the lakes
Children's center

The Lakes Children’s Center offers a unique educational experience for children 8 weeks to 5 years of age. Located on Lake Jaquith, our Christian and nature-based school is open weekdays from 7:00 AM- 5:00 PM.

Our Reggio Emilia inspired program and discovery-centered curriculum provides children with hands-on, playful learning and creates experiences for children to learn about God’s love and the Bible. The classroom environments have accessible, open-ended materials that encourage development through language, movement, art, play and community building. Our outdoor space has a playground, logs, stumps and more. Our program is open for enrollment to all families and children of Waupaca and the surrounding communities.  

The Lakes Children’s Center, as an extension of The Lakes, exists to honor God’s deep love for children by providing a safe environment, caring staff, and opportunities for children to explore nature and learn through play. We strive to partner with our families and staff to create a community of belonging and support; rooted in God’s truth and love. 

Thank you for your interest in The Lakes Children’s Center!
Please follow the application process below. Once submitted, we will reach out to you shortly regarding availability and our current waitlists.

The Infant Classroom is staffed with educators who understand the importance of forming trusting relationships with the infants in care. Infants’ unique needs are quickly responded to with attentive care and reasurement. Caregivers hold infants, sing/talk to them and make meaningful connections with them. Multi-sensory rich experiences are provided, such as play with light/shadows, textures, and age appropriate art materials. 

The Toddler Classroom is inspired by children’s interests and their strong need for movement. Educators find playful ways to expand children’s learning, speech and age appropriate independence skills. Children’s needs are addressed in a nurturing way, including help with emotional regulation. The classroom provides children with opportunities to build, create, sing, dance and develop strong attachments to others.

The 2 Year Old Classroom is a safe place to take risks and learn the power of autonomy. Educators in this classroom assist children with learning self care habits with toileting, dressing, hand washing and more. The environment inspires children to express themselves through language, dramatic play, art experiences, block play and more. Childrens’ curiosity and questions is welcomed and encouraged. 

The Preschool Classroom and 4K wrap around care is an engaging, play-based environment where children will dig deeper into interests. Staff expands children’s learning by providing discovery experiences, books, photographs and more. Activities are designed to develop gross/fine motor skills, increase vocabulary and background knowledge and strengthen social skills and resilience. The staff honors children’s needs and diverse learning approaches. 

Click the button below to fill out a short application for your child. Please fill out one per child. (You will need to create a Brightwheel account to access the application form).

The director will reach out to you shortly after you apply to set up a quick tour and meeting.  The meeting will give you an opportunity to learn more about our program, have any questions answered and help determine if you would like to complete the registration process.

After touring our facility, you will be emailed a link to complete the registration process online and pay a one time $50 per child or $75 per family registration fee. 

The director will work with families to create a start of care plan.