The Nest Child Development Center @ BELIEVE

Nurture. Learn. Soar.

Program Type
Family Child Care
License Number
000000000

Basics

Background Check
Yes
Meals
Breakfast and Lunch
Snacks
1 per day
Potty Training
Not Required
Language(s) Supported
English
Ratio
1:8 teachers to children
Pay Schedules
Monthly
Subsidized Care
Accepted
Philosophy
Montessori-inspired

Our Teachers

As a former school principal, I’ve had the privilege of nurturing young minds and fostering their development in a safe and supportive environment. Alongside dedicated staff, including a licensed professional counselor, we’ve formed a cohesive team committed to the well-being and growth of every child in our care. Whether through structured educational activities or emotional support, our collective experience allows us to effectively address challenges that arise, whether academic, behavioral, or emotional, ensuring that every child receives the attention and guidance they require to thrive. Together, we strive to instill a love for learning, resilience, and compassion in the children we serve, laying the foundation for their future success.

Testimonials

“Tanesia’s dedication to our child’s education has been truly remarkable. With her patient guidance and innovative methods, our child has not only excelled academically but has also developed a newfound confidence in their abilities.”

“We are incredibly grateful for Tanesia’s personalized approach. She takes the time to understand our child’s unique learning style and tailors her care accordingly, ensuring that they stay engaged and motivated to learn.”

“Tanesia’s passion for nurturing young minds is evident in her every interaction with our child. Her unwavering support and encouragement have fostered a love for learning in our child, and we couldn’t be happier with the progress they’ve made under her guidance.”

Philosophy

At The Nest Child Development Center, we want parents to know that our program is built on a balance of nurturing care and purposeful learning. We believe children thrive in an environment where they feel safe, supported, and encouraged to explore.

Our approach blends a structured, age-appropriate curriculum with play-based learning experiences that promote creativity, independence, and social-emotional growth. We focus on the whole child—supporting cognitive development, communication skills, and positive relationships.

Our core values center on kindness, curiosity, respect, and confidence. We strive to create a warm, inclusive community where every child feels valued and every family feels connected. At The Nest, we’re not just preparing children for school—we’re helping them build a strong foundation for life.

Location

The Nest Child Development Center is located in Midtown St. Louis, a vibrant and centrally located area that offers families strong access to education, employment, and community resources. Our center is situated inside BELIEVE Middle College and is just steps away from Harris-Stowe State University and major employers like Wells Fargo, creating a dynamic environment rooted in opportunity and growth.

Our location is ideal for families who want convenience and connection. We are near several well-established neighborhoods, including Midtown, Downtown West, and Grand Center, and are just minutes from cultural institutions, libraries, and family-friendly spaces.

For outdoor play and enrichment, we are a short drive from Forest Park, one of the largest urban parks in the country, offering green space, playgrounds, and free attractions like the Saint Louis Zoo and Science Center.

We are also highly accessible by public transportation. Multiple MetroBus routes run along major streets like Market Street and Grand Boulevard, and nearby MetroLink stations make commuting easy for working parents and student families.

What makes our location especially great is that it sits at the intersection of education, career pathways, and community resources. Families at The Nest benefit from being part of a school-based environment while also being connected to the broader opportunities that Midtown St. Louis has to offer.

About our program

What makes The Nest Child Development Center unique is our commitment to creating a true “home away from home” where children feel secure, supported, and inspired to grow. We combine nurturing care with intentional learning, making sure each child receives individualized attention while building confidence, independence, and a love for learning.

We also believe that strong family connections are essential. Throughout the year, we host family-centered events such as seasonal celebrations, holiday parties, and special activity days that bring parents and children together. These moments help build a sense of community and allow families to be part of their child’s early learning experience.

In addition, we offer engaging enrichment opportunities such as hands-on creative activities, early literacy experiences, and social-emotional learning that supports the whole child. Our goal is to make every day meaningful, fun, and developmentally enriching.

At The Nest, it’s more than childcare—it’s a place where children and families grow together.

Have questions about the program?
Message the Program Director directly to learn more.
Program director photo
Tanesia Simmons
Program Director