Owners Kirk and Jenny Rose McKean’s journey with Children’s Lighthouse began when they became parents and understood firsthand how important it is to find a child care center that truly feels like home. When they enrolled their first child, Rosalie, they discovered a place where the staff’s warmth and dedication stood out.
“It was the first place we ever sent our child, and we immediately felt the difference,” Kirk said. “The care and connection we saw inspired us to bring that same love to our own community.”
After moving to Melissa, the McKeans saw a gap in quality early learning nearby. Making long drives for the right care was tough, and that’s when they realized they could make a real difference. In 2020, they committed to opening a Children’s Lighthouse in Celina, which welcomed its first families in March.
An inside look
Serving kids from 6 weeks to 12 years, Children’s Lighthouse Celina offers thoughtful, developmentally focused programs that meet children where they are:
- Lighthouse BRIGHT (6 weeks-24 months): Infants and toddlers explore the world through sensory-rich activities designed to connect learning with everyday experiences.
- Lighthouse CARES (2-5 years): Preschoolers take part in guided learning experiences that support cognitive, emotional and social development, using interactive lessons and imaginative play to encourage growth.
- xSTREAM Quest (kindergarten-12 years):The after-school and summer program focuses on fostering strong character, encouraging creativity and promoting community engagement through themed activities and hands-on experiences.
“Our curriculum supports the uniqueness of every child, offering many ways to learn,” Jenny Rose McKean said.
Wholesome care inside and out
Nutrition is another key component of daily life at Children’s Lighthouse Celina. The center is proudly dye-free, a choice made by the owners to prioritize children’s health. Meals are prepared fresh daily by an on-site chef, who steers away from processed foods and focuses instead on wholesome, balanced ingredients.
“When you're eating more wholesome foods, you're going to become a better learner, a better listener and a better friend,” Jenny Rose McKean said. “We are about creating that environment down to nutrition.”
The classroom experience is just as intentional. Teachers are carefully chosen for their warmth, energy and ability to engage young learners with empathy and enthusiasm. The goal is to create a safe, family-like atmosphere where every child feels seen, supported and loved.
Building trust and ensuring safety
Enrolling a child is a big step, and the team at Children’s Lighthouse Celina understands that deeply. From the very first day, families receive thoughtful, ongoing communication—not just about milestones, but about the small, everyday moments that make a difference.
The team also takes a proactive approach to safety. Any time a concern arises—no matter how minor—it’s thoroughly documented and investigated.
“It’s not just about reporting; it’s about showing parents we care enough to look deeper,” Kirk McKean said.
Children’s Lighthouse Celina also emphasizes emotional safety. If a child is having a rough day or struggling with a transition, staff step in with gentle support.
With ownership present and actively involved on-site, families know exactly who is behind the care their children receive. The result is a center where transparency, accountability and heartfelt dedication come together to create a community families can truly trust.
Join the Children’s Lighthouse family
For families considering enrollment, Children’s Lighthouse Celina offers a welcoming, supportive process. Parents can visit the website or call 682-900-2990 to schedule a tour or complete an enrollment form.
To learn more about Children’s Lighthouse Celina, visit the website here.
The above story was produced by Multi Platform Journalist Chloe Chapel with Community Impact's Storytelling team with information solely provided by the local business as part of their "sponsored content" purchase through our advertising team.
