In 2023, Early Learning Indiana ranked Carroll County 91st out of 92 Indiana counties for access to licensed childcare.

That shortage creates ripple effects across the community: children miss critical early-learning windows, families face impossible tradeoffs, and employers struggle to hire and retain workers.

Why Early Childhood Matters

Investing in early learning is one of the strongest ways a community can improve long-term outcomes:

• High-quality early childhood programs generate long-term returns—including improved education, health, and economic stability over time.

• Children who enter school ready to learn are more likely to stay on track academically, reducing the need for later interventions and support.

• Reliable child care strengthens workforce participation, helping local businesses and families stay stable.

More Than Child Care

Childrens Garden exists to serve children and families, but our nonprofit mission goes further. We’re working to strengthen Carroll County’s early learning ecosystem by supporting the people and systems that make quality care possible:

• Teacher growth + career development
  We invest in professional advancement for early childhood educators through training, mentorship, and ongoing support—because strong teachers build strong classrooms.

• Pathways for local students
  We create opportunities for high school students exploring careers in childcare and education, helping develop the next generation of early learning professionals close to home.

• Intergenerational community infrastructure
  We build meaningful ways for adults of all ages to participate through volunteering, mentorship, and hands-on support that strengthens relationships across generations.