Our Story
From one mom's kitchen table to three locations serving Fort Wayne families
26 Years and Counting
Apple Jacks Daycare started the way the best things do — at home. When Austin Krider was born, his mother AJ made a decision: she wanted to stay home with her son. So she opened a childcare business right out of her house. That decision launched what would become one of Fort Wayne's longest-running in-home daycares.
In 2021, Austin officially took over the business his mother built. Armed with a business degree from Siena Heights University and a lifetime of watching what great childcare looks like, Austin has kept the heart of Apple Jacks intact while making meaningful improvements along the way.
Today, Apple Jacks operates three in-home locations in Fort Wayne — each one dedicated to a specific age group with its own head teacher. We serve children from 6 weeks to 6 years old, and after more than two decades, we're still driven by the same belief that started it all: every child deserves a second home where they're loved, safe, and growing every day.
What We Believe
At Apple Jacks, we believe that consistency is the most important ingredient in a child's growth. We provide structured, play-based learning that prepares children for the next stage of their lives — while always keeping their best interest at the center of everything we do.
Family First
We look at each child not as a number, but as part of our family. We build relationships not just with children, but with their entire families.
Honest Communication
We tell you the good, the bad, and everything in between. Transparency isn't a policy here — it's who we are.
Consistency
Our schedules are followed to the minute. Children thrive on predictability, and we've seen 26 years of proof.
Growth Through Play
We prepare children for school and life through hands-on, experiential learning — because the best lessons happen when kids are having fun.
Safety Above All
Licensed facilities, certified staff, background checks, daily cleaning — we never cut corners when it comes to your child's wellbeing.
Years of Trusted Care
Dedicated Locations
Children Max Per Location
Staff CPR Certified & Background-Checked