Our story

Little hands, big hearts, in Indianapolis.

We started with one simple belief: children flourish when they feel safe, seen, and genuinely loved—and that every family deserves a place they can trust.

A place built around community, faith, and the children of this neighborhood.

Stepping Stones is rooted in Fountain of Truth Christian Church and the belief that every child on the northeast side of Indianapolis deserves a warm, caring start.

That vision lives in every room — in the way caregivers greet each child by name, in the gentle daily rhythms, and in the real relationships built with the families we serve. Every child is known. Every family matters.

Faith-rooted Community-based Family-focused
Founder portrait
Early days photo

The values behind every day.

01

Belonging first

Every child and family is welcomed exactly as they are, no exceptions.

02

Faith in action

Christian values guide how we treat each other, every single day.

03

Whole-child care

We nurture mind, body, heart, and spirit together.

04

Slow, steady growth

We meet children where they are and move at their pace.

05

Partnership with parents

We're an extension of home, in constant conversation with families.

06

Safe, always

Rigorous standards so you can breathe easy all day long.

How we grew.

Our roots

A ministry begins

Stepping Stones grows from Fountain of Truth Christian Church's commitment to the families of the northeast side of Indianapolis.

Today

Still serving

The same warm spirit: trusted care, familiar faces, and a community that genuinely shows up for each other.

Caregivers who feel like family.

Our team brings warmth, patience, and a genuine love for the children in their care.

Owner

Kara Hardister

Owner

Loved by the families we serve.

Rated 4.5★ by 130 Indianapolis families on Google.

★★★★★

My child comes home happy every single day. The caregivers here are warm, consistent, and genuinely invested in the kids.

Parent photo
A local parent
Indianapolis family
★★★★★

We appreciate the personal attention our child receives. It feels like an extended family, not just a daycare.

Parent photo
A local parent
Indianapolis family
★★★★★

Finding a place we truly trust with our little one was so important. Stepping Stones gave us that peace of mind from day one.

Parent photo
A local parent
Indianapolis family

Want to feel the difference yourself?

The best way to know Stepping Stones is to visit. We'd love to show you around and answer your questions.

Book a tour