#United States #Kiddie Academy #Child Care #New Lenox

Kiddie Academy of New Lenox Under New Ownership

Kiddie Academy, a well-known name in educational child care, has announced a change in ownership for its New Lenox location. Kelly Harper and Chris Grahn, the dynamic couple already running Kiddie Academy of Lemont, took over operational responsibilities in March following the retirement of the previous owner. This transition marks an exciting new chapter for the community's child care services as they introduce their unique approach to early childhood education.

A Community-Focused Approach

Harper and Grahn have established themselves as multi-unit operators in the Kiddie Academy system. They believe that each Academy should be tailored to cater to the specific needs of its surrounding community. With this philosophy at the forefront of their operations, the couple is excited to enhance the educational offerings of Kiddie Academy in New Lenox.

"New Lenox is in an ideal location for parents who work at Silver Cross Hospital, especially since we offer a 6 a.m. drop-off option," Harper explained. Furthermore, the Academy is positioned to provide convenient drop-in care for caregivers who wish to enjoy the amenities of the new Crossroads Sports Complex, which is directly next to the center. This flexibility caters to the needs of modern families, making it easier for them to balance work and parenting.

State-of-the-Art Facility

The Kiddie Academy of New Lenox promises a nurturing and stimulating environment for children. The facility features ten classrooms designed to foster creativity and learning, along with a large playground for outdoor activities. Located at 674 Cedar Crossings Drive, this modern Academy is built with the children's development in mind. Harper and Grahn are dedicated to ensuring that the educational child care they provide is of the highest standard.

In addition to their New Lenox location, Harper and Grahn operate Kiddie Academy of Lemont, which they opened in 2021. This Lemont location has already gained recognition as the New Academy of the Year within the Kiddie Academy franchise system, a testament to their commitment to quality.

Experienced Team

Harper, a dedicated mother of four, holds an MBA specializing in entrepreneurship and has experience in legal-technology sales. Grahn, bringing a tech-savvy approach to operations, has started hosting synchronized holiday light shows that provide families with memorable experiences. Their combined expertise and passion for child development have driven them to improve the quality of educational child care throughout the Chicago region. Currently, they are also developing a third Kiddie Academy location in Lockport.

Community Engagement

Being active in the local community is essential to Harper and Grahn’s mission. As Chicago natives, they understand the importance of being involved and giving back. They have sponsored local Little League teams in nearby Joliet and continue to support various community events in New Lenox.

"We aim to meet parents where they are in the New Lenox, Lemont, and Lockport neighborhoods through quality educational programs," Grahn stated. This grassroots approach fosters strong connections with families, ensuring that Kiddie Academy is not just a place for child care, but a partner in their children's growth and learning journey.

About Kiddie Academy

Kiddie Academy has been a leader in educational child care since its founding in 1981. The company serves families with children aged six weeks to twelve years, offering various care options including full-time, part-time, and summer programs. The proprietary Life Essentials® Curriculum is designed to support children’s development and prepare them for future success. Additionally, the organization’s philanthropic initiatives extend beyond the classroom, including a partnership with Family Promise, a national nonprofit organization focused on homeless families.

With over 350 locations across 40 states and the District of Columbia, Kiddie Academy is committed to providing high-quality education and care. Each franchise is independently owned and operated, ensuring local control over how education and engagement are delivered in their communities.

For more information about Kiddie Academy of New Lenox, visit kiddieacademy.com/new-lenox.