Enrollment Opens as the Climbing Tree Celebrates 25 Years of Serving the Woodlands

THE WOODLANDS, TX -- The Climbing Tree at Christ Church Methodist is celebrating 25 years of faith-based early childhood ministry and announcing a unified brand expansion as enrollment opens for the 2026–2027 school year.

Founded in 2001 to serve working families in The Woodlands, The Climbing Tree began as more than a child care program — it was created as a ministry to support families during some of the most formative years of a child’s life. In 2005, when the program faced closure at its original location, families and staff worked tirelessly to preserve it. Through perseverance, prayer, and the support of church leadership, The Climbing Tree found a new home at Christ Church Methodist, where it has continued to serve young families for the past 23 years.

At the time of that relocation, Christ Church Methodist already had an established preschool ministry that had been nurturing children in faith for five years. That traditional preschool ministry will celebrate 30 years of service to the community this year.

In 2005, then–Associate Pastor Rev. Vivian Kinnear affirmed the church’s commitment to welcome the ministry. “We were presented a need,” Kinnear said at the time. “At first it was about us not being able to say no, but we finally concluded it was God’s will and said yes. Now the church is alive with the sound of children.”

Beginning in March 2026, both programs will operate under one unified name: The Climbing Tree. Previously known separately as Christ Church Preschool (traditional school-year program) and The Climbing Tree (full-day program), the ministries have always shared a unified educational philosophy and license. The primary difference has simply been the schedule.

“This rebrand brings clarity to who we are as one ministry,” said Laura Hickey, Program Director. “Whether families choose our traditional school-day hours or our full-day, year-round option, children experience the same Christ-centered foundation, the same developmentally appropriate hands-on learning, and the same intentional focus on faith formation and character development. Our heart has always been to partner with parents as they guide their children spiritually and academically.”

The Traditional School Day Program serves children ages 18 months through Private Kindergarten and follows the Conroe ISD academic calendar, operating from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., with optional before and after care available from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. The Full-Day Program serves children ages 6 weeks through Private Kindergarten and
operates year-round from 6:30 a.m. to 6:15 p.m., supporting families who work full-time while still desiring a faith-filled learning environment.

Both pathways offer Transitional Kindergarten and Private Kindergarten, providing strong preparation for first grade within a nurturing Christian community. In addition, The Climbing Tree offers a summer camp program for children who have completed Kindergarten through 4th grade.

Across both schedule options, students benefit from:

• Developmentally appropriate, hands-on learning
• Weekly chapel and intentional faith formation
• Spanish lessons and Music & Movement class
• Enrichment opportunities
• Low student-to-teacher ratios
• Classroom cameras for parent peace of mind
• A secure campus with on-site safety presence

The Climbing Tree’s approach emphasizes play-based exploration, critical thinking, and character development — cultivating children who are confident, curious, and grounded in faith.

Rev. Heather Sims, Senior Pastor of Christ Church Methodist, shared, 'Our campus is more than just a school; it is a community where children are truly known and deeply loved. We believe these early years are sacred, and nurturing children as they grow academically, socially, and spiritually is a core part of our mission. By prioritizing our
youngest learners, we are living out our commitment to love and serve our neighbors. We are honored to provide a space where faith and learning go hand-in-hand, ensuring every child knows they are a valued part of God’s story.”

“As we celebrate 25 years, our focus is gratitude and continued ministry,” Hickey added. “We are thankful for the generations of families who have entrusted us with their children, and we remain committed to creating an environment where young hearts grow in faith, confidence, and readiness for what comes next.”

Enrollment for the 2026–2027 school year is now open. Families are encouraged to schedule a tour to learn more about both schedule pathways and availability.

For more information or to schedule a visit:

www.theclimbingtreeschool.org
Laura Hickey, Program Director
lhickey@cctw.org
936-273-2230