About Programs Environment Contact Call (231) 885-1007

Welcome to

Hello, beautiful family.
We're so glad you found us.

At Tender Hands Child Development Center, every child is greeted with warmth, curiosity, and the patience they deserve. We're more than a childcare center — we're a second home in Mesick, where little ones grow into confident, kind, and curious individuals.

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Licensed & Certified
Compassionate Care
Early Learning Focus
Happy children learning and playing at Tender Hands Child Development Center

About Us

A place where your child's imagination can bloom

Founded with a simple belief — that young children thrive when they feel safe, valued, and endlessly curious — Tender Hands Child Development Center has been a cornerstone of early learning in Mesick for years.

Our team of dedicated caregivers understands that every child arrives with their own personality, pace, and potential. We don't rush development. Instead, we create spaces — both physical and emotional — where a toddler can confidently take first steps, where a preschooler can lose themselves in a story, and where a school-age child can discover what makes them light up.

Small Groups, Real Attention

Low child-to-caregiver ratios mean your child is known — not just managed.

Play-Based Learning

We follow research showing that guided play builds the strongest foundations for literacy, numeracy, and social skills.

Community Rooted

We're neighbors. Our families are the families of Mesick, and we take that responsibility to heart.

Warm classroom environment at Tender Hands Child Development Center

Our Programs

Growth at every stage

From their very first days away from home through the years before kindergarten, we meet your child where they are — and gently guide them forward.

01

Toddler Program

Ages 1 – 3

A gentle, nurturing environment where toddlers explore, sensory-play, and build early language skills at their own rhythm. Diaper changes, meals, and naps are handled with patience and care.

02

Preschool Program

Ages 3 – 5

Structured yet playful learning that builds readiness for kindergarten — pre-literacy, early math, social-emotional growth, and creative expression through art, music, and outdoor exploration.

03

Before & After School

Ages 5 – 12

A welcoming extension of the school day — homework support, snacks, free play, and supervised outdoor time. A calm, consistent space while you're at work.

04

Summer Enrichment

Ages 3 – 12

Outdoor adventures, themed learning weeks, field trips around Emmet County, and creative projects that keep young minds engaged through the warmer months.

Bright, clean classroom at Tender Hands Child Development Center
Children engaging in learning activities
Outdoor play area for children

Our Environment

Designed for little explorers

Every corner of our center is intentional. Shelves at child height, soft lighting, natural materials, and learning centers that invite discovery — we've thoughtfully arranged our spaces so children can move independently, focus deeply, and feel at ease.

Our outdoor area is fenced and shaded, with space for running, gardening, sensory bins, and quiet reading nooks under the trees. Because we believe the best learning often happens when a child is barefoot in the grass.

Fully licensed facility
Secure, fenced outdoor space
Nutritious meals & snacks provided
CCTV safety monitoring

From Our Families

Words that matter

"Our daughter went from crying at drop-off to running through the door every morning. That shift didn't happen overnight — it happened because the caregivers here truly see her as an individual. We couldn't be more grateful."

— A Parent in Mesick

"As a first-time parent, I was anxious about finding the right fit. Tender Hands made the transition so smooth — they communicated with us daily, celebrated every milestone, and treated our son like he was theirs."

— A Parent in Mesick

"The before-school program has been a lifesaver for our family. My kids get a healthy snack, do their homework, and actually look forward to going. That says everything about the culture here."

— A Parent in Mesick

Ready to Get Started?

Your child's next chapter starts with a conversation.

We'd love to show you around, answer your questions, and help you find the right program for your family. Call us or stop by — no pressure, just a friendly chat.

Call (231) 885-1007 Send a Message

Contact Us

We'd love to hear from you

Whether you're looking for full-time care, after-school support, or just want to learn more about our approach — reach out. We respond to every inquiry personally.

Visit Us

6086 W M-115 Hwy
Mesick, MI 49668-8924

Call Us

(231) 885-1007

Hours

Monday – Friday
6:30 AM – 6:00 PM

Send Us a Message

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