Teddy Bear Daycare and Preschool announced today plans to expand its early childhood education services by opening a 4th location on the Church of the Living God (CLG) campus at 1514 Birmley Rd in Traverse City.

The new location is projected to be open in Spring 2026, through a collaborative transition of daycare management and licensing currently operated by Angel Care Preschool and Child Care. The planned transition is designed to ensure continuity of care for families, stability for staff, and long-term sustainability and growth for the program.

Angel Care has served families at the CLG location since the summer of 2025. In recent months, Angel Care’s Board of Directors proactively sought outside support to address operational challenges and invited Teddy Bear Daycare to consult. Following a thorough assessment, collaboration with CLG leadership, and guidance from the State of Michigan daycare licensing representative, all parties agreed that transitioning management and licensing to Teddy Bear is the strongest path forward.

The recommendation to transition management originated with Angel Care’s Board of Directors and is supported by CLG’s Elder and Deacon Boards. Under the proposed plan, families would continue receiving care without interruption, staff positions would be maintained, and assistance programs for low-income families would remain available, with additional support options offered by Teddy Bear.

With more than 40 years of experience, Teddy Bear brings proven leadership, strong operational systems, and a hands-on, nature-focused educational philosophy that aligns well with CLG’s 22-acre campus. The organization also has extensive experience running outdoor learning programs and summer camps.

The transition is targeted for completion by spring 2026, allowing time to meet licensing requirements while ensuring uninterrupted care. Once complete, Teddy Bear looks forward to serving families at the CLG location as part of its ongoing commitment to community partnership and high-quality early childhood education.