Early Academy - Christ-Centered Education
Charity Cares Early Academy Logo
Christ-Centered Education

Early Academy

Nurturing the whole child through Christ-centered education from 10 weeks to 10 years. Where faith, learning, and love create the foundation for lifelong growth.

Academy Logo
Academy Hand Icon
Charity Cares Heart
Connections Circle
Age-Appropriate Learning

Our Early Academy Programs

Our programs are designed to meet children where they are developmentally, providing the right balance of nurturing care, engaging play, and structured learning experiences.

Nursery Care

Ages 10 weeks – 23 months

Nurturing care in a safe, stimulating environment focused on sensory development and secure attachment.

Learn more

Twos Town

Ages 24 – 35 months

Supporting independence, social skills, and early literacy in a playful environment for curious toddlers.

Learn more

Preschool UniverCity

Ages 3 – 4 years

Comprehensive curriculum focusing on kindergarten readiness and creative expression.

Learn more

School Age Adventures

Ages 5 – 10 years

Before and after-school care with homework support and enrichment activities.

Learn more
Academy Hand Icon
Charity Cares Heart

Nursery Care

Ages 10 weeks – 23 months

Program Highlights

Nurturing, responsive care in a safe, stimulating environment
Focus on sensory development and language acquisition
Personalized care routines based on each baby's needs
Daily activities promoting cognitive and motor development
Introduction to Bible stories and Christian songs

Daily Activities

Our nursery follows each baby's individual schedule while incorporating:

Tummy time and floor play
Sensory exploration activities
One-on-one caregiver interaction
Music and movement activities
Outdoor time (weather permitting)
Story time and quiet play
Nursery care for infants and toddlers

Building Secure Foundations

Creating lasting bonds through loving, responsive care

"In our nursery, we focus on creating a loving, secure environment where babies can explore and develop at their own pace. We believe these early experiences form the foundation for all future learning."

- Ms. Sarah, Nursery Lead Teacher

B.A. Early Childhood Education, 8 years experience

Connections Circle
Academy Logo
Toddlers in Twos Town program exploring and playing

Encouraging Independence

Fostering curiosity and self-discovery through guided exploration

"Two-year-olds are amazing little explorers! We create an environment that supports their growing independence while providing the guidance and boundaries they need to feel secure."

- Ms. Jessica, Twos Town Lead Teacher

A.A. Child Development, 6 years experience

Twos Town

Ages 24 – 35 months

Program Highlights

Supporting independence and self-help skills
Focus on language development and early literacy
Introduction to social skills and emotional regulation
Sensory-rich activities and creative exploration
Age-appropriate Bible lessons and prayer time

Daily Schedule

Our structured yet flexible schedule includes:

Circle time with songs and stories
Small group skill activities
Free play in learning centers
Outdoor play and motor activities
Rest time and quiet activities
Creative arts and exploration
Closet Hanger
Academy Hand
Charity Cares Heart

Preschool UniverCity

Ages 3 – 4 years

Program Highlights

Pre-academic skills including early math and literacy concepts
Social-emotional learning and conflict resolution
Creative arts, music, and dramatic play
Science exploration and hands-on discovery
Character development through Bible stories and values

Daily Schedule

Our daily schedule balances structured learning with free play:

Morning circle time
Literacy and phonics
Math and numbers
Science experiments
Creative arts and music
Outdoor play time
Preschool UniverCity classroom learning activities

Preparing for Kindergarten

Building essential skills through engaging, hands-on learning

"Our preschool program is designed to spark curiosity and foster a love of learning. We provide a nurturing environment where children can develop the skills and confidence they need to succeed in kindergarten and beyond."

- Mr. David, Preschool Lead Teacher

B.A. Elementary Education, 10 years experience

Connections Logo
Charity Cares Heart
Academy Hand
Children in School Age Adventures program

Extending Learning

Supporting academic success beyond the classroom

"Our school-age program provides a safe, engaging environment where children can continue to learn and grow outside of school hours. We focus on providing enriching experiences that complement their classroom learning."

- Ms. Emily, School Age Lead Teacher

M.Ed. Elementary Education, 7 years experience

School Age Adventures

Ages 5 – 10 years

Program Highlights

Before and after school care
Homework assistance and tutoring
Enrichment activities including arts, sports, and STEM
Field trips and community involvement
Character development and leadership skills

Daily Schedule

Balanced activities with homework support:

Arrival and free play
Homework time and tutoring
Snack time
Enrichment activities
Outdoor play and recreation
Pick-up time
Enrollment Information

Join Our Early Academy Family

We are excited to welcome new families to Charity Cares Early Academy! Here's everything you need to know about our enrollment process.

Requirements

  • Completed application form
  • Copy of child's birth certificate
  • Current immunization records
  • Medical examination report
  • Parent/Guardian identification

Tuition & Fees

Our tuition rates are competitive and reflect the high-quality care and education we provide.

Infant/Toddler: Contact for rates
Preschool: Contact for rates
School Age: Contact for rates
Registration fee: $75

* CCDF vouchers accepted. Payment plans available.

Priority Enrollment

Working Families

Families receiving CCDF assistance have enrollment priority

Haughville Residents

Community members receive preferential consideration

Second Generation

Children of former students and staff

Application Process

1

Submit Application

Complete and submit the application form with all required documents.

2

Schedule Visit

Tour our facilities and meet our dedicated teaching staff.

3

Interview

Meet with our director to discuss your child's needs and our programs.

4

Enrollment

Upon acceptance, receive your enrollment packet and welcome information.

Contact Us to Enroll

Call us at (317) CHARITY or visit our contact page

Charity Cares Heart Logo
Our Leadership Team

Experienced Leaders Serving Our Community

Our dedicated leadership team brings decades of experience in early childhood education, ministry, and community service to guide Charity Cares with passion and purpose.

Executive Leadership

Dr. Juaneka L. Thomas - Executive Director
Executive Director

Dr. Juaneka L. Thomas, D.S.S.

Executive Director

D.S.S. Social Science, M.Ed. Elementary Education, B.A. Early Childhood Education

28 years with Charity Cares (since 1997)
CDA & Director's Credential

Started as "snack lady" at age 18, became Program Director at 22, and transformed Charity into a nationally recognized community asset.

Pastor Jeffery Thomas Sr. - Founder
Founder

Pastor Jeffery L. Thomas Sr.

Founder & Pastor Emeritus

Founder of Charity Church Ministry, Inc.

Founded Charity Cares in 1988
37 years of ministry leadership

Visionary leader who started with "five family members" and grew the ministry into a multigenerational community asset serving Haughville.

Current Leadership Team

Charley Thomas

Building & Food Services Director

charley.thomas@charitycares.org

LaKeishia Owens, MA

Business Operations Director

l.owens@charitycares.org

Princess Burroughs, AS

Compliance Director

princess.burroughs@charitycares.org

Chara Harris, MA

Early Academy Director

chara.harris@charitycares.org

Tia Joseph, BA

Family Engagement Director

tia.joseph@charitycares.org

Shawna Quarles

School Age Director

shawna.quarles@charitycares.org

Pastor Jay Thomas

Pastor, The Bridge at Charity Cares

j.thomas@charitycares.org

Pastor Anita Thomas

Ministry Services, Charity Cares

anita.thomas@charitycares.org

What Makes Our Team Special

Multigenerational Experience

Nearly 45% of our staff represent second-generation employment, bringing deep community knowledge and commitment.

Highly Qualified

Our leadership team holds advanced degrees and credentials, with continuous professional development and training.

Faith-Centered Service

Our team is united by our core values: Faith Founded, Family Focused, and Future Forward - serving with love as our guid e.

Our Facilities

Safe and Inspiring Learning Environments

Our state-of-the-art facilities are designed to provide a safe, stimulating, and nurturing environment that supports your child's growth and development.

Bright, modern classroom with learning centers

Modern Classrooms

Age-appropriate learning centers with natural lighting

Classroom Features:

  • Flexible learning spaces for different activities
  • Natural lighting and proper ventilation
  • Age-appropriate furniture and materials
  • Interactive whiteboards and learning technology
Safe playground with modern equipment

Outdoor Playground

Safe, engaging spaces for physical development

Playground Features:

  • Age appropriate play areas for safety
  • Soft-surface flooring for fall protection
  • Shaded areas and water play features
  • Garden areas for nature exploration

Safety & Security First

Secure Entry

Keypad access and visitor check-in system

Surveillance

24/7 security cameras throughout facility

Health Protocols

Daily health checks and sanitization

Emergency Systems

Fire safety and emergency response plans

Parent Testimonials

What Families Are Saying

Don't just take our word for it! See what parents are saying about their experience at Charity Cares Early Academy.

5/5 stars

"My child has thrived at Charity Cares Early Academy. The teachers are so caring and attentive, and I've seen tremendous growth in my child's social and academic skills. The Christian values they teach align perfectly with our family's beliefs."

Sarah Johnson

Parent of Emma (Preschool)

5/5 stars

"I am so grateful for the loving and supportive environment at Charity Cares Early Academy. My child loves going to school every day, and I know they are in good hands. The communication with parents is excellent!"

Michael Rodriguez

Parent of Diego (Twos Town)

Ready to become part of our Early Academy family?

Start Your Enrollment
Get Started

Schedule Your Visit Today!

We would love to show you around our academy and answer any questions you may have. Contact us today to schedule a personalized tour!

Call Us

Speak directly with our enrollment coordinator

(317) CHARITY

Schedule Now

Call us to book your tour at your convenience

Schedule a Tour

Email Us

Get more information via email

love@charitychildcare.com
Visit Our Main Campus

959 N Holmes Ave, Indianapolis, IN 46222

Support Our Mission

Give & Support

Your generosity helps us continue our 29-year legacy of serving children and families in our community.

Financial Donations

Your financial gifts support our programs, facilities, and staff development, directly impacting the children and families we serve.

Call Us to Donate

Clothing & Item Donations

Donate new or gently used children's clothing, books, and educational toys to our Children's Clothing Closet.

Learn What We Need

Volunteer Opportunities

Share your time and talents to support our programs, events, and community outreach initiatives.

Volunteer With Us

Legacy Giving

Make a lasting impact by including Charity Cares in your estate planning. Your legacy gift ensures our mission continues for generations to come.

"Plant seeds of faith and love that will continue to grow for generations."

Get In Touch

Contact Us

We'd love to hear from you! Reach out with questions about our programs, enrollment, donations, or volunteer opportunities.

Send Us a Message

Contact Information

Address

959 N Holmes Ave, Indianapolis, IN 46222

Hours

Monday - Friday: 6:30 AM - 5:30 PM

Saturday - Sunday: Closed

Connect With Us

Social Media