Waitsfield, VT

Small World Children's Center is a highly-regarded nonprofit childcare center serving the Mad River Valley community since 2009. They offer a play-based, developmentally appropriate curriculum that emphasizes social-emotional learning, creative expression, and outdoor exploration. Their qualified teachers maintain low child-to-staff ratios and hold degrees in early childhood education. The center features spacious indoor classrooms and extensive outdoor play areas that take advantage of Vermont's natural environment. They provide nutritious meals and snacks and maintain strong communication with families through daily reports and regular parent-teacher conferences. The center is known for its warm, nurturing environment and commitment to inclusive, high-quality early childhood education.

Located just 15 minutes from Waitsfield in neighboring Waterbury, Waterbury Children's Space is a highly-rated nonprofit early childhood center serving children from 6 weeks to 5 years. Their emergent curriculum focuses on child-directed learning through play, project-based activities, and hands-on exploration. The center features experienced educators with backgrounds in early childhood development and maintains excellent teacher-to-child ratios. Their facility includes age-appropriate learning environments, natural light-filled classrooms, and secure outdoor play spaces. The program emphasizes social skills development, literacy foundations, and STEAM activities. They are recognized for their strong community partnerships and commitment to providing accessible, high-quality childcare to families throughout the region.

Sweet Pea Cottage offers a nature-inspired preschool program in the heart of Waitsfield, focusing on holistic child development through outdoor exploration and hands-on learning. Their curriculum integrates Montessori and Reggio Emilia approaches with Vermont's natural environment, emphasizing environmental stewardship, creative arts, and social development. The experienced teaching staff holds certifications in early childhood education and wilderness first aid, allowing for extensive outdoor adventures and nature-based learning. The cottage-style facility features cozy learning spaces, an extensive children's garden, and direct access to natural play areas. The program is particularly noted for its small class sizes, individualized attention, and strong emphasis on developing independence and problem-solving skills in young children.