Kiddie Academy of Lone Tree

Center · Lone Tree · 10344 Park Meadows Dr

What kind of place is this?

Size 153 children licensed Larger than the middle half of Denver centers, where the middle half licenses 40–113. Measured across 1,156 Denver centers, 2026-08-17.

Who runs it

Chain Kiddie Academy
Owner Essential Brands, Inc. Kiddie Academy is a franchise brand of Essential Brands, Inc.; individual academies are franchisee-owned. Per the company’s own site. kiddieacademy.com

Kiddie Academy runs 7 licensed locations in Denver.

How this compares

Colorado Department of Early Childhood cited something at 16 of the 27 visits below. Across Denver centers it cites something at about 55% of visits. Each state decides what gets written up, so this compares Denver with Denver and never with another state.

Will it fit our family?

Not yet reported: ages served, hours, days / week, schedule, holiday closures.

What will it cost us?

This provider does not publish pricing.

What Shortlist has verified

State quality rating Colorado Shines Level 3
License status Active

State record — Colorado Department of Early Childhood

Last visit
August 19, 2026
On file
27 visits since September 2023 · 6 complaint investigations
Fixed?
The latest correction deadline was August 19, 2026. Colorado Department of Early Childhood does not publish whether it was made.
Most serious
Colorado Department of Early Childhood does not publish a severity level for a citation, so there is no most-serious to name.

Colorado’s Department of Early Childhood lists each program’s complaints on its Colorado Shines page, with the department’s verdict on each and a report behind it, going back about three years. Older complaints are released only on request. The department does not rank complaints by severity in either place.

Aug 2026 Limited Supervisory visit 1 finding

Limited Supervisory visit · August 19, 2026

2.237.B · Correction due August 19, 2026

In the Winter Park classroom, observed 2 holes low on the wall exposing dry wall and accessible to children.

Required correction: Immediately, buildings must be in good repair and maintained in a safe condition. Corrected at the time of the inspection. A staff member covered the holes with tape making them inaccessible to children. No response is required. Correct by 08/19/2026

State records file

Jul 2026 Complaint Unfounded

Complaint · July 31, 2026

Unfounded

The state lists this complaint on the provider’s record and publishes an investigation report for it. Shortlist has not read that report, so this row includes no citation detail.

State records file

Jul 2026 Limited Supervisory visit 1 finding

Limited Supervisory visit · July 31, 2026

2.237.B · Correction due July 31, 2026

In the Breckenridge classroom, observed paint peeling in the corner of the classroom by the Library area.

Required correction: Immediately, buildings must be in good repair and maintained in safe condition. Submit a written statement of compliance to the Licensing Specialist. Correct by 07/31/2026

State records file

Jul 2026 Limited Supervisory visit 1 finding

Limited Supervisory visit · July 6, 2026

2.225.I · Correction due July 6, 2026

While the Vail classroom was coming inside from the playground licensing specialist observed a child not wanting to come inside. CH1 was crying and refusing to come inside. SM1 lifted CH1 by the arms, pulling them upward to place them inside the building.

Required correction: Physical redirection must only be used to keep a child from immediate imminent danger. Correct immediately on 7/6/2026. Provide statement of compliance by 7/13/2026. Correct by 07/06/2026

State records file

Jun 2026 Limited Supervisory visit 3 findings

Limited Supervisory visit · June 8, 2026

2.121.D.4.a · Correction due June 8, 2026

Seven (7) new staff files were reviewed and it was observed that one (1) staff member had not yet obtain a CBI or FBI clearance letter and was working in the Telluride classroom as an assistant.

Required correction: All individuals requiring a background check must review Navigating the Background Check Investigation Unit's (BIU) Webpage powerpoint. Submit verification that SM1 has reviewed the powerpoint within 24 hours. Submit documentation of CBI and FBI Clearance Letters for SM1 with written response to Specialist. Correct by 06/08/2026

2.223.D.5.a.1 · Correction due June 8, 2026

Observed four (4) cots in the Breckenridge room not spaced two (2) feet apart.

Required correction: Cots must be spaced at least two (2) feet apart on all sides during rest time. Corrected at the time of visit by the staff in the classroom moving the cots making them two (2) feet apart. NO RESPONSE REQUIRED. Correct by 06/08/2026

2.229.K.3 · Correction due June 8, 2026

An evacuation crib in the Loveland classroom had a mattress on its side propped up not making it ready for use.

Required correction: Evacuation equipment must be ready for use at all times. Corrected at the time of visit by the staff member laying the mattress down in the crib making it ready for use. NO RESPONSE REQUIRED. Correct by 06/08/2026

State records file

May 2026 Limited Supervisory visit 4 findings

Limited Supervisory visit · May 13, 2026

2.230.B · Correction due May 13, 2026

A large caterpillar tunnel on the Early Preschool Playground had three (3) broken plastic pieces at the entrance of the tunnel that had sharp, rough edges posing a potential hazard to children.

Required correction: Outdoor materials and equipment must be safe and free of hazard. Corrected at the time of visit by the director removing the three (3) sharp plastic pieces from the caterpillar, removing the hazard. NO RESPONSE REQUIRED. Correct by 05/13/2026

2.229.L

In an unzipped, open child’s backpack in the Copper Mountain room (licensed for children 2.5 - 4 years old) licensing specialist observed two (2) small open lollipops accessible to children that could pose a suffocation hazard.

Required correction: Items that pose a choking hazard must not be accessible to children less than three (3) years of age.

2.229.C · Correction due May 13, 2026

In a child’s cubby in the Breckenridge room licensing specialist observed Boudreaux Diaper Cream accessible to children, which has a “keep out of reach of children” label.

Required correction: Items labeled, “keep out of reach of children,” must be inaccessible to children at all times. Corrected at the time of visit by the staff member in the classroom removing the diaper cream and making it inaccessible. NO RESPONSE REQUIRED. Correct by 05/13/2026

2.207.E · Correction due May 13, 2026

A visitor to the program was observed in the Vail classroom conducting a drama class, however the visitor of the program did not sign in as required by the visitor policy posted at the center.

Required correction: A record of visitors must be maintained daily, the visitor log must include the visitors name, date, time, and purpose of visit. Correct immediately on 5/13/2026. Provide statement of compliance by 5/20/2026. Correct by 05/13/2026

State records file

Apr 2026 Renewal-Probationary visit 4 findings

Renewal-Probationary visit · April 22, 2026

2.212.A · Correction due April 22, 2026

Observed that SM1 was alone in a classroom with children and the facility failed to follow a safety plan for SM1 that was submitted to Licensing. This is a direct violation of stipulation N on the probationary license. Probationary stipulation N states “All staff at the center must demonstrate knowledgeable decision-making, judgment, and concern for the proper care and well-being of children.”

Required correction: Immediately, the facility must comply with all safety requirements and plans submitted to Licensing and demonstrate knowledgeable decision making, judgment, and concern for the well being of children. Submit a plan of compliance to the Licensing Specialist by 5/22/2026. Correct by 04/22/2026

Reviewed 14 staff files and observed that 1 staff member was missing documentation of a completed out of

2.219.B.4 · Correction due May 22, 2026

Reviewed 9 children’s files and observed that 2 children were missing documentation of a current health statement.

Required correction: Within 30 days, health statements must be updated in accordance with AAP Recommendations for routine well child exams. Submit a written statement of compliance to the Licensing Specialist by 5/22/2026. Correct by 05/22/2026

In the Copper Mountain classroom, SM1 stated there were only 11 children in attendance. Identified that there were 12 children in attendance. This is a direct violation of stipulation F on the probationary license. Probationary stipulation F states “At all times, staff members shall know the attendance of the classroom to which they are assigned. Facility Director shall be able to account for all children in care at the facility.”

State records file

Apr 2026 Complaint

Complaint · April 2, 2026

Identified through staff statements and review of break schedules, unqualified staff have been left alone

State records file

Apr 2026 Complaint Founded

Complaint · April 2, 2026

Founded

The state lists this complaint on the provider’s record and publishes an investigation report for it. Shortlist has not read that report, so this row includes no citation detail.

State records file

Mar 2026 Probationary visit report not read State records file
Feb 2026 Probationary visit 1 finding

Probationary visit · February 17, 2026

2.229.C · Correction due February 17, 2026

In the bathroom located between the Vail classroom and Steamboat classroom, observed baby wipes labeled "keep out of reach of children" on the back of a toilet accessible to children. This is a direct violation of stipulation M on the probationary license. Probationary stipulation M states “Hazardous items, inlcuding items labeled "keep out of reach of children" must be inaccessible to children at all times, both indoors and outside. Choking hazards must be inaccessible to children under 3 years of age.”

Required correction: Immediately, items labeled "keep out of reach of children" must be inaccessible to children. Corrected at the time of the visit. A staff member moved the baby wipes to a high cabinet making them inaccessible to children. No response is required. Correct by 02/17/2026

State records file

Jan 2026 Complaint Unfounded

Complaint · January 22, 2026

Unfounded

The state lists this complaint on the provider’s record and publishes an investigation report for it. Shortlist has not read that report, so this row includes no citation detail.

State records file

Dec 2025 Probationary visit 2 findings

Probationary visit · December 29, 2025

2.229.C · Correction due December 29, 2025

In the Steamboat, observed baby wipes labeled "keep out of reach of children" on the floor of the unlocked bathroom accessible to children. This is a direct violation of stipulation M on the probationary license. Probationary stipulation M states "Hazardous items inclyding items labeled "keep out of reach of children" must be inaccessible to children at all times, both indoors and outdoors."

Required correction: Immediately, items labeled "keep out of reach of children" must be inaccessible to children. Corrected at the time of the visit. A staff member moved the wipes to a high shelf making them inaccessible to children. No response is required. Correct by 12/29/2025

2.229.K

In the Loveland classroom, observed an emergency bag stored inside the evacuation crib and a high chair stored next to the evacuation crib.

Required correction: Immediately, nothing may be stored in or under any evacuation equipment. Corrected at the time of the visit. A

State records file

Dec 2025 Probationary visit report not read State records file
Nov 2025 Probationary visit report not read State records file
Oct 2025 Probationary visit report not read State records file
Sep 2025 Limited Supervisory visit report not read State records file
Aug 2025 Limited Supervisory visit 3 findings

Limited Supervisory visit · August 27, 2025

2.128.C.1 · Correction due August 27, 2025

In the Loveland classroom, observed children's last names on their cubby buckets available for review. In the Winter Park classroom, observed children's last names on a list posted on the closet door available for review.

Required correction: Immediately, identifying information for children and families must be confidential. Corrected at the time of the visit. A staff member moved the cubbies in Loveland around making the last names no longer available for review until they can replace the name tags and the last names on the list in Winter Park were erased. No response is required. Correct by 08/27/2025

2.237.D

In the Breckenridge classroom, observed a staff members personal bag on the sensory table accessible to children.

Required correction: Immediately, hazardous items must be not be stored in any area of the building used for childcare and must be

2.223.D.5.a.1 · Correction due August 27, 2025

In the Winter Park classroom, observed 4 children sleeping with their faces covered by blankets posing a suffocation hazard.

Required correction: Immediately, children must have an area to rest that is free of hazards. Corrected at the time of the visit. A staff member uncovered the children's faces. No response is required. Correct by 08/27/2025

State records file

Jul 2025 Limited Supervisory visit 1 finding

Limited Supervisory visit · July 28, 2025

2.237.B · Correction due July 28, 2025

Observed the paint chipping on the low part of the walls accessible to children in the following classrooms: Silverton and Telluride.

Required correction: Immediately, buildings must be in good repair and maintained in a safe condition. Submit a written statement of compliance to the Licensing Specialist. Correct by 07/28/2025

State records file

Jul 2025 Limited Supervisory visit report not read State records file
Feb 2025 Supervisory visit 2 findings

Supervisory visit · February 20, 2025

2.213.H · Correction due February 20, 2025

Reviewed 20 staff files and observed that the Assistant Director was missing documentation of the introduction to the early intervention and preschool specialist education programs.

Required correction: Obtain current documentation of the introduction to the early intervention and preschool specialist education programs. ****Corrected at time of inspection, assistant director completed the training during our visit. Correct by 02/20/2025

2.209.A.7

Reviewed 13 child files and observed 2 child files missing current documentation of written authorization for emergency medical care signed and updated annually by parent.

State records file

Sep 2024 Limited Supervisory visit 1 finding

Limited Supervisory visit · September 27, 2024

2.230.B · Correction due September 27, 2024

In Cooper classroom observed paint chipping on the bottom portion of the wall accessible to children, causing a potential hazard.

Required correction: Submit a written response of compliance to specialist. Correct by 09/27/2024

State records file

Sep 2024 Limited Supervisory visit report not read State records file
Aug 2024 Complaint Unfounded

Complaint · August 15, 2024

Unfounded

The state lists this complaint on the provider’s record and publishes an investigation report for it. Shortlist has not read that report, so this row includes no citation detail.

State records file

Jul 2024 Limited Supervisory visit 3 findings

Limited Supervisory visit · July 23, 2024

2.230.B · Correction due July 23, 2024

In the hallway observed hanging baskets outside the classroom of Loveland, Copper Mountain and Keystone containing plastic bags of solid clothing accessible to children causing a potential hazard to children. Observed in the Telluride classroom chipped paint on the bottom side of the window of the classroom.

Required correction: All materials and furnishings must be sturdy, safe and free of hazards. *****Corrected at time of inspection Director removed all solid plastic bags from the baskets to a high shelf in the classrooms making the items inaccessible to children. Director moved a shelf in front of the windw to make the the chipped paint in accessible to children. Correct by 07/23/2024

2.223.C.2.a · Correction due July 23, 2024

In the Loveland classroom observed two crib with loose fitted sheets, causing a potential hazard to children.

Required correction: Mattresses for cribs must have a properly fitted, clean sheet. *****Corrected at time of inspection staff member removed and replaced the sheets with a more fitted. Correct by 07/23/2024

2.233.A.3 · Correction due July 23, 2024

At the time of inspection, specialist observed the Aspen classroom being utilized as a multipurpose space for children age 2 years of age to 2.5 years of age. The Aspen classroom was licensed for ages 2.5 to 12 years of age.

Required correction: Rooms licensed for specific ages of children cannot be used for other ages of children without prior written approval of the licensing authority. ****Corrected at time of inspection, Owner submitted a written request to specialist by email to change the classroom to a multipurpose space for ages 12 months to 12 years of age. No response is required. Correct by 07/23/2024

State records file

Showing 25 of 33 records. The rest are in the state record linked above.

Where this record comes from

The Department of Early Childhood keeps about three years of complaints on a program’s public page. Anything older is released only on request, as a single file covering the whole state. Shortlist asked for that file under the Colorado Open Records Act and renews it yearly; it is what this page shows for complaints older than the department’s own window.

The file this page is built from arrived on September 1, 2026 and covers complaints the department publishes today, and complaints back to January 2023 obtained by records request. The next request goes in September 2027.

The department publishes a report for each of these visits. Shortlist has not read those reports yet, so this page shows when the state came and not what it found.

Ask for this program’s record now

The department will also review one program’s complete file on request, which is more than either source above contains. Leave your email and Shortlist will ask for Kiddie Academy of Lone Tree’s file specifically, instead of waiting for the next one.

Before you tour

Kiddie Academy of Lone Tree hasn’t published

Cost, hours and late pickup, a typical day, sick and biting policies.

Ask which of these findings were serious, and what changed.Colorado Department of Early Childhood publishes a correction deadline, never whether the work was done or how serious it was.

Sources and dates

Where every fact on this page came from, and when Shortlist last checked it against that source. Anything Shortlist could not source is named here rather than left blank.

What kind of place is this

Not yet reported: established, teaching approach.

Who runs it

Licensing and contact

State record

Every state visit and complaint on file, shown in full and never edited. Open a date to read what the state wrote.

Do you run Kiddie Academy of Lone Tree? Shortlist has no tuition, hours or ratios for it, because the state does not publish that. Add what is missing. It is free and takes about ten minutes.