A New Dawn for Child Care: Bend Welcomes The Orchard Infant Nest

In a significant step towards improving early childhood education, Sprouts Montessori of Bend has received a remarkable $719,200 property acquisition grant aimed at establishing a new licensed child care facility for infants and toddlers. This funding, made possible through the Child Care Infrastructure Fund managed by Business Oregon, represents a critical investment in the community's future and the well-being of its youngest residents.

Transforming Early Childhood Education

The grant will facilitate the opening of The Orchard Infant Nest on Northeast Revere Avenue, designed to accommodate 24 infants and toddlers aged between 6 weeks and 24 months. With a focus on creating a nurturing environment, the project includes essential features such as a fenced infant play area and minor renovations to ensure safety and comfort for the children.

Community Support and Nutritional Commitment

Sharon Richardson, the owner of Sprouts Montessori, expressed her profound gratitude for the state support, emphasizing the importance of expanding educational services for infants and toddlers. "We are honored to have been chosen to receive this extraordinary support," she stated, highlighting the school's commitment to high-quality nutrition as an integral part of the program. The Orchard Infant Nest plans to provide three meals and two snacks daily, underscoring the importance of healthy eating habits from an early age.

A Unique Learning Experience

The new facility will operate as a Spanish immersion program, providing families with an alternative educational environment that enriches cultural learning while accommodating flexible part-time and full-time schedules. Operating hours from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. are tailored to meet the diverse needs of Central Oregon families, making quality child care accessible for all.

The Orchard Infant Nest is set to open later this spring, marking a transformative moment for parents seeking quality early childhood education in Bend. For further information and tentative rates, interested families can visit the Montessori website or contact the institution directly.