New inter-generational, Christian preschool opening in Perry September 2023

News

Acorns & Oaks Christian Academy, a Christ-centered place of love and learning for babies and children, announces the grand opening of an inter-generational, 3- and 4-year-old preschool to serve the Perry community.

Since 2017, Acorns & Oaks Christian Daycare has provided babies and children age 6 weeks through 5 years a one-of-a-kind, daycare experience through regular, inter-generational interaction with older adults living at Perry Lutheran Homes.

“The benefits of inter-generational programming are resounding. And, Acorns & Oaks Christian Academy remains one of few childcare centers in the nation to be located within a senior living community. Here, children not only develop and grow academically, they also grow in their faith. And, because of the inter-generational aspect, they learn to value older adults and become comfortable around assistive devices such as wheelchairs and walkers. They learn to see people and love them for who they are on the inside looking past various devices and/or limitations,” said Rev. Max Phillips, CEO of Perry Lutheran Homes.

Acorns & Oaks Christian Academy came to fruition as a ministry outreach through a partnership with Christ Lutheran Church in Bouton, Iowa and Perry Lutheran Homes in Perry, Iowa. After renovation at Perry Lutheran Homes King’s Gardens Campus, and generous support from many partners, including the Dallas County Foundation, the Bock Foundation, Iowa District West, the Lutheran Women’s Missionary League, members of Christ Lutheran Church, and many individuals, Acorns & Oaks began serving families in the summer of 2017.

“My heart is invested heavily in Acorns & Oaks Christian Academy. I’ve watched it grow from a concept to a daycare to now opening a preschool. Over the past 6 years, Acorns & Oaks has touched so many lives with the light and love of Christ. I spend an hour or two every Sunday morning visiting with residents. The wise “Oaks” almost always bring up a story about their little ‘Acorns” that they get to know, watch grow, and love. I look forward to continued growth and the lives that will be touched in the years to come,” shared Dave Menz, President of Christ Lutheran Church – Bouton and Acorns & Oaks board member.

Intergenerational programs provide benefits when strategically planned and implemented. Children whom are a part of these programs see improved academic performance, enhanced social skills, decreased negative behavior, and increased stability. And, the benefits for older adults are numerous.

“Acorns & Oaks Christian Academy has even more to offer families beyond the incredible benefits of intergenerational connections. Each child will be nurtured in a loving, Christian environment designed to grow their faith through Godly play, Christian curriculum and books, ‘Jesus time’ and prayer, Bible study and worship, and numerous Christ-centered activities, lessons, music and more,” states Mandi Ballentine, Director of Acorns & Oaks Christian Academy.

Ciera Bronnenberg, Acorns & Oaks Christian Academy preschool teacher and Mandi Ballentine, Director of Acorns & Oaks Christian Academy.

Children at Acorns & Oaks Christian Academy receive individualized attention and support from dedicated teachers committed to their growth and well-being. The goal is to deliver holistic education to children to shape lives by way of Christian values, creativity, exploration and academic excellence. Children learn in proven ways that will build a foundation for their successful future.

The Acorns & Oaks Christian Academy preschool space is designed around 6 classroom learning centers to provide an environment lead by the curiosities and needs of your child through hands-on, experiential learning and components of Montessori Method and Reggio Emilia Approach. This offers an enhanced educational experience that adapts to the needs of a variety of learners. The 6 classroom centers are as follows:

  1. Nature Center, including a bird aviary, to create unique experiences with science
  2. Math & Manipulatives Center to promote hands-on learning by doing
  3. Art & Literacy Center to explore creativity with a variety of materials
  4. Library Center to include themed and a variety of interesting books
  5. Practical Life Center to develop skills needed for everyday life such as preparing snacks, washing dishes, zipping, buttoning, tying shoes, folding laundry, and more
  6. Godly Play Center to engage with and explore Bible stories through hands-on story figures

The community is invited and encouraged to attend a Perry Chamber of Commerce Ribbon Cutting event on Tuesday, September 19 at 8:00AM at Perry Lutheran Homes King’s Gardens Campus located at 2323 Willis Avenue, Perry. Learn more at www.AcornsOaks.com.