Hebron, Kentucky, United States

Licensed Early Learning with the Warmth of Home

Home-grown, Type II licensed—play-based learning; diapers, wipes, meals & Kendamill® included.

Childcare Types Explained

Babysitter

Unregulated In Home Childcare

Registered Provider

Provides occasional care and supervision for children. Not regulated by the state and does not follow a formal curriculum or inspection process.

Registered Provider

Unregulated In Home Childcare

Registered Provider

Cares only for related children such as grandchildren, nieces, or nephews. Must pass background checks to qualify for families to use CCAP assistance, but is not licensed or certified and is not subject to regular inspections.

Unregulated In Home Childcare

A legal option in Kentucky where care is provided in the caregiver’s home for three or fewer unrelated children. No state inspections or formal training requirements.

Certified In Home Childcare

Licensed Type II Child Care Home

Unregulated In Home Childcare

Care provided in the caregiver’s home for up to six unrelated children. Regulated by the state, requires training, background checks, safety inspections, and compliance with health and safety standards. Typically only one provider on site and all age groups are together.

Licensed Type II Child Care Home

Care provided in a residential setting, like Tykes Academy, for seven to twelve children. Must meet all certified home requirements but is held to stricter standards, more documentation, and higher staff-to-child ratio requirements. Typically at least one provider on site and age groups are separated.

Type I Childcare Center

Licensed Type II Child Care Home

Care provided in a dedicated facility (not a residence) for thirteen or more children. Must meet the highest level of staffing, training, safety, and facility standards set by the state.

The Tykes Academy Advantage: Licensed, Nurturing, and Unique

We Accept CCAP

Structure That Feels Like Play

The Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) helps Kentucky families cover the cost of childcare so parents can work, attend school, or participate in job training. If you qualify, CCAP can pay part or all of your childcare tuition directly to Tykes Academy.

How to Apply:

Visit the Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services CCAP page.
Complete the online application or apply through your local DCBS office.
Provide proof of income, work or school schedule, and your child’s information.

Already approved? Simply list Tykes Academy as your childcare provider when you apply or update your case.

Structure That Feels Like Play

At Tykes Academy, we follow a daily rhythm built on The Creative Curriculum, which blends intentional teaching with plenty of time for child-led exploration. Our routines and smooth transitions help children feel secure, know what to expect, and confidently move between activities.

Children here learn through play, not rote drills. That means your child might be “playing store” to build math and social skills, digging in the sensory table to explore science concepts, or acting out a favorite story to develop language. Every moment is designed to spark curiosity, encourage problem-solving, and nurture a lifelong love of learning—while still feeling joyful and natural.

Learn More About Daily Schedules

Healthy Meals & Snacks

Structure That Feels Like Play

Healthy Meals & Snacks

We believe nourishing meals are just as important as quality learning. We provide a rotating monthly menu that is nut-free and egg-free, ensuring safety for all children while offering variety and balanced nutrition.

We partner with 4C for Children through the USDA Child and Adult Care Food Program, which ensures every meal meets strict nutrition guidelines for healthy servings and portions tailored to young children’s needs.

For our infants, we proudly provide Kendamill® infant formula at no cost to parents, so families can rest easy knowing their baby is getting premium nutrition without the added expense.

Our Teachers

Our Parent Resources and Technology

Healthy Meals & Snacks

Our dedicated and caring staff are passionate about early childhood education and have the experience and qualifications to provide high-quality care.

Jessica Meier, the owner, is equipped with a BA in Psychology and a Masters in Legal Studies. She also is pursuing an additional Masters Program in Early Childhood Education with Morehead State University as of spring 2025.

Melina Jackson has served 13 years in childcare and brings a plethora of knowledge. She will be obtaining her Director’s Credential in 2026.

Fatima Nouhy is a staunch advocate for childcare providers and families who seek childcare. Her passion has taken her to Frankfort to meet with legislators to drive impactful change. She will finish her CDA program November 2025 and currently holds a CCCC.

Our Parent Resources and Technology

At Tykes Academy, we believe strong partnerships with families lead to the best outcomes for children. We provide tools, resources, and open communication to keep you informed and involved every step of the way.

What We Offer:

ASQ-3 Developmental Screening – A research-based tool to track milestones and identify areas where extra support may help.
Creative Curriculum – Our play-based, research-backed curriculum designed to nurture curiosity and a love of learning.
Brightwheel App – Daily updates, photos, and direct messaging so you can share in your child’s day, wherever you are.
Diapers & Wipes Provided – We supply fresh, high-quality diapers and wipes for all enrolled children, ensuring comfort, convenience, and one less thing for families to pack each day.

Our Classroom Pets

Our Parent Resources and Technology

Tykes Academy is also home to dogs and cats. All of our animals are fully vaccinated and cared for in compliance with Kentucky state childcare regulations. While our pets are kept separate from the children and designated play areas for safety, we occasionally incorporate supervised, structured interactions into our curriculum.

These moments provide rich learning opportunities, supporting children’s social-emotional development, empathy, and sensory exploration. From observing animal behaviors to gentle petting experiences, children can build compassion, confidence, and curiosity in a safe and guided setting.

Licensed Early Learning with the Warmth of Home

The Warmth of Home. The Standards of a School.

Welcome to Tykes Academy

Discover What Parents Are Saying

Childcare Types Explained

Babysitter

Unregulated In Home Childcare

Registered Provider

Registered Provider

Unregulated In Home Childcare

Registered Provider

Unregulated In Home Childcare

Unregulated In Home Childcare

Unregulated In Home Childcare

Certified In Home Childcare

Licensed Type II Child Care Home

Unregulated In Home Childcare

Licensed Type II Child Care Home

Licensed Type II Child Care Home

Licensed Type II Child Care Home

Type I Childcare Center

Licensed Type II Child Care Home

Licensed Type II Child Care Home

The Tykes Academy Advantage: Licensed, Nurturing, and Unique

We Accept CCAP

Structure That Feels Like Play

Structure That Feels Like Play

Structure That Feels Like Play

Structure That Feels Like Play

Structure That Feels Like Play

Healthy Meals & Snacks

Structure That Feels Like Play

Healthy Meals & Snacks

Our Teachers

Our Parent Resources and Technology

Healthy Meals & Snacks

Our Parent Resources and Technology

Our Parent Resources and Technology

Our Parent Resources and Technology

Our Classroom Pets

Our Parent Resources and Technology

Our Parent Resources and Technology

Family Resource Guide

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