About TLC Center

Established in 1985, TLC Center is proud to provide safe, nurturing, and educational childcare services in Great Falls, Montana. With a longstanding commitment to excellence, we strive to support the unique needs of every child and family we serve.

Our Facilities

TLC Center operates two licensed and registered childcare facilities:

• TLC Center BLC
  Located in the Bethel Lutheran Church, this one-level, handicap-accessible building features five age-based classrooms, a large indoor gym, and two fenced outdoor playgrounds.
  ⭐ Star Four Quality Rated

• TLC Center GFC
  Situated on the Great Falls College campus, this location offers six classrooms, spacious common areas, and three fenced playgrounds, each with direct access from classrooms.
  ⭐ Star Four Quality Rated

Both centers are Stars to Quality participants, Early Head Start collaborative sites, and part of the Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP), providing nutritious meals and snacks daily. We proudly accept Best Beginnings Scholarships and Childcare Aware subsidies for military families.

Our Team

At TLC Center, we are guided by a passionate, experienced leadership team:

• Elizabeth Olson, Owner/Manager
  Over 25 years of experience in childcare and a certified CPR & First Aid Instructor.

• Crystal Kist, Senior Director of Operations
  19 years in Early Childhood Education, holding a Bachelor's degree in the field, Dual CDAs, Director Level II credential, and multiple specialist certifications.

• Madison Ameline, Director – Bethel Lutheran Location
  Holds an Associate’s Degree in Early Childhood Education with 12 years of childcare experience.

• Alexandra Albert, Director – Great Falls College Location
  Holds an Associate’s Degree in Early Childhood Education and continues the family legacy as the granddaughter of our founder, Debra Blank.

• Tamara Garland, Assistant Director - Great Falls College Location. Holds an Associate’s Degree in Early Childhood Education

Visit our Our Staff page for a complete list of our dedicated team members.

Our Programs & Services

We are open Monday through Friday, 7:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m., and licensed to care for up to 140 children, from newborn to 12 years old. We offer:

• Full-time and part-time care

• Preschool programs

• Flexible scheduling for working families

• Nutritious meals and snacks

Fees are based on the child’s age and attendance schedule. Learn more on our Fees & Registration page.

Our Commitment to Quality

All TLC Center staff are CPR and First Aid certified and complete required training, including:

• Together We Grow – 3 hours

• Infant Safety Essentials – 2 hours

• New Staff Health & Safety Orientation – 6 hours

• Early Childhood Essentials – 3 hours

Our Mission

To provide high-quality early childhood care and education that meets the individual needs of each child and family in a safe, developmentally appropriate, educational, and fun environment.

We encourage children to be independent thinkers and lifelong learners.

Our Vision

To be a leader in the childcare community by offering exceptional early education and a supportive environment where children can thrive alongside inspired teachers and peers.

Our Philosophy

We believe that children grow best in a loving, responsive, and engaging atmosphere. At TLC Center:

• Every child is seen as a unique individual.

• We balance structured learning with free play to foster creativity and curiosity.

• We provide clear boundaries and supportive guidance to help children thrive.

• Consistency and flexibility are key in meeting each child’s needs.

• Our goal is to nurture happy, secure, and confident children who are ready to explore the world.

Non-Discrimination Statement

TLC Center is an equal opportunity provider, participating in USDA-funded programs. We do not discriminate based on race, color, national origin, sex, disability, age, or prior civil rights activity. For assistance or to file a complaint, click here or contact the USDA directly.

In accordance with Federal civil rights law and U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) civil rights regulations and policies, the USDA, its Agencies, offices, employees, and institutions participating in or administering USDA programs are prohibited from discriminating based on race, color, national origin, sex, disability, age, or reprisal or retaliation for prior civil rights activity in any program or activity conducted or funded by USDA.

Persons with disabilities who require alternative means of communication for program information (e.g. Braille, large print, audiotape, American Sign Language, etc.), should contact the Agency (State or local) where they applied for benefits.  Individuals who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have speech disabilities may contact USDA through the Federal Relay Service at (800) 877-8339.  Additionally, program information may be made available in languages other than English.

To file a program complaint of discrimination, complete the USDA Program Discrimination Complaint Form, (AD-3027) found online at: How to File a Complaint, and at any USDA office, or write a letter addressed to USDA and provide in the letter all of the information requested in the form. To request a copy of the complaint form, call (866) 632-9992. Submit your completed form or letter to USDA by:

1. mail: U.S. Department of Agriculture
   Office of the Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights
   1400 Independence Avenue, SW
   Washington, D.C. 20250-9410;
2. fax: (202) 690-7442; or
3. email: program.intake@usda.gov.

This institution is an equal opportunity provider.