The first day of school is a big deal. We know that — and we've spent decades making sure it goes well. The Tadpoles classroom is where three-year-olds take their very first steps into school life, surrounded by teachers who genuinely love this age and a rhythm that makes children feel safe enough to be curious.

A day in the Tadpoles class

Three-year-olds learn through play, and every part of our day is designed with that in mind. Circle time, sensory exploration, art, outdoor adventures, early literacy, and imaginative play flow together in a structure that feels both predictable and endlessly interesting. Children know what comes next, and that security is what lets them take risks, try new things, and make their first real friendships.

We spend at least 60 minutes outside every day — on the playground, in the garden, and in the natural world just outside our door. Rain is rarely a reason to stay in.

Social and emotional learning comes first

At three, the most important skills aren't yet academic. They're relational. Learning to listen when someone else is talking. Sharing a space and the things in it. Working through a disagreement with words. Feeling genuinely at home in a group of peers. Our teachers are exceptional at building this foundation — and it makes everything that comes later, in kindergarten and beyond, so much easier.

Fine and gross motor development, emergent math, early literacy, and pre-writing skills are all woven into daily activities — but always in ways that feel like play, because at this age, play is the work.

Schedule

Tadpoles attend 2, 3, 4, or 5 days per week from 9:30am–1:30pm, Monday through Friday. Two or three days is the most common starting point for 3-year-olds, and many families add days as their child settles in and asks for more. Families interested in 4 or 5 days are warmly welcome to reach out directly — this is arranged through a brief conversation with the director.

Tuition

2 days/week — $525/month
3 days/week — $780/month
4 days/week — $1,050/month*
5 days/week — $1,300/month*

Tuition is billed over 10 months. A non-refundable registration fee applies.

Class size: Maximum 12 students · Teacher-to-student ratio: never exceeding 1:6