Knox Child Development Center serves children ages 6 weeks to 12 years and their families. Based at Knox Church, we strive to provide children with emotional, physical, spiritual and academic foundations that will enhance self-esteem, confidence and enthusiasm throughout their lives.

Our Communications

We use the app, Brightwheel, to document your child’s day, delivering progress reports, milestones, news and photos.

Our Curriculum

Younger children (Tadpoles, Bears and Bunnies classrooms)

Frog Street Curriculum based on the four developmental domains: social/emotional, cognitive, physical and language.

Older children (Koalas, Hedgehogs and Frogs classrooms)

Curriculum based on weekly themes.

For all classrooms:

  • Christian curriculum in weekly lessons

  • Chapel once per week

  • Basic skills of Conscious Discipline by Becky Bailey, Ph.D.

  • Jemima’s Playhouse, a music and language interactive cultural enrichment program, twice per month

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Director

Kieli Gebremeskel — Mrs. Kieli — graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in early education and early childhood development from Northwest Missouri State University. She also has master’s degree hours in early childhood development from the University of Missouri-Kansas City. She and her husband, Tsegaye, have two sons.

Kieli has been managing child care for nearly two decades. She has been a member of Knox Church since 2005, and became director of Knox Child Development Center in May 2019.

“I love working with the children and seeing them grow and learn. I’m inspired knowing that the staff is making a difference in their lives, and that parents entrust us to love and care for their children.”

 
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Lead Teacher

Emily Pedersen — Ms. Emily — is second in command at Knox Child Development Center. She is working on a child development associate’s degree. She and her partner, Aaron, have a daughter.

Emily has been working with kids at Knox Child Development Center since 2005.

“I love working with families and being creative in teaching children — I love them!”

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Cook

Denise Dennis — Mrs. Denise — prepares dietitian-planned meals. She has licensed practical nurse training from Kaw Valley. She and her husband of 48 years, Mike, have two sons and four grandchildren.

Denise has been cooking for Knox Child Development Center since 2000.

“The children keep me young! You must be quick on your feet, quick to think and quick to respond. I keep making memories here at Knox.”