Programs
For each age group, we’ve designed specific programs appropriate and supportive of your child’s development.
Use the “Quick Menu” or scroll to explore.
Infant 1
Our infant classrooms are home to our youngest little ones, welcoming babies as early as six weeks old (or even sooner with a doctor’s note). Each baby follows their own individual schedule, and while we do our very best to honor those routines, we appreciate your understanding and flexibility—especially since our infant rooms are often at full capacity. We’ll gather your baby’s schedule and needs during the enrollment process to make sure we’re prepared to care for them just as you would. To keep our babies’ space extra clean and safe, the infant rooms are a shoe‑free zone. You may see staff wearing slippers inside; these never leave the classroom and are washed daily to prevent bringing in any contaminants from the hallways.
Bottles
Two Refrigerators are available to keep bottles fresh: one for formula, and one for breastmilk bottles.
Crock pot warming station: Bottles can be served chilled as well, simply let your teachers know.
Each bottle is good for 1 hour after it touches baby’s mouth (DHS). We encourage MORE bottles with LESS ounces, especially if baby’s pick-up time is later in the day.
Bottles cannot be prepared at school, nor can we open/clean bottles after use for risk of cross contamination (DHS)
All bottles should be labeled with the baby’s name as well as any other items they might need (pacifiers, teethers, etc.)
Car Seats
Car seats can be stored outside of the Infant 1 classroom with labels on each. If you do not have a label for your car seat, we will provide a luggage tag with baby’s name on it on their first day. You are welcome to bring your child without a car seat if that is easier for you.
Cribs
Each crib is labeled so your child will use the same crib every time. You’re welcome to bring a swaddle for baby until 3 months, then DHS requires arms to be free while sleeping so a sleepsuit or sleep sack are great options but not required!
Infant 2
Infant 2 is the next step for our babies as they grow and begin exploring the world in new ways. Children move into this classroom based on their development rather than age—usually between 5–8 months—when they’re sitting up independently and starting to crawl.
In this room, we focus on building independence and supporting exciting milestones like pulling up, standing, taking first steps, holding their own bottle, trying table foods, and beginning to feed themselves.
For babies under one year, we follow the personalized schedule you provide in your questionnaire. Around their first birthday, they begin transitioning to our group schedule as they prepare to move into a transition classroom. This is the only move tied closely to age, though we always make decisions based on each child’s developmental readiness.
Transition Rooms
Inspectors, Navigators & Movers
If the transition classroom isn’t open yet, don’t worry—it will be ready by the end of the school year. This stage is a big milestone for little ones, as it’s the only time they move classrooms around their birthday.
In the transition room, children experience several exciting changes: they begin following our daily schedule, move from two naps to one nap on a cot, and switch to whole foods without bottles. We work closely with families to prepare children for each of these steps, making the process smooth and positive for everyone.
Transition Rooms
Transition Day
Transition Day marks the start of our new school year, a special day when children (except those in the infant rooms) move into their next classroom. This usually falls mid-August.
From that day forward, children stay with the same group of peers as they grow through Bright Haven. This consistency makes moving to a new classroom each year easier and helps them form lasting friendships.
Whenever possible, we also transition teachers with their groups. While we can’t always move a Lead Teacher, we do our best to move at least an Assistant Teacher. This helps both children and parents build strong, familiar connections with the teachers who guide them year after year.
Toddlers
Adventurers, Explorers, & Travelers*
(18-24 months)
Our toddler classrooms are all about curiosity, discovery, and big developmental leaps. During this stage, children are building language skills, exploring colors, shapes, and letters, and strengthening both fine and gross motor abilities. Just as importantly, they’re learning about personal space, boundaries, and making helpful (rather than hurtful) choices.
We believe toddlers learn best through play—it’s how they naturally explore the world around them. Our program meets all academic and developmental goals, but in a way that feels joyful, engaging, and perfectly suited to their age.
How We Teach: Play‑Based and Personalized
How We Teach: Play‑Based and Personalized
Rather than using one rigid lesson plan for the entire center, each teacher creates plans based on their own class’s interests. This approach keeps learning fresh, exciting, and meaningful to the children.
Parents can view weekly lesson plans through the Tadpoles app, which include a theme and activities tied to Arkansas Early Learning Standards (AR ELS) so you can stay connected to your child’s progress.
Throughout the day, teachers engage in what we call “Powerful Interactions,” asking questions, joining in play, and helping children deepen their understanding as they explore and create.
Center‑Based Play
Our classrooms feature a variety of learning centers that children can explore at their own pace, including:
- Manipulatives
- Dress‑Up
- Home Living
- Science
- Math
- Music
- Reading
- Art
- Sensory
These centers are stocked with developmentally appropriate toys and materials that change with the seasons and children’s interests. Every center is open to every child, and we believe in inclusive play where all children can explore whatever sparks their curiosity.
Potty Training Partnership
Potty training is a big milestone, and we approach it as a team effort between parents and teachers. Each toddler classroom has its own bathroom, and we meet children exactly where they are, never rushing, but encouraging progress at a pace that works for them.
When your child is ready to begin potty training, we’ll work with you to create a plan and sign a potty‑training contract so everyone is on the same page. During training, you’ll receive detailed potty updates in Tadpoles. As children gain independence and confidence, we gradually step back on reporting to support their growing autonomy and privacy.
Preschool
Entrepreneurs, Voyagers, Diplomats, Imagineers, Innovators*
Preschool (ages 2.5-4.5 years) at Bright Haven is where curiosity blossoms and children begin to truly find their voices. Building on the strong foundation developed in our toddler classrooms, preschoolers are now ready to explore the world with more independence and confidence.
In these classrooms, children are:
- Speaking in full sentences and learning how to communicate with friends.
- Practicing playing together and setting healthy boundaries.
- Finishing up potty training and gaining pride in their new independence.
- Exploring early academics like counting and letter recognition.
- Taking on classroom responsibilities, learning about safe and unsafe choices, and building accountability through class jobs.
Fridays are extra special when children look forward to Show & Tell, a favorite time to share something meaningful and practice speaking in front of their friends.
Preschool is a season of exciting milestones and growing self‑confidence, preparing children for the next big step: Pre‑K and beyond.
Pre-Kindergarten
Scholars*
Pre‑K at Bright Haven is an exciting time with our classrooms designed to help children take those final steps toward Kindergarten readiness while still nurturing the joy and wonder of early childhood. Here, learning feels playful and meaningful, preparing children not just for school, but for life.
Academically, we focus on early writing skills (like learning to write their names) and recognizing sight words, building confidence and curiosity for reading. Just as important, we continue to teach Conscious Discipline, helping children develop essential life skills alongside academics:
- Using the restroom independently
- Communicating with peers and resolving conflicts respectfully
- Managing emotions and practicing self‑soothing
- Transitioning away from nap time (typically in late May or early June)
Our goal is to send children into Kindergarten not only prepared to succeed in school, but also confident, kind, and ready to thrive in every way.
*Classroom Names
We’ve named each of our classrooms for the various age ranges as follows:
- Inspectors, Navigators & Movers
- Infant 1: 6 weeks to 5 months
- Infant 2: 5 months to 8 months
- Adventurers, Explorers, & Travelers (18-24 months)
- Entrepreneurs, Voyagers (2.5-3.5)
- Diplomats, Imagineers, Innovators (3.5-4.5)
Next Steps to Apply
1
Fill out the form below.
We will reach out within 48 hours with information regarding current availability!
2
Schedule a virtual tour.
Learn about our program and begin the enrollment process.
3
Read through the Family Handbook and schedule an interview.
Once a virtual tour is completed, read the handbook and schedule an enrollment interview to discuss your expectations for childcare.
4
Ready to make your decision?
Submitting paperwork and fees will secure your child’s spot!
5
Wait for your welcome email.
We are so excited to have you join our school community!
Contact Us or Apply Today
Monday – Friday
7:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Drop-Off
7:00 AM – 8:45 AM
Infant rooms do not have a set drop-off time. Children 1 year old or less can be dropped off according to what’s best for your and your baby.
Running Late? Call or log into Tadpoles.
You can start the application process today or reach out with additional questions.
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