
Yes. We provide nourishing meals and snacks that meet USDA guidelines. Breakfast, lunch, and two snacks are included in your child's day.
Can I send food from home?
Of course. Families who wish to send meals may fill out a "Meals from Home" form so we can keep your child safe and healthy.
Do you support breastfeeding mothers?
Absolutely. We offer a private, cozy space for mothers who wish to breastfeed or pump, and we provide safe storage for expressed milk.
🧸 Health & Safety
What is your illness policy?
We kindly ask children to stay home if they have a fever, vomiting, or diarrhea within the last 24 hours. This keeps our whole community healthy. If your child becomes ill during the day, we'll comfort them until you arrive.
Do you administer medication?
Yes—with your written permission and clear instructions. Prescription medication must be in its original container. Over-the-counter medication requires a signed form from parents.
What if my child gets hurt at school?
For anything serious, we'll call right away. For small bumps or scrapes, we'll let you know at pickup with a written note. Your child's safety and your peace of mind are always our priority.
🌟 Behavior & Guidance
How do you guide children's behavior?
We believe children learn best through love, encouragement, and gentle teaching. We guide children with positive interactions, helping them understand choices and practice kindness.
What happens if a child is unsafe?
If a child's behavior puts themselves or others at risk, we partner closely with families to create a plan of support. Our goal is always to nurture growth, but safety must come first for all children.
🤝 Family Involvement
Can parents visit during the day?
Yes! Parents are always welcome. We have an open-door policy for custodial parents and guardians. We love when families stop in to share a smile, a story, or a helping hand.
How can families be involved?
Families often join us for class activities, celebrations, and field trips. We also welcome parents to share cultural traditions, music, or stories that enrich our community.
🎒 Practical Details
What should my child bring?
A labeled change of clothes (including socks and underwear), Weather-appropriate outdoor wear (coats, boots, mittens, hats, snow pants, etc.), Nap items: a small blanket and sheet (and a small pillow if you'd like), Big smiles, ready for a day of play and learning!
What is your dress code?
Children should wear comfy, casual clothing for active play. Rubber-soled shoes are required for safety. Please avoid flip-flops or boots indoors.
Learn
Ready to Join Our Family?
Thank you for considering The Children's Center for your family. We understand choosing childcare is one of the most important decisions you'll make, and we're honored to be part of your consideration. We invite you to experience our warm, loving environment firsthand.
Schedule a tour today to meet our incredible team, see our beautiful facility, and discover why families trust us with their most precious gift. We can't wait to meet you and your child, answer your questions, and begin this exciting partnership. Your child's journey of growth, discovery, and love begins here.
"The excellence of our program flows from our commitment to love first and teach second. Because when children feel loved, learning flows naturally."
The Children's Center, Inc.
Phone: Contact us through our website | Email: info@thechildrenscenterinc.com
Where every child is loved, valued, and inspired to grow.
Nondiscrimination Statement
SNAP and FDPIR State or local agencies, and their subrecipients, must post the following Nondiscrimination Statement:
In accordance with Federal civil rights law and U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) civil rights regulations and policies, the USDA, its Agencies, offices, and employees, and institutions participating in or administering USDA programs are prohibited from discriminating based on race,
color, national origin, sex, religious creed, disability, age, political beliefs, or reprisal or retaliation for prior civil rights activity in any program or activity conducted or funded by USDA.
Persons with disabilities who require alternative means of communication for program information (e.g. Braille, large print, audiotape, American Sign Language, etc.), should contact the Agency (State or local) where they applied for benefits. Individuals who are deaf, hard of hearing or have speech disabilities may contact USDA through the Federal Relay Service at (800) 877-8339. Additionally, program information may be made available in languages other than English.
To file a program complaint of discrimination, complete the USDA Program Discrimination Complaint Form, (AD-3027) found online at: How to File a Complaint, and at any USDA office, or write a letter addressed to USDA and provide in the letter all of the information requested in the form. To request a copy of the complaint form, call (866) 632-9992. Submit your completed form or letter to USDA by:
(1) mail: U.S. Department of Agriculture
Office of the Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights
1400 Independence Avenue, SW
Washington, D.C. 20250-9410;
(2) fax: (202) 690-7442; or (3) email: program.intake@usda.gov.
This institution is an equal opportunity provider.
Hours & Location
Program Hours
Monday through Friday
7:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.
Flexible scheduling available to accommodate your work schedule. Extended hours ensure working parents have reliable care during their commute and workday.
We have 3 Locations To Serve Our Families:
The Children's Center -
Niles, MI
Serving families in the Niles community, this center offers free preschool for eligible 4-year-olds along with loving care and early education for infants, toddlers, and young preschoolers, & school-agers.
Call (269) 683-0405, visit our website: Nileskids.com.
The Children’s Center -
St. Joseph, MI
Our Peace Boulevard location is known for its family-first culture and free preschool classrooms, alongside high-quality care for infants, toddlers, and preschoolers.
Call (888) 926-0405, visit: WeLoveOurFamilies.com.
Montessori Children’s Center -
St. Joseph, MI
For families seeking a Montessori approach, our St. Joseph campus offers a nurturing, hands-on environment that encourages independence, creativity, and confidence from an early age.
Call (269) 256-1606, visit: MontessoriChildrensCenter.com.