Paid for by Providence Childcare & Preschool
When Lisa Clark became a new mother, the thought of placing her infant son in child care filled her with apprehension. So, she followed her instincts and changed the trajectory of her life.
In 1999, alongside her mother, Faye Thomas, she opened Providence Childcare & Preschool. What began as a solution to a personal need blossomed into a beloved early-childhood program that has served over 2,000 children.
A former middle school teacher, Clark serves as Providence’s hands-on director. Over the past two decades she’s guided the center’s evolution from traditional instruction to a model rooted in research-backed, play-based learning.
“Years ago everything was about teacher-led, theme-based activities,” Clark explains. “It is what parents expected and what most of us were doing back then. But research has always shown that the best outcomes for children begin with play. Add some loose parts and nature, and children will amaze you with their creativity and engagement.”
At Providence, children explore and engage with thoughtfully designed, play-rich environments filled with loose parts, which are open-ended materials that spark creativity and exploration. These materials might include anything from wooden blocks to shells, fabric or recycled objects, all capable of being used in countless ways.
“There is not, nor will there every be, a one-shoe-fits-all curriculum in a box to buy and implement to ensure success for all,” says Clark. “During my master’s program I was introduced to the concept of curriculum being a living document – evolving to meet the ever-changing needs of the community, teachers and children. It is something I have continued to embrace, so we use what is best for us from a variety of research-based sources and published curricula.”
Currently, Providence uses elements from the Creative Curriculum, the Conscious Discipline Program and Get Set for School, all of which supports the play-based, loose-parts program. To ensure successful implementation in the classroom, there is an emphasis placed on staff development and training. Staff receive weekly coaching and training in play-based pedagogy and best practices through a partnership with Community Coordinated Child Care. Staff are also encouraged to participate in communities of practice programs, study tours and conferences both locally and out of state, also supported by Community Coordinated Child Care.
“It’s essential that our staff feel confident and equipped,” Clark says. “The educators not only provide invitations to play for the children, but they must also understand what the children are learning by engaging in that activity as it relates to the Kentucky Early Childhood Standards. When educators fully understand their role in this type of environment, magic happens.”
Providence currently enrolls around 140 children, aged 8 weeks to 5 years. There are at least two classrooms for each level of programming, and many educators “move up” with their students annually, fostering deeper relationships and a strong sense of continuity.
What sets the center apart is not just its philosophy, pedagogy and amazing staff, but also what’s on the menu.
“I’m so proud of our rotating, seasonal, plant-based menu that my son, Chase, and I created,” Clark shares. “Our chef, Melissa, cooks from scratch daily, often using ingredients from our gardens. We have two large natural playgrounds where we grow herbs, berries and vegetables. Sometimes the kids nibble the harvest before it even makes it to the kitchen. I’ve been known to say at Providence, children are empowered by play and powered by plants.”
Located at 11850 Commonwealth Drive, just off Blankenbaker Parkway, Providence maintains an open-door policy for families. Parents are encouraged to visit, observe and participate. Each classroom is equipped with cameras, and they utilize an app that provides real-time updates on children’s activities and routines.
“What matters most to parents is knowing that their child is safe,” Clark says. “That confidence comes from trust, and we work hard to create a culture rooted in transparency and open communication. We view feedback as an opportunity for growth and work hard to meet the needs of the families in our community.”
From a mother’s desire for safe, nurturing care to a well-established early learning center 25 years strong, Providence Childcare & Preschool stands as a testament to what’s possible when you embrace change as growth opportunities, and when one’s passion meets purpose.
