New Louisville childcare center opens with STEM-focused learning programs

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) — After years of planning and nearly two years of renovations, a new childcare center opened in Louisville with a focus on education, development and community support.

Malone Development Center officially celebrated the grand opening of its new facility on Saturday, welcoming families, community members and local leaders to tour the center and learn about its programs.

Owners Michael Malone and his wife, Aaliyah Kirby-Malone, said opening the center has been a long-term dream for their family.

"This was a process that on paper we’ve been thinking and talking about for over 10 years," Malone said. "This is something that means everything to us."

Malone said the building at 6718 Six Mile Lane underwent nearly two years of renovations before it was ready to serve families.

The center will care for children ranging from six weeks old to eight years old.

Malone Development Center plans to use a STEM-focused approach, emphasizing science, technology, engineering and math through hands-on activities like robotics and drones. The center is also partnering with Kentucky State University to expand programming and introduce agricultural education as part of a STEAM curriculum.

Malone said introducing children to new opportunities and experiences is one of the center’s biggest goals.

"We want to show children that they can do anything they put their minds to," Malone said.

He added that the center hopes to give parents peace of mind by creating a safe and supportive environment where children can grow academically and socially.

"We want every single family to be able to experience childcare as it should be," Malone said.

Malone Development Center is now Monday through Friday from 7 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.