“Chickadee Ridge Early Learning Center — where children learn, play, and grow surrounded by nature.”
At Chickadee Ridge Early Learning Center, our mission is to nurture children’s natural curiosity through play-based, nature-rich learning. Located in the heart of the Eagle Creek and Estacada area, we are rebuilding and expanding our early learning program to meet a growing community need for high-quality, affordable child care.
While we are currently operating as a license-exempt provider, serving three or fewer children, our vision is to reopen as a fully licensed Certified Family Child Care program. This next step will allow us to welcome more families into our program while maintaining the small, nurturing, child-centered environment that defines Chickadee Ridge.
Investing in Outdoor Learning Through the CCIF Grant
Our recent application to the Oregon Child Care Infrastructure Fund (CCIF) is a cornerstone of this work. The grant will support essential improvements to our outdoor multiuse learning space, including the addition of new fencing and safety surfacing designed to enhance accessibility, safety, and outdoor exploration.
Outdoor learning is not just an extension of our classroom — it’s the heart of it. We believe that fresh air, movement, and sensory-rich play build stronger bodies, calmer minds, and a lasting love for the natural world. Our outdoor environment will serve as a living classroom where children engage with nature daily, developing independence, problem-solving skills, and environmental awareness.
A Foundation of Quality and Accountability
Chickadee Ridge previously held a 5-Star Spark QRIS rating, Oregon’s highest recognition for early learning quality. This distinction reflects our ongoing dedication to developmentally appropriate practice, strong family partnerships, and continuous professional growth.
As we move forward, we are committed to re-engaging with Spark and maintaining alignment with Oregon’s Early Learning and Development Standards.
We are also working closely with our DELC Licensing Specialist to ensure that every step of our reopening meets or exceeds the Child Care Licensing Division (CCLD) guidelines. From safety and sanitation to curriculum and environment design, our program is built on a foundation of compliance, accountability, and quality assurance.
Supporting Families and Community
We recognize that access and affordability are critical for working families. That’s why Chickadee Ridge plans to participate in Oregon’s Employment Related Day Care (ERDC) subsidy program, helping reduce financial barriers to quality child care.
Additionally, we are preparing to apply as a Preschool Promise grantee, expanding opportunities for children ages 3–5 to receive free, high-quality preschool in a nurturing, inclusive environment.
These partnerships reflect our belief that early education is not a privilege — it’s a right. Every child deserves access to safe, enriching learning experiences that set the stage for lifelong success.
Experience and Vision
Chickadee Ridge Early Learning Center is guided by years of professional experience in early childhood education and special education.
As the program director and lead teacher, I bring a background that includes:
- 15 years of experience as a child care provider, preschool teacher, and in special education.
- A current pursuit of a Bachelor of Science in Psychology (expected completion June 2026), with coursework emphasizing child development, learning theory, and social-emotional growth.
This combination of education and experience shapes a program philosophy centered on:
- Child-led exploration: Encouraging children to take an active role in their learning through curiosity and play.
- Nature-based curriculum: Using the outdoors as a classroom for problem-solving, creativity, and discovery.
- Inclusive practice: Supporting diverse learners and fostering a sense of belonging for every child.
- Community partnership: Collaborating with families and local organizations to strengthen our shared commitment to early learning.
Looking Ahead
Our vision is clear: to reopen our license as Chickadee Ridge as a model of rural child care excellence, where families find connection, educators are valued, and children thrive in a safe, stimulating environment.
We’re deeply grateful for the support of the Oregon Department of Early Learning and Care (DELC), CCLD, Spark, CCIF, and the Preschool Promise initiative — each playing a vital role in helping providers like us serve Oregon’s children and families.
(Photo caption suggestion: “Future site improvements will enhance outdoor learning spaces with safe fencing and surfacing, creating an inviting environment for play and discovery.”)
Join Our Journey
We invite families, community members, and partners to follow our progress as we move through the licensing and grant process.
- 💛 Stay connected: Follow Chickadee Ridge Early Learning Center on social media for updates and photos of our transformation.
- 🌱 Join our interest list: Families interested in enrollment are encouraged to join our waitlist or reach out for more information.
- 🌟 Support local child care: Share our story or connect with us to learn how you can help expand early learning opportunities in our community.
Together, we’re building something lasting — a place where children grow strong roots and take joyful steps into their future.