A Family Tradition of Caring for Yours

For Families, By Family, With Families.

Proudly serving Quad Cities families since 1974.

At P&J Tender Care, we believe every child deserves a place where they feel safe, loved, encouraged, and inspired to learn.

For generations, our family has been committed to supporting other families through quality child care, early childhood education, and meaningful relationships.

Care & Learning at Every Stage

From infants and toddlers to preschool and school-age children, our programs support learning through play, nurturing relationships, and social and emotional development.

Moline and Rock Island offer infant, toddler, two-year-old, and preschool programs. P&J Tender Care Academy serves ages 2–12 with preschool and school-age care.

Explore Our Programs

Three Centers. One Family Commitment.

P&J Tender Care Moline actual center exterior

P&J Tender Care — Moline

1510 47th Avenue, Moline, Illinois

Providing nurturing child care and early learning opportunities for infants, toddlers, and preschool-age children.

P&J Tender Care Rock Island actual center exterior

P&J Tender Care — Rock Island

2201 11th Street, Rock Island, Illinois

A welcoming early childhood center offering infant, toddler, two-year-old, and preschool programs in a recently renovated environment.

P&J Tender Care Academy actual center exterior

P&J Tender Care Academy

4544 3rd Street, Moline, Illinois

Serving children ages 2–12 with preschool, school readiness, before- and after-school care, and exciting summer and school-break programs.

Helping Little Learners Grow

At P&J Tender Care, we believe early childhood is about more than preparing for the next grade.

It’s about encouraging curiosity, building friendships, developing independence, and giving every child opportunities to discover what they can do.

Through nurturing relationships, developmentally appropriate experiences, and partnerships with families, we help children build a foundation for lifelong learning.

Our focus on social and emotional learning helps children build relationships, express feelings, and develop confidence through play and caring guidance.

Meet the Family Behind P&J Tender Care

James and Paquita Richardson, owners and founders of P&J Tender Care
James & Paquita Richardson | Owners & Founders

Since 1974, P&J Tender Care has been built on a simple belief: every child deserves a safe, nurturing place to learn, grow, and feel loved.

Founded by James and Paquita Richardson, P&J Tender Care reflects a family’s dedication to caring for children and supporting parents throughout the Quad Cities.

What began as a family vision has grown into a lasting commitment to the families and communities we serve.

Today, that same spirit of care, connection, and commitment continues to guide everything we do.

For Families, By Family, With Families.

Read Our Story
Our Family Caring for Yours Since 1974

P&J Tender Care was founded by James Sr. and Paquita Richardson with a vision of providing a nurturing environment where children could grow and families could feel confident in their care.

More than 50 years later, that family commitment continues.

As a family-owned and operated organization, we understand that choosing child care is one of the most important decisions a parent makes.

When you choose P&J, you’re choosing a team committed to working alongside your family.

Questions? We’ve Got Answers!

We know choosing childcare comes with lots of questions! From tuition and enrollment to finding the right program for your little one, we’re here to make the process easier.

Is P&J Tender Care currently accepting enrollments?

We welcome inquiries from families looking for quality childcare! Openings vary by location, classroom, and age group. Contact us to learn about current availability or future enrollment opportunities.

How much does childcare cost?

Please contact your preferred P&J center for current tuition information based on your child's program and care needs.

Does P&J accept childcare assistance?

Yes! We work with families participating in Illinois' Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP). Our team can also help you understand the application process and connect with Child Care Resource & Referral (CCR&R).

Can I visit a center before enrolling?

Absolutely! We encourage families to visit, meet our team, explore our classrooms, and see what makes P&J Tender Care special. Schedule a tour at the location that interests you.

Have More Questions?

We’d Love to Meet Your Family!

The best way to experience P&J Tender Care is to visit one of our centers.

Meet our educators, explore our classrooms, learn about our programs, and discover whether P&J is the right fit for your child.

Schedule Your Tour Today

Choose your preferred P&J location to open its tour request form.

A tour request is not a confirmed appointment. Our staff will confirm a time with you.