MAKING AN IMPACT Through Faith-based Education

Living Word Church "Little Steps" Pre-K and After School Care

by Charlotte Kovalchuk • photos courtesy Little Steps

Among the large number of families relocating to Jarrell in the past few years, Pastor Joe Stephens noted a recurring concern — the desperate need for reliable childcare. Fortunately, creating a faith-based early childhood learning program and preschool was one of his community outreach goals when he began pastoring Living Word Church in 2019. “The city is growing so quickly. We can’t build schools or facilities quickly enough. While Jarrell may be a wonderful town that attracts many, there are still certain needs yet to be filled.”

I was new to Jarrell when Little Steps opened and I was happy to put my niece in a place she would be involved with God. I wanted her to grow up in a God-centered environment but beyond that, I have never experienced the level of commitment the Stephens have to the children in their care. Despite my busy life at an understaffed clinic, the child care staff have been incredibly supportive. They are willing to pick up my niece from school and stay with her when I'm running late due to patients. Their dedication is remarkable; they involve her in festivals, provide outfits, and even assist with homework. This care program goes beyond a job, creating a special bond with the children. I'm grateful for their help and the love they show my family. As well, the facility is well-prepared with meals and snacks, and they accommodate personal preferences. They genuinely care for my little one, giving me peace of mind every day about her well-being. ~Aunt Terri

Little Steps was the first place I visited when I moved to Jarrell. The pastor and his family met me with smiles and my daughter started playing with the other children without hesitation or asking me to stay nearby. As the weeks went on, her favorite thing was to see the “puppy” (sign at the entrance) when we arrived. It is a warm feeling to know she is somewhere safe where she is loved on and surrounded by people who know and teach God’s Word. As I did with my older children, when I find the right place and my kids are comfortable, I’m never leaving! ~ Regina

Bridging The Gap

Pastor Joe has created an early childhood development program to prepare 3- and 4-year-olds for kindergarten. A family-run endeavor, Little Steps Pre-K is taught by his wife and daughter and is open to 3- and 4-yearolds in Jarrell and surrounding areas.

Little Steps Pre-K offers a safe, loving, and nurturing Christian environment where children can safely engage in hands-on learning experiences that will be the building blocks for future academic success. Pastor Joe says, “Our program operates on the premise that children learn most effectively when they actively participate in the learning process and are provided with opportunities to exercise independence, cooperation, and problem-solving skills. As such, we offer a holistic approach to child development, emphasizing growth in all areas — emotional, social, cognitive, physical, and spiritual.”

Nurturing Little Hearts

Even beyond offering a safe and encouraging environment where children can learn and grow, the church’s programs also promote socialization and help children develop valuable communication and interpersonal skills. Children are exposed to structured learning environments that emphasize cognitive and intellectual development, as well as physical activities that promote gross and fine motor skill development. In addition, these programs can help children build independence and confidence, as they are encouraged to engage in activities and problem-solving exercises that challenge them to think creatively and act independently.

Finally, their program offers working parents a valuable solution for childcare, allowing them to focus on their careers and other responsibilities, knowing their children are enjoying the benefits of structured learning and socialization in a safe and secure environment.

By being based at the church, Little Steps also enjoys greater flexibility than other preschools that must lease or purchase a dedicated facility. “We’re a little more flexible because we already have the building,” Pastor Joe says, adding that this enables Little Steps to be more affordable than other programs and preschools. Moreover, smaller groups foster a more personalized, one-on-one experience. Plus — one more reason for busy parents to rejoice — Jarrell’s Love at First Bite bakery will offer catering services, making it easier for them to take a break from packing lunches.

Community Activities

Living Word Church also addresses another gap, Pastor Joe says, which is the need for community activities. “Some parents say there aren’t many family-type things to do here,” he says. Although attending Living Word Church is not a requirement for enrollment in Little Steps, families are always welcome to participate in the year-round church activities. The family-friendly calendar includes puppet shows, Easter egg hunts, plays, and Christmas programs, and the fall season also promises to be filled with exciting activities. Last year’s Family Fun Days will return and may include anything from petting zoos to inflatable castles, games, police cars, and fire trucks. With so much to look forward to, Jarrell families can make the most of their school year and create cherished memories together.

are they communicate with and send me pictures every day on the app. My two children are not just learning, they are getting faith-based instruc- tion. It means the world to me that the pastor offers free counseling and has helped my daughter adapt her behavior and make good choices. He also encourages her to continue her good behavior at home. It is clear, and a blessing, that they genuinely care about kids! ~Maira

I love Little Steps because the teacher-student ratio is small and I know my kids are being cared for. I love how patient the teachers are — they communicate with and send me pictures every day on the app. My two children are not just learning they are getting faith-based instruction. It means the world to me that the pastor offers free counseling and has helped my daughter adapt her behavior and make good choices. He also encourages her to continue her good behavior at home. It is clear, and a blessing, that they genuinely care about kids! ~Maira

LITTLE STEPS PRE-K is located at 301 W Ave H, in Jarrell. Visit the website to learn more and to register for Little Steps Pre-K and daycare.