Little Bulldogs Learning Center is set to open in early 2025 at 211 Veterans Highway, Columbus Grove.
David Trinko | The Lima News
COLUMBUS GROVE — For nearly 35 years, Keith and Lisa Alt have been committed to enhancing childcare options for families in their communities.
In response to the growing demand for childcare, the Alts announced their plans for a third facility, Little Bulldogs Learning Center, set to open in Columbus Grove in early 2025. This learning center will be located at 211 Veterans Highway, in a 2013 building that previously served as a funeral home.
This new center will be licensed for approximately 100 children.
“It’s a huge need for the community,” Keith Alt said. “We have seen a huge waiting list at our Ottawa location, and we know that need extends to other rural areas across Ohio.”
This increased demand was the motivation for an additional location.
The couple already owns Loving Care Learning Center, 360 N. Locust St., Ottawa, which accommodates 160 children, and the recently opened Little Panthers Learning Center, 321 Park Dr., McComb, which is licensed for 84 kids.
Getting children prepared for the kindergarten level is something the Alts strive to do.
“We’ve seen the level of education needs at the pre-kindergarten level before the kids get to kindergarten increase every year,” Keith Alt said.
Separating children by age helps the focus be on reaching outcomes.
Communicating with the parents of the children to discuss various aspects is what keeps the business running smoothly.
According to Keith Alt, 96% of the parents who bring their infants to the program will keep them there through kindergarten.
“Communication is very important daily with parents,” Lisa Alt said.
When a parent is interested, the Alts and their staff take them on a tour to show where their child will be, what the curriculum will be, the ratio of faculty-to- child (which averages 10 to one) and to ensure that the facility is secure and provides a safe environment.
Partnering with companies and various businesses is important to Keith Alt.
“If parents have child care available to them, and they don’t have to leave work for a sick child, and it helps companies with job retention, employee turnover and overall production,” he said.
Like many businesses, the Alts faced challenges in hiring and retaining staff post-COVID. They said they’re dedicated to enhancing employee benefits and updating compensation plans to attract and keep quality staff members.
“Updating the compensation package is something we’re trying to do,” Keith Alt said.
Lisa Alt added, “It’s exciting for us to go to Grove and do this for their community.”
Reach Cade Higgins at 567-242-0351
