In 1964, Michael and Lucy Morrelli founded the first Children’s Classic Childcare Center inOgden, then called Children’s World. The center became very popular and grew to a maximum capacity of 30 children and a long waiting list. In 1965, a new center was constructed next door with a capacity of 100 children; by 1968, they increased capacity to 200 children. The popularity of the centers is clear as evidenced by the growth they have experienced over the years.
Lucy was honored with several state and national awards for her work and innovations in group childcare centers. The center was one of the first group child care centers, not only in Utah, but in the nation. She was a vibrant teacher and lifelong student of becoming the best teacher she could be. She loved one unique style of teaching called Threshold to Music. She incorporated different music styles and instruments into her lessons, which children loved.
Lucy’s inspiring example was contagious, and her daughter Shauna Kendell began working at the center in 1979. Now for over 25 years, Shauna has been the administrator of the Children’s Classic centers in Ogden and has led them to even more prosperity and skill at caring for children. Today, they embrace the name“Classic” with tried and true methods of caring for and teaching children, while also offering the most advanced care options available in today’s market. Their facilities offer security-protected entrances and cameras in all classrooms. They also provide nutritious meals and snacks daily for the best developmental growth of each child.
Having been in business for over 50 years, Children’s Classic Child Care Centers have served children for over three generations. In fact, many of the children they have cared for have grown and are now bringing their children to one of two local centers. Kara Eddington, director of the Ogden center, attended Children’s Classic and later started her career in1991.
A recent addition to their childcare program is a customized parent app which gives parents the opportunity to check in on their young students throughout the day. This app creates a way for busy parents to quickly check on their child conveniently on their smartphone. This also gives the center the chance to engage parents in the development and learning of their child.
The centers currently offer childcare for infants through grade school-aged children as well as a preschool program and a full-day kindergarten. Transportation is offered to and from nearby schools to help children get to the centers easily. The centers are multi-faceted, offering activities such as art, music, stem curriculum, phonics and reading, science, and small and large motor development.
Shauna has led the organization to many more national and local awards, including the following: HighQuality Classroom, Top Star Level 3, and Healthier CACFP for their nutrition programs. They have two locations in Ogden: one off of 9th street, and the other in South Ogden off of Wasatch Drive. The centers have very stable staff with 20 employees that have been at the centers for 10-30 years.
The joy that is expressed by Shauna for the work they accomplish and the children they are able to impact is inspiring. As PresidentHerbert Hoover once said,“Children are our most valuable resource!” That is why they need a place like Children’s Classic to care for them.