The Children's Center

A Mission Built on Love and Learning

The Children's Center stands as a beacon of care and learning, nourishing the minds and hearts of young children in the St. Joseph and Niles communities. Founded over 30 years ago by passionate educators Jay and Mary Wardlaw, our mission has remained unwavering: to provide a nurturing and stimulating environment where children can discover their potential while feeling loved and valued.

Our Values

At The Children's Center, love stands as our foundation. We believe in:

• Building relationships: Our dedicated teachers cultivate close and meaningful connections with each child, offering unwavering support and guidance.
• Nurturing potential: We celebrate individual growth and encourage children's natural curiosity through hands-on learning experiences.
• Creating a loving environment: A sense of warmth and security fosters a sense of belonging and emotional well-being in each child.

Our Services

We offer a comprehensive range of services for families with young children, including:

Childcare & Early Learning

• Loving and nurturing care for infants, toddlers, and children from 3 years old.
• Age-appropriate developmental activities that stimulate young minds.
• Consistent routines and schedules that provide a sense of security and stability.

Preschool Program

• Free Great Start Readiness Preschool Program for eligible families.
• Curriculum focused on social-emotional development and early literacy skills.
• Play-based learning experiences that promote creativity and exploration.

Additional Programs

• Summer camp for preschoolers and young children.
• Extended care options for working parents.

What Sets Us Apart

Our commitment to quality goes beyond simply providing childcare. We:

• Maintain a 4-star rating in both locations.
• Are consistently rated among the top 10% of licensed programs in Michigan.
• Employ experienced and caring teachers who are passionate about nurturing young minds.
• Offer a free preschool program for eligible families.

Join Our Growing Family

The Children's Center is seeking passionate and dedicated individuals to join our team as teachers and caregivers. If you have a love for children, a commitment to excellence, and a desire to make a difference in the lives of young learners, we encourage you to explore our career opportunities.