Intergenerational, Christian Daycare to Open in July in Perry, IA

Perry Lutheran Home and Acorns & Oaks Christian Daycare have partnered together to create a unique, yet perfect, match. Intergenerational programs offer younger and older generations the opportunity to interact, engage, and form connections that benefit both the individuals and the community. This life-enriching mission will provide countless benefits to both residents at Perry Lutheran Home and children at Acorns & Oaks.

“Perry Lutheran Home is one of the very few in Iowa, if not the nation, to offer Intergenerational, Christian Daycare in a long-term care setting. When you think about ways to enrich the lives of those around us, you immediately think about how relationships and connections are so very important to happiness, health and well-being. Acorns & Oaks will provide so much to both the children and our residents,” expresses Deb Koelln, RN, CDP, and Perry Lutheran Home Chief Care Officer.

Intergenerational programs provide benefits when strategically planned and implemented. Older adults can experience enhanced socialization, stimulated learning, increased emotional support, and improved health. Children whom are a part of these kinds of programs see improved academic performance, enhanced social skills, decreased negative behavior, and increased stability.

“Acorns & Oaks has even more to offer families beyond the incredible benefits of intergenerational connection. Our goal is to deliver well-rounded education to infants and toddlers, and to shape lives by way of Christian values, creativity, and innovation. Both evidence-based and creative-based curriculum will be utilized, specifically Zoo Phonics®, and the Gold® Assessment to measure progress. Children will be nurtured in a safe, Christian environment while learning about Christ’s love for them,” states daycare director, Tammy Kratz.

Kratz, from Jewel, IA, has over seventeen years’ experience leading child care programs in Iowa and holds certificates or has training in First Aid/CPR, Mandatory Reporting, Universal Precautions, DHS Childcare Preservice, and Medication Administration. Kratz is very passionate about children and the Acorns & Oaks intergenerational childcare mission. Kratz and husband are in the process of relocating to Perry.

Acorns & Oaks is currently accepting applications for children six weeks through five years. The tentative opening date is Monday, July 10. Hours will be Monday through Friday from 5:30AM to 6:30PM. Acorns & Oaks is also looking for passionate and qualified individuals to fill the roles of Lead Teacher and Teacher Assistant. To apply for childcare or open positions, or to schedule a tour, contact Tammy Kratz at tammy@acornsoaks.com or (515) 465-5342 x22.

The public is invited to come in for tours of the new space on Saturday, June 17 in conjunction with our Spring Brunch Fundraiser at the Perry Lutheran Home Main Campus on 2323 Willis Ave, Perry, IA. Free-will donation funds will be used to purchase playground equipment, outdoor toys, and make further modifications to the outdoor playground. This come-and-go event is from 9:00AM until 12:00PM and will consist of food, fun, and safety. Families are encouraged to come as a Child Safety ID Station will be set up and provided free of charge to parents.