Writer / Julie Yates
Photographer / Eli Beaverson
Located in Fishers near Target at 11680 Commercial Drive, Village Playcare offers parents a unique and flexible service. It is a childcare solution for infants up to 12 years old, that is upscale yet affordable and meets the needs of today’s parents. Children play, learn and socialize in an enjoyable, safe environment either for a few hours or a parent’s entire workday.
Co-owners Sarah and Kevin Negangard came up with the concept of Village Playcare after experiencing the need for quality, on-demand daycare. Sarah, who is certified in Pre-K and Elementary and has 10 years teaching experience, holds a degree in fine arts along with a master’s with a specialization in cross-cultural teaching. While working in the field of educational publishing, she had a home office but needed child care while she had appointments. She was unable to find a reliable location that didn’t require her to sign up for a fixed schedule.
“I wanted to create a place that offers flexible childcare for parents,” Negangard says. “We’re perfect for everyone — stay-at-home parents who just need a few hours for appointments, full-time parents who need a backup solution or parents who utilize a grandparent but need another part-time option and an opportunity for little ones to socialize.
“We are actually ‘playcare.’” she adds. “We believe that kids need time to explore and simply play. While socializing with others their age, they experience themed sensory play, an assortment of loose parts, repurposed materials and tools to explore and create. We have a birds’ nest clubhouse for the older kids, and a wooden climber and slide for the younger children.”
Making a reservation is required for an infant and recommended for older children to ensure that a spot is available. Currently, special summer rate packages are available for hourly visits, whole day or part-time schedules. The facility’s on-demand themed summer camps have been a popular option, too.
Village Playcare offers educational opportunities as well. This fall, a flexible preschool is available. Parents can choose the number of days their child attends. A preschool interest form is accessible on the center’s website. Parents who submit the form will be informed when registration opens. In addition, the center has a multi-age preschool prep program with activities inspired by Reggio Emilia and Montessori best practices.
“We are a new option for parents that simply hasn’t existed before,” Negangard says. “After so much has recently changed, I know that parents need us. Many families now have new working situations that they are trying to navigate. We can also be utilized while parents go to appointments since often children aren’t currently allowed.
“We’ve really been able to help families who need a flexible choice. Our biggest goal is to be part of local families as we help them navigate this world of childcare in a modern way.”
Village Playcare is located at 11680 Commercial Drive in Fishers. To make reservations and for information on program rates, visit them online at VillagePlaycare.com or call 317-697-5503.
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