When starting the Lenawee Intergenerational Learning Academy (LILA), Nikki Dodson did not imagine her one daycare would expand to multiple parts of the county and possibly to other regions as well. Nikki began by doing some research, which was when she discovered the childcare needs in the area were larger than she had anticipated. In particular, she realized families in the community needed extended hours, especially those working second and third shifts. There was also a lack of options for parents who had children with special needs.
With the help of Lenawee Now and the LION Fund, Nikki was able to start her business in Blissfield, where enrollment filled up quickly. She also put together a preschool program, originally drawing from a single curriculum. However, she soon had to reevaluate, due to every child’s unique learning style.
“The first day of preschool, I literally went home and cried because everything I did was not what those kids needed.” Nikki Recalled, “I think even that first week we changed everything about our curriculum.”
The curriculum was restructured to assess each child’s educational and emotional development and to focus on a creative curriculum from a wide variety of teaching philosophies. The first part of the school year focuses on interacting, sharing, and playing, while still learning basic letters and numbers. Intergenerational learning has always been an integral part of the curriculum, as it is mutually beneficial to both children and seniors. It exposes preschoolers to a different generation. Studies have shown having children visit a senior center makes seniors happier and healthier as well.
Due to her success and the continued need throughout the county, Nikki Dodson opened a second facility in Adrian.
According to Nikki “Lenawee Now has been really supportive. If I have business questions, I’m able to go to Tim or Jim. They can guide me in the right direction, or they have some connections that can give me that information.”
Although enrollment has always been good at the childcare centers, the endeavor has had several struggles. Staffing has always been a large concern. Especially when caring for children who need one on one attention, it can be difficult to find adequate staffing for the number of children in the centers. Also, licensing, and necessary equipment have been difficult, as they can be costly items. Nikki is grateful that the LION fund assisted in covering such costs.
Despite the fact enrollment was not heavily impacted due to COVID-19, the daycares have been heavily impacted by the pandemic. Having to shut down because of staff or child sickness has imposed a burden on families who were dependent on LILA’s childcare. The pandemic impacts intergenerational learning as well. Because of restrictions on the senior living centers, the children are no longer able to interact with the seniors.
Before COVID, the LILA partnered with five senior centers, which they hope to start visiting again soon. Currently, there are 176 children enrolled across all centers, which include full-time, part-time, and weekend students. Nikki is in the process of starting another daycare center, which she anticipates will bring in another 60-70 students, upon opening.
In all the learning centers, Nikki helps to promote a positive culture by ensuring each child is accepted, no matter their background or level of development. Nikki makes it a priority to let the preschoolers know that not all children are the same. She also makes sure no child feels out of place because of their race or culture.
Another way Nikki ensures a positive culture is by getting to know the families of enrolled children. States Nikki “Being engaged with your staff and your children and your parents, I think is the key to being successful here. You know that when their children come in here, they’re just not a number. They’re not a dollar sign.”
Quality of care is at the forefront of any expansion endeavors. According to Nikki, when she says she is done after starting three daycares, her husband just shakes his head. She would like to expand to Monroe and Washtenaw Counties and has even looked at expansion as far as Florida.
When reflecting on her process of starting and growing the Lenawee Intergenerational Learning Academy, Nikki cited her drive and passion for how she helps children and families as her primary drivers for success.