Daycare & Preschool in
Dublin, OH

Welcoming all

We are thrilled that you're considering our center for your child’s early learning journey. Our brand-new facility is currently under construction, & we cannot wait to open our doors to provide a nurturing & enriching environment for your little one. As the Solution for Working Families®, we are more than a daycare. We are actively enrolling for our Infant, Toddler, Preschool, & Pre-K programs & would love to share more about what makes our center a special place for learning & growth.

A Message From Us

We are Allison and Ben Kraft. Three years ago, my husband and I began exploring the idea of opening our own business, one that would give us more flexibility and allow us to be present for all of the important moments in our daughters’ lives. Being a parent is hard. Balancing a career while still wanting to show up for every recital, game, and milestone can feel overwhelming at times.

When we discovered Lightbridge Academy, it immediately felt different. We fell in love with everything they offer families. Safety and a strong curriculum were absolute non-negotiables for us, but what truly stood out was how deeply they understand the needs of working parents. The belief that it takes a community to raise a child really resonated with me. Childcare isn’t one-size-fits-all, it requires flexibility, compassion, and a true partnership with families.

Lightbridge doesn’t just talk about these values, they live them. We visited several of their centers across the country and consistently saw the highest quality of care, thoughtful programming, and genuine support for families.

We are so excited to bring Lightbridge Academy to the Dublin and Powell communities. We can’t wait to open our doors and share everything this incredible center has to offer with local families.




🌟 Meet Our Director, Miss Lani! 🌟

Hello, Dublin! My name is Lani Helms, and I am honored to be the Center Director at Lightbridge Academy of Dublin. Early childhood education has always been my calling, and I’ve had the privilege of working in nearly every role within a childcare center from classroom teaching to administration! Bringing my expertise in childcare, I hold a Child Development Associate Credential and a National Administrator Credential from National Louis University. My commitment to children and families is deeply personal; after losing my firstborn baby girl in 2016, I gained a profound understanding of the trust it takes to leave a child in someone else’s care. That’s why I lead with high standards rooted in safety, love, trust, and excellence, while also fostering a joyful and inspiring environment for both staff and children. This is also a huge part of why Lightbridge Academy means so much to me, because of our Circle of Care culture!
Outside of work, I’m a proud wife and mommy to two little boys, ages 2 and 5, who will be right alongside me at the academy! Born and raised in Ohio (Go Bucks!), I love connecting with the community, shopping, and continuing to learn new things. Fun fact: I was once a bridal makeup artist and have a bunny who might just make an appearance at the center! 🐇

Learn More!

From the first hello, to the last goodbye, we want you and your child to feel safe, nurtured and excited to learn!

Please fill out the information to the right and we will be in touch.

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Upcoming Events

Events in April 2026

Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday Sunday
March 30, 2026
March 31, 2026
April 1, 2026
April 2, 2026(1 event)

April 2, 2026

April 3, 2026(1 event)

April 3, 2026

April 4, 2026(1 event)

April 4, 2026

April 5, 2026(1 event)

April 5, 2026

April 6, 2026(1 event)

April 6, 2026

April 7, 2026(2 events)

April 7, 2026


April 7, 2026

Join us Tuesday, April 7th, for an open discussion and school tour with our Admin Team and other families! Feel free to bring your littles - We will have a craft for them too!

April 8, 2026
April 9, 2026(1 event)

April 9, 2026

April 10, 2026(1 event)

April 10, 2026

April 11, 2026(1 event)

April 11, 2026

April 12, 2026
April 13, 2026(1 event)

April 13, 2026

🍑 Ingredients

Filling:

  • 6–8 fresh peaches (peeled, sliced) (or ~4 cups canned/drained or frozen/thawed)
  • ¾ cup sugar
  • ¼ cup brown sugar
  • 1 tsp cinnamon
  • ¼ tsp nutmeg (optional)
  • 1 tsp lemon juice
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 tbsp cornstarch

Batter (topping):

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • ¼ tsp salt
  • 1 cup milk
  • ½ cup (1 stick) butter, melted

🥧 Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Prepare peaches:
    • In a bowl, mix peaches, sugars, cinnamon, nutmeg, lemon juice, vanilla, and cornstarch.
    • Pour into a greased 9×13 baking dish.
  3. Make batter:
    • In another bowl, whisk flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
    • Stir in milk until smooth.
  4. Assemble:
    • Pour melted butter evenly over the peaches.
    • Pour batter over the top (don’t stir—this creates the cobbler texture).
  5. Bake:
    • Bake for 40–45 minutes, until golden brown and bubbly.
  6. Cool slightly before serving.

🍦 Serving tip

Serve warm with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream—it’s chef’s kiss.

April 14, 2026
April 15, 2026(1 event)

April 15, 2026

🍌 Ingredients

  • 3 ripe bananas (the spottier, the better)
  • ½ cup (1 stick) melted butter
  • ¾ cup sugar (adjust to ½ cup for less sweetness)
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 tsp baking soda
  • Pinch of salt
  • 1½ cups all-purpose flour

Optional add-ins:

  • ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans
  • ½ cup chocolate chips
  • 1 tsp cinnamon

🍞 Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
  2. Mash bananas in a large bowl until smooth.
  3. Mix wet ingredients:
    • Stir in melted butter.
    • Add sugar, egg, and vanilla. Mix well.
  4. Add dry ingredients:
    • Sprinkle baking soda and salt over the mixture.
    • Stir in flour until just combined (don’t overmix).
  5. Add extras (if using), then pour batter into the loaf pan.
  6. Bake for 50–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  7. Cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a rack.

🔥 Tips for best results

  • Use very ripe bananas (almost black skins = more flavor).
  • Don’t overmix once you add flour—this keeps it soft.
  • If the top browns too fast, loosely cover with foil halfway through baking.
April 16, 2026
April 17, 2026(1 event)

April 17, 2026

April 18, 2026
April 19, 2026
April 20, 2026(1 event)

April 20, 2026

Here’s a classic pineapple upside-down cake recipe—sweet, buttery, and super nostalgic.


🍍 Pineapple Upside-Down Cake

Ingredients

Topping:

  • 1/4 cup (1/2 stick) butter
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar (packed)
  • 6–8 pineapple rings (canned or fresh)
  • Maraschino cherries (optional, for centers)

Cake batter:

  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup butter (softened)
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 1/4 cup pineapple juice (from can or fresh)
  • 1 1/2 tsp baking powder
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Prep oven & pan
    • Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
    • Melt 1/4 cup butter and pour into a 9-inch round cake pan.
    • Sprinkle brown sugar evenly over the melted butter.
  2. Arrange topping
    • Place pineapple rings on top of the sugar mixture.
    • Add a cherry in the center of each ring (optional).
  3. Make the batter
    • In a bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, and salt.
    • In another bowl, beat butter and sugar until fluffy.
    • Add eggs one at a time, then vanilla.
    • Mix in dry ingredients alternating with milk and pineapple juice.
  4. Assemble & bake
    • Pour batter over pineapple layer and smooth the top.
    • Bake for 40–45 minutes, until a toothpick comes out clean.
  5. Flip the cake
    • Let cool for 5–10 minutes, then carefully invert onto a plate.
    • Lift pan gently—your caramelized topping should be on top.

Tips

  • Don’t let it cool too long before flipping or it may stick.
  • Fresh pineapple works great, but canned gives that classic flavor.
  • Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for extra warmth.
April 21, 2026
April 22, 2026(1 event)


April 22, 2026

Reusable Bag Craft, Seed Planting, Storytime, Snacks & Fun, Meet Our Directors!

April 23, 2026(1 event)

April 23, 2026

Here’s a rich, creamy cherry cheesecake recipe with a classic graham cracker crust and a glossy cherry topping.


🍒 Cherry Cheesecake

Ingredients

Crust:

  • 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
  • 1/4 cup sugar
  • 1/2 cup (1 stick) butter, melted

Filling:

  • 3 (8 oz) blocks cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice

Topping:

  • 1 can (about 21 oz) cherry pie filling
    (or homemade cherry topping)

Instructions

1. Prep the crust

  • Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C).
  • Mix graham crumbs, sugar, and melted butter.
  • Press firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan.
  • Bake for 8–10 minutes, then let cool.

2. Make the filling

  • Beat cream cheese until smooth (no lumps).
  • Add sugar and mix well.
  • Add eggs one at a time, mixing gently (don’t overbeat).
  • Blend in sour cream, vanilla, and lemon juice until smooth.

3. Bake

  • Pour filling over crust.
  • Bake for 50–60 minutes until center is slightly jiggly.
  • Turn off oven, crack the door, and let cheesecake cool inside for 1 hour.

4. Chill

  • Refrigerate for at least 4 hours (overnight is best).

5. Add topping

  • Spoon cherry pie filling over the chilled cheesecake before serving.

Optional: Homemade Cherry Topping

  • 2 cups fresh or frozen cherries (pitted)
  • 1/2 cup sugar
  • 1 tbsp cornstarch + 2 tbsp water
  • 1 tsp lemon juice

Steps:

  • Cook cherries and sugar over medium heat until juices release.
  • Stir in cornstarch slurry and simmer until thick.
  • Add lemon juice, cool completely before using.

Tips for success

  • Use room-temperature cream cheese for a smooth texture.
  • Avoid overmixing after adding eggs (prevents cracks).
  • For extra insurance, bake in a water bath.
April 24, 2026
April 25, 2026(1 event)

April 25, 2026

🥒 Zucchini Bread

Ingredients

  • 2 cups grated zucchini (about 2 medium)
  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup whole wheat flour (optional, for heartiness)
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar
  • 1/2 cup vegetable oil (or melted butter)
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 tsp baking soda
  • 1/2 tsp baking powder
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 tsp nutmeg (optional)

Optional add-ins:

  • 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
  • 1/2 cup chocolate chips or raisins

Instructions

1. Prep

  • Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  • Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.

2. Prep zucchini

  • Grate zucchini and lightly pat with a paper towel.
    (Don’t squeeze it completely dry—some moisture is good!)

3. Mix wet ingredients

  • In a large bowl, whisk oil, sugars, eggs, and vanilla until smooth.
  • Stir in grated zucchini.

4. Mix dry ingredients

  • In another bowl, whisk flour(s), baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.

5. Combine

  • Gently fold dry ingredients into wet mixture.
  • Stir in any add-ins.

6. Bake

  • Pour batter into loaf pan.
  • Bake for 50–60 minutes, until a toothpick comes out clean.

7. Cool

  • Let cool in pan for 10–15 minutes, then transfer to a rack.

Tips

  • No need to peel zucchini—the skin softens while baking.
  • For extra moisture, swap half the oil with applesauce.
  • Tastes even better the next day!
April 26, 2026
April 27, 2026(1 event)

April 27, 2026

April 28, 2026(1 event)

April 28, 2026

🫐 Blueberry Pie

Ingredients

Pie crust (or use store-bought):

  • 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 tbsp sugar
  • 1 cup (2 sticks) cold butter, cubed
  • 6–8 tbsp ice water

Filling:

  • 5 cups fresh or frozen blueberries
  • 3/4 cup sugar
  • 1/4 cup cornstarch
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • 1 tsp lemon zest
  • 1/2 tsp cinnamon (optional)
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • Pinch of salt

For finishing:

  • 1 egg (for egg wash)
  • 1 tbsp milk
  • 1 tbsp sugar (for sprinkling)

Instructions

1. Make the crust

  • Mix flour, salt, and sugar.
  • Cut in cold butter until crumbly (pea-sized pieces).
  • Add ice water gradually until dough comes together.
  • Divide into two disks, wrap, and chill for at least 1 hour.

(Skip this step if using store-bought crust.)


2. Prepare filling

  • In a large bowl, gently mix blueberries, sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, zest, vanilla, salt, and cinnamon.
  • Let sit for 10–15 minutes so juices start to release.

3. Assemble pie

  • Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
  • Roll out one dough disk and place in a 9-inch pie dish.
  • Add blueberry filling.
  • Roll out second crust and place on top (full crust or lattice).
  • Trim and crimp edges.

4. Finish

  • Mix egg and milk, brush over top crust.
  • Sprinkle with sugar.
  • Cut slits if using a full top crust.

5. Bake

  • Bake at 400°F for 20 minutes, then reduce to 350°F (175°C) and bake 30–40 more minutes.
  • Filling should be bubbling and crust golden brown.

6. Cool

  • Let pie cool for at least 2–3 hours so filling sets.

Tips

  • If using frozen blueberries, don’t thaw—just add a little extra cornstarch.
  • Place pie on a baking sheet to catch drips.
  • For extra flavor, add a pinch of nutmeg or a splash of almond extract.
April 29, 2026
April 30, 2026(1 event)

April 30, 2026

May 1, 2026
May 2, 2026
May 3, 2026

Our Next Event

Available Programs

AT LIGHTBRIDGE ACADEMY IN Dublin, OH
INFANT

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TODDLER

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PRESCHOOL

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PRE-K

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KINDERGARTEN

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BACK-UP CARE

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Frequently Asked Questions

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Can I enroll my child in Lightbridge Academy at any time?

Yes. Enrollment at all Lightbridge Academy locations is ongoing as long as space is available.

Is there a minimum or maximum number of days per week my child can attend Lightbridge Academy?

All Lightbridge Academy locations are open Monday through Friday. Most programs are available from 2 to 5 days per week. Back-up care is available on a daily and space available basis.

How will I be informed about my child's progress at Lightbridge Academy?
Effective communication happens on an ongoing and daily basis through our parent eCommunication app. You will receive ongoing and daily reports detailing important classroom announcements, reminders, photos, and videos so you won’t miss a thing! It is also a great tool for doctor visits helping to keep track of important information such as what your child ate, how they slept and even potty details. In addition, teachers will track your child’s development by taking observation notes based on our curriculum. We review this information with you twice a year at our Parent Teacher conferences. Of course, directors and teachers are always available to speak with you at any time.
What is the average adult to child ratio at most Lightbridge Academy locations?
Each Lightbridge Academy center meets or exceeds state regulations regarding adult to child ratios. You can rest assured that your child will receive an abundance of attention from trained and caring early childhood professionals.
4905 Blazer Pkwy
Dublin, OH 43016
P (614) 367-5781
F (614) 812-2027
Monday – Friday
6:30 AM – 6:30 PM