A New Chapter Begins for Kids Clubhouse

After almost two decades of laughter, learning, and love, Kids Clubhouse—the beloved neighborhood daycare nestled in the heart of our community—is beginning a new chapter. As of July, the center will be under new ownership, carrying forward the same spirit that has made it a second home to so many families.
Built and lovingly operated by Vickie Renderman since September 1, 2007, Kids Clubhouse has been more than just a daycare—it’s been a place where children have taken their first steps, made their first friends, and discovered a love for learning. “As you care for these children, you build strong bonds that will stay with you forever,” said Vickie, who is stepping down to travel, spend more time with family, and take time to finally focus on herself.
Vickie has a long history of making an impact on families in our community, working in childcare for a total of 38 years. She took a “leap of faith,” when she opened her first childcare center, Garden of Eden Childcare, in the town of Eden in 1990. It wasn’t until 1993 that she would open her second center, kiddie-corner to the gas station here in town, under the name “Kids Clubhouse.” She ran both of these centers until the time came, four years later, that she decided to concentrate on running just the one high quality center here in Campbellsport. Vickie ran her small business right there in the center of town until 2007 when the KCH building that we all know and love was built.
The new owner, Kayla Christus, brings 19+ years of experience in early childhood education and a heart full of enthusiasm. Not only does Kayla have a Bachelor of Science in Early Childhood/Elementary Education, but she also has a long history at Kids Clubhouse itself. August of 2011, she started at KCH as the assistant director. In these last almost 14 years, she has worked in every classroom, providing top tier care on top of her assistant director duties. “I’m honored to continue the legacy built here,” she stated when asked about the exciting changes. “The goal is to preserve everything parents and kids have come to love, while bringing a few fresh ideas to help the center grow.”
While change can be bittersweet, the transition is being handled with care and collaboration to ensure families feel supported every step of the way. Curious as to what a childcare career has taught these women, I asked them just that. Though they both had an endless list of life lessons and fun stories, there was one theme that they both stuck with that stood out to me: “Life is just more fun through a child’s perspective! Embrace your inner 5 year old, and try to remember to enjoy all of the little things!”
I’d like to end this article by saying, “Thank you,” on behalf of myself, the community, and all of the families (past, present, and future) here at Kids Clubhouse. As an employee of Vickie’s, and now Kayla’s, for the past three years, I can personally attest to the fact that while we are extremely sad to see Vickie go, there is no better person to take the reins than Kayla. The crayons may change colors, but the heart of Kids Clubhouse remains the same: a place where childhood is celebrated, nurtured, and cherished—one tiny hand at a time. Happy retirement, Miss Vickie… and congratulations Miss Kayla!