A new childcare center, accepting infants, toddlers, and providing after-school care through age 12, is opening at Triangle Station in Germantown in a facility that previously housed other daycare businesses.

Cardinal Academy will be opening Tuesday, February 17, pending its final license approval by the State of Ohio. A number of families with infants and toddlers have already registered, says owner Jane Ellefson.

Ellefson runs a similar facility in Centerville. “I love the hometown feeling of Germantown,” she said of her decision to expand. “I see the need for infant and toddler care in this community, and we’re the first to offer that in a daycare setting.”

Cardinal Academy will offer care for infants, toddlers, pre-school students, after-school care, and drop-in care that can be used as a backup for parents.

Ellefson says the facility has capacity for 70-75 children and can expand. “This is phase one,” she noted. “We have capacity to move into additional space in this building, depending on need.”

This summer, they will offer two programs for children. One with “in-house field trips” that include performers and hands-on educational programs, all brought to the facility. A second program will include transportation to splash pads, the zoo, hiking and more. Registration for the summer camps begins in April and prioritizes children already part of the Cardinal Academy program.

Teachers at Cardinal Academy will have Child Development Associate (CDA) credentials, or bachelor’s or associate degrees. Ellefson says they offer year-round enrichment activities like yoga and kinder music.

Cardinal Academy includes open space that serves as an indoor playground and gym. An outdoor playground (currently snow covered) is also available.

“We accept inclusion children,” Ellefson said. “We are very accepting and welcoming of diversity.”

Ellefson is looking forward to welcoming new families to the facility. “We will have new window clings across the front with our branding that will also protect the privacy of the children—we just have to get some weather above 40 degrees so we can install it.”

“I love to teach and educate,” Ellefson said. “Our facility is privately owned, a small business, and I have 30 years of experience in this industry.”

To register and learn more, visit the Cardinal Academy website.

© 2026 Twin Creek Times