East Middlebury, VT

Mary Johnson Children's Center is a highly respected nonprofit childcare facility serving the Middlebury area with a comprehensive early childhood education program. The center features a play-based curriculum that incorporates Reggio Emilia-inspired approaches, focusing on child-led exploration and project-based learning. Their qualified teaching staff includes early childhood educators with bachelor's degrees and specialized training in developmental psychology. The facility offers spacious indoor classrooms with natural light and extensive outdoor play areas with gardens and nature exploration spaces. They maintain excellent teacher-to-child ratios and have robust safety protocols including secure entry systems and comprehensive emergency preparedness plans. The center is particularly noted for its strong parent communication system and community involvement.

The Addison County Parent/Child Center provides high-quality early childhood education with a strong focus on family support and community engagement. Their educational approach combines structured learning with child-directed activities, emphasizing social-emotional development and school readiness. The center employs certified early childhood educators who receive ongoing professional development in trauma-informed care and inclusive education practices. Safety is prioritized with comprehensive background checks, secure facility access, and health monitoring systems. The program includes nutritious meal services, outdoor learning environments, and integrated family support services. They are particularly recognized for their inclusive programming and support for children with diverse learning needs.

Bristol Playschool serves the broader Addison County region with a nature-based preschool program that emphasizes outdoor education and environmental stewardship. Their curriculum is grounded in developmentally appropriate practices with strong literacy and numeracy components integrated into hands-on learning experiences. The teaching staff includes early childhood specialists with credentials in environmental education and Montessori-inspired approaches. The facility features extensive outdoor classroom spaces, nature trails, and garden areas where children engage in daily outdoor exploration regardless of weather. Safety protocols include comprehensive emergency procedures and small group sizes with excellent teacher-to-child ratios. The program is particularly praised for its creative arts integration and strong community partnerships with local farms and nature preserves.