Children’s Creative Playday Preschool Celebrates 50 Years

Children’s Creative Playday Preschool, a ministry of First United Methodist Church of Allen, is celebrating 50 years of nurturing children through play-based education.

Founded in 1975 as a once-a-week program for preschoolers, Playday has grown into a thriving school serving 132 children with more than 30 staff members. Over the decades, it has become a trusted name in early childhood education, blending fun and learning in ways that have shaped generations.

The curriculum emphasizes discovery, creativity and social development. Programs today include transitional kindergarten, private kindergarten, yoga, music, Spanish, chapel, outdoor learning and STEAM, preparing children not only academically but socially and spiritually.

On Sept. 28, alumni families, former staff and community friends gathered for a 50th anniversary celebration. The day began with worship at First UMC Allen, followed by a reception and luncheon where memories were shared.

“The event was a huge success and a great reunion of past staff, directors, board members, students and families,” said Director Trish Morehead. “Dawn Horton, a 1980 Playday graduate, was the head of the event design team. The very first teacher of Playday, Betty Mathews, was another honored guest. Having served 28 years before retiring, former teacher and director Maureen Bowman received recognition for being the staff member with the longest tenure at Playday. We are so honored to be a part of this amazing legacy of love and learning.”

From its earliest days to its golden anniversary, Playday has been more than a preschool. It has been a place where children discover the joy of learning, families find community and faith and education come together.