Frequently Asked Questions

We welcome infants as young as 6 weeks old at most of our schools. Our infant classrooms are designed to support children through their first year of growth and development.

We offer flexible, year-round enrollment for our Infant program, depending on availability and your family’s schedule.

Our “Active Infants, Safe Spaces” approach ensures teachers have everything they need within reach so they can remain close to your baby throughout the day. Carefully selected toys and materials support freedom of movement within safe boundaries, allowing infants to explore, develop motor skills, and engage their senses while supporting physical, cognitive, and social-emotional development.

Our Primary Caregivers build strong, personalized connections with each child to establish trust, comfort, and a consistent daily routine, helping infants feel safe, secure, and happy. Infant classrooms also include age-appropriate exploration areas that support problem-solving and fine motor development, movement spaces that strengthen physical coordination, and cozy reading areas that help nurture an early love of books.

Teachers support early language development by talking with infants throughout the day and narrating routines and activities to build vocabulary and understanding. They also respond to infants’ sounds by mimicking vocalizations, using gestures and eye contact, and encouraging interaction. By engaging in responsive communication—such as asking simple open-ended questions, describing what infants are doing, and reacting to their cues—caregivers help build a strong foundation for language and social connection.

Infants should be dressed in comfortable, easy-to-move-in clothing that supports their daily activities. Soft, breathable fabrics and simple outfits that allow for diaper changes and movement are recommended.

We recommend sending your infant with everything they need for a happy and comfortable day, including three changes of clothes, prepared and labeled formula or breast milk, and age-appropriate baby food or cereal if needed. Extra layers are also helpful for keeping your child comfortable throughout the day. To keep everything organized, please label all items with your child’s full name, and take belongings home each day for cleaning and sanitizing.

Most of our schools offer an all-inclusive diapering program, so families typically do not need to provide diapers or wipes. If you prefer to use alternative diapers with a cloth or disposable insert, please speak with a member of management about available options. Families should provide enough prepared and labeled formula or breast milk each day, and infants are fed according to parent or guardian instructions.

We follow each family’s feeding routine and provide infants with formula and/or breast milk as directed. Breastfeeding parents are always welcome to visit during the day to nurse. For infants who are not yet eating table food, families should provide a daily supply of prepared bottles or jars labeled with the child’s name, date, and contents.

Our Toddler program is designed for children between the ages of 1 and 2, supporting their growing independence, mobility, and early language development during this important stage.

Our Toddler program offers year-round enrollment to help meet your family’s needs. Availability may vary by classroom capacity and location.

Toddlers begin their day exploring the classroom through intentionally planned learning experiences that support early development. Morning outdoor time encourages physical activity and helps foster a love of the outdoors. A healthy midday lunch is followed by rest time so children can relax and recharge. In the afternoon, toddlers enjoy a nutritious snack and continue learning through small-group play and activities in both indoor and outdoor environments.

We understand that transitions can be challenging for both children and families. Our nurturing teachers thoughtfully support each child during drop-off to help them feel safe, comfortable, and secure while maintaining a consistent routine. With time and gentle encouragement, most toddlers adjust quickly and separation becomes easier for everyone.

We support social development by creating opportunities for toddlers to learn and play in small groups throughout the day. Children build important skills by interacting with peers, observing others, and practicing communication, while teachers guide them in expressing their needs and learning to recognize the feelings of others.

Toddlers participate in daily activities such as dancing, fingerplay songs, outdoor gross motor play, and indoor movement experiences that support physical development and coordination. Emotional growth is encouraged through activities that help children identify and name their emotions, better understand their feelings, and learn how to communicate their needs with others.

Toddlers build coordination and balance through daily gross motor experiences such as movement games, dancing, and outdoor exploration. Fine motor skills are supported through activities like painting, mark-making, building, and fingerplay songs, which strengthen hand and arm movement through actions such as pinching and grasping.

Each day, your child should arrive with at least one complete change of clothes, including socks, as well as enough prepared and labeled formula or breast milk if applicable. If your child still uses them, please also include jar food and infant cereal. We recommend sending extra layers to accommodate indoor and outdoor temperature changes. All items must be labeled with your child’s first and last name, and any used belongings should be taken home daily for cleaning and sanitizing.

Our Twos program is designed for children between the ages of 2 and 2.5 years and supports this important stage of growing independence, communication, and early social development.

We offer flexible, year-round enrollment for our Twos program, depending on availability and your family’s schedule.

Our daily classroom routine includes independent learning opportunities that build confidence and support each child’s natural curiosity. Through guided exploration and choice-based activities, children are encouraged to develop self-help skills, make decisions, and grow at their own pace.

Our teachers support potty training by recognizing children’s cues, guiding them through regular bathroom visits, and offering reminders throughout the day. We also use visual routines and partner with families to create consistency between home and school. Children receive assistance as needed, and their progress is always encouraged in a positive, supportive way.

We recommend sending at least one complete change of clothes so your child stays comfortable if spills or accidents occur during the day. A sweater or jacket is also helpful for changing indoor and outdoor temperatures. Be sure to label all clothing and personal items with your child’s first and last name using permanent ink.

If your child naps on a cot, please send a small blanket to help them stay comfortable during rest time. Since cubby space is limited, we recommend choosing bedding that is easy to store and fits neatly with your child’s belongings.

Our Early Preschool program is for children between the ages of 2.5 and 3 years.

Our Early Preschool program offers year-round enrollment to help meet your family’s needs.

Children begin their day with a Morning Meeting that helps create a sense of connection and routine. The morning includes hands-on learning center exploration and small-group activities that support individual growth and social development, along with outdoor time for active play. After a healthy lunch and rest period, children enjoy a snack and continue learning through guided play and discovery in both indoor and outdoor environments. 🌱

In Early Preschool, children are encouraged to explore their curiosity and ask questions about the world around them. Through inquiry-based experiences and supportive classroom routines, they develop independence, confidence, and self-regulation skills that prepare them for preschool and the next stages of learning.

In our Early Preschool program, children build emerging skills such as matching, sorting, and pattern recognition through hands-on exploration and guided activities. They also develop important social skills by making friends and learning to work together, while beginning to build a foundation for early writing development.

To help your child stay comfortable and ready for a full day of learning and play, please send at least one complete change of clothes, along with a sweater or jacket for changing temperatures. Because accidents and spills are a normal part of early childhood, having extra clothing on hand is helpful. Please label all items with your child’s first and last name using permanent ink.

There’s no need to pack meals or snacks. Most of our schools provide healthy breakfast and lunch, along with morning and afternoon snacks. If your child has religious dietary needs, special dietary requirements, or severe allergies, exceptions may be approved. Vegetarian options are available at every meal to help meet a variety of family preferences.

Children typically begin preschool between ages 3 and 4.

Enrollment in our Preschool program is offered year-round, providing flexibility to support your family’s schedule and needs.

In preschool, children build essential skills across language, physical development, social interaction, and early thinking abilities in a structured, engaging environment. Through research-based learning experiences and hands-on activities, they begin developing problem-solving skills and confidence that help prepare them for kindergarten.

Our Preschool curriculum offers interactive learning experiences that encourage children to follow their curiosity while building early academic skills. Through collaborative small-group activities and guided exploration, children learn to communicate with peers, solve problems together, and apply their learning across a variety of experiences.

Preschool helps prepare children for kindergarten by building both academic and social skills in a supportive classroom community. Children develop self-esteem and confidence as they learn to work with others, while communication skills grow through opportunities to share ideas and listen to peers. Hands-on learning experiences encourage children’s natural curiosity and help them actively engage in their own learning.

Children should wear tennis shoes or other closed-toed shoes at all times for safety during daily activities and outdoor play. Flip-flops, sandals, and other open-toed shoes are not permitted.

All necessary school supplies are provided in the classroom. Occasionally, families may be asked to contribute special materials for certain projects.

We recommend sending at least one complete change of clothes so your child stays comfortable if spills or accidents occur during the day. A sweater or jacket is also helpful for changing indoor and outdoor temperatures. Be sure to label all clothing and personal items with your child’s first and last name using permanent ink.

Our Pre-Kindergarten program is for children between the ages of 4 and 5 years.

Enrollment in our Pre-Kindergarten program is offered year-round, providing flexibility to support each family’s needs and classroom availability.

Pre-Kindergarten helps children become both academically and socially prepared for kindergarten and beyond. Hands-on learning experiences encourage children to explore academic concepts while developing problem-solving and critical thinking skills. Learning centers also provide opportunities for children to take the lead in their learning, helping build self-esteem, leadership skills, self-regulation, and self-direction.

At our schools, Preschool is designed for 3-year-old learners, while Pre-Kindergarten is designed for 4- and 5-year-old learners during the year before they enter elementary school. Pre-Kindergarten focuses on building the academic and social skills children need to support a smooth transition to kindergarten.

Please provide at least one complete change of clothes to help keep your child comfortable throughout the day, as spills and accidents can happen at any age. A sweater or jacket is also recommended for changing indoor and outdoor temperatures. Be sure to label each article of clothing and all personal items with your child’s first and last name using permanent ink.

Placement in our Junior Kindergarten program is based on each child’s birthday, completion of Pre-K, and individual needs. This program uses nationally recognized, award-winning kindergarten curriculum aligned with state standards and designed specifically for older 4-year-olds and young 5-year-olds to help prepare them for kindergarten success.

Our Junior Kindergarten program is for children between the ages of 4.5 and 6 years.

Enrollment is offered year-round based on each family’s needs and classroom availability.

In our Junior Kindergarten program, students learn using the nationally recognized McGraw Hill MyMath and Wonders Literacy kindergarten curricula. These research-based programs help children build the academic and social-emotional skills needed for kindergarten readiness, including self-regulation, sustained attention, following multi-step directions, and effective communication.

No, Junior Kindergarten is not required. It is an optional program for children who may not yet be ready for kindergarten or who do not meet their local school district’s age cut-off for kindergarten enrollment. Junior Kindergarten provides additional time to build the academic, social, and self-regulation skills that support kindergarten readiness.

Junior Kindergarten offers an additional year of preparation for elementary school for older 4-year-olds and young 5-year-olds who do not meet the age requirement in their school or who might want an additional year of skill development before entering kindergarten.

To help keep your child happy, safe, healthy, clean, and comfortable during the Junior Kindergarten school day, please provide at least one complete change of clothes, as accidents and spills can happen at any age. We also recommend sending a sweater or jacket to accommodate indoor and outdoor temperature changes. For easy identification, label each article of clothing and all personal items with your child’s first and last name using permanent ink.

At participating schools, our before- and after-school care program is designed for elementary students ages 5 to 12 who need reliable wraparound care in the morning and/or afternoon. The program helps prepare children for a successful school day and provides a safe, engaging place

Families can enroll in our before- and after-school child care programs at any time during the school year to support changing schedules and seasonal needs.

In before-school care, children receive a healthy breakfast to help prepare them for the school day. During after-school care, children are provided with a nutritious snack and have time to relax, play outdoors, connect with peers, complete homework, and participate in engaging activities. Families also receive regular updates throughout the day through SproutAbout, our exclusive family communication app.

Transportation may be provided. Ask your school director about transportation options to and from your child’s elementary school.

Our school-age program offers an innovative approach to before- and after-school care that supports the changing needs of elementary students. Each day begins and ends with opportunities for goal setting and reflection to encourage personal growth and confidence. The program also includes time for both structured and free play, a dedicated space for homework, and access to engaging activities and materials that support continued learning beyond the school day.

Yes. The school-age classroom includes a dedicated homework area where students can focus on assignments, along with daily access to educational resources that support learning after the school day ends.

On a typical school day, school-age students usually arrive with their backpack, coat, and water bottle and are not required to bring additional items. Our program provides a safe, secure place to store their belongings each morning before school and each afternoon until pick-up.

Our summer camp program is available for toddlers, preschoolers, and school-age students up to age 12. Each age group participates in tailored summer learning experiences designed to support development, encourage hands-on exploration, and provide plenty of fun throughout the summer months.

Wondercamp enrollment starts after the first of the year, giving families plenty of time to plan their child’s summertime adventure. Depending on where you live, the program runs from May to August. Our schedule coincides with the local school calendar so summer vacation dates line up for school-age students in each community.

Safety is our top priority at every school. We follow strict safety protocols that include trained staff supervision, secure facilities, and full adherence to state licensing requirements to support your child’s well-being during all summer camp activities.

At Wondercamp, imagination and curiosity guide each day’s experiences through hands-on, project-based exploration, outdoor play, and exciting field trips. Our experienced early education teachers serve as camp guides, creating engaging activities tailored to each child’s age, skills, and interests so every camper enjoys a fun and memorable summer experience.

Please send your child to summer camp with a labeled water bottle for daily use and an extra change of clothes in case of spills or creative messes during hands-on activities. Your school may also notify families about additional items needed for special summer camp days or themed events. Nutritious meals and snacks are provided during the full-day summer camp program, so there is no need to pack food.

Yes. Families must complete a consent form before sunscreen and insect repellent can be applied to their child during summer camp. Please speak with your School Director for more information about the required forms and procedures.

Children should come to Wondercamp dressed in comfortable, weather-appropriate play clothes that support active indoor and outdoor summer camp activities. For safety, closed-toed shoes such as sneakers are required each day; sandals, flip-flops, and other open-toed shoes are not permitted.

Drop-in child care is a flexible care option that allows families to use trusted, reliable child care on an as-needed basis rather than on a regular schedule. Drop-in care is offered based on classroom availability.

Drop-in child care is available for children of all ages, depending on the school. Many locations offer drop-in care for children as young as 6 weeks through school-age students up to 12 years old.

To enroll in drop-in child care, families complete enrollment paperwork so the school has the necessary information on file before care begins. We also ask that you provide at least 48 hours’ advance notice to help ensure classroom space and staffing are available to support your child and schedule.

We request at least 48 hours’ advance notice for drop-in child care whenever possible so we can confirm classroom availability and make the necessary arrangements to support your child’s visit.

please provide a change of clothing (including socks), enough prepared and labeled formula or breast milk using company-approved labels, and jar food or infant cereal if applicable. We also recommend sending a sweater or jacket for changing indoor and outdoor temperatures. If your child naps on a cot, please include a cot sheet, blanket, small pillow, and pillowcase. All items must be labeled with your child’s first and last name. Infant belongings, including soiled clothing and bottles, should be taken home daily for cleaning and sanitizing.

Our schools provide nutritious breakfast and lunch, as well as morning and afternoon snacks for children in drop-in child care. Outside food is generally not permitted unless needed for religious reasons, special dietary requirements, or severe allergies. Vegetarian options are available at every meal.