Business Details
35 Years
experience
Trusted Daycare and Preschool in Arlington, VA
At SPARKLES!, we are dedicated to nurturing tomorrow's leaders through play-based learning that prioritizes developmental milestones. Our daycare and preschool programs, serving children from 6 weeks to Pre-K, combine a research-backed Creative Curriculum with a secure, engaging environment. With centers in Fair Oaks and Crystal City, we focus on cognitive, social, emotional, and physical development while fostering partnerships with families.Our certified teachers and innovative approach ensure children are kindergarten-ready, supported by tools like live classroom streaming and the BrightWheel app for parent engagement. We emphasize safety, inclusivity, and community awareness, striving to be a trusted extension of every family we serve.
Services
Daycare Services
Pre-K Programs
Before & After Care
Tutoring Services
Virginia Preschool Initiative
Online Enrollment
Parent Communication Tools
Security Features
Summer Camp
Referral Program
Details
- Year established: 1991
Highlights and features
- Certified teachers guide children through developmental milestones with personalized attention.
- Secure facilities feature live streaming cameras and restricted access for parent peace of mind.
- Creative Curriculum aligns with state and national early learning standards for kindergarten readiness.
- Interactive learning combines STEAM activities with social-emotional skill development.
- Flexible scheduling with extended hours (6:30 AM7:00 PM) and military/sibling discounts.
What people say
Loves it
Great teachers
Secure facility
Clean and upkept
Personalized attention
Services
Daycare Services
Our daycare serves infants to 4-year-olds, focusing on cognitive, physical, and emotional development through play-based activities. Certified teachers use sensory play and structured routines to build foundational skills. Parents receive daily updates via the BrightWheel app and live classroom streaming for real-time engagement.
Pre-K Programs
Pre-K classes emphasize STEAM learning, social skills, and kindergarten readiness through the Creative Curriculum. Children explore numbers, science, and literacy while practicing teamwork and physical coordination. Curriculum aligns with Virginias Foundation Blocks for Early Learning and national standards.
Before & After Care
Available at Fair Oaks, this program offers homework help, arts, sports, and leadership activities for school-aged children. Structured lessons adapt to children's interests, promoting social development and academic reinforcement in a safe, supervised environment.
Tutoring Services
Complimentary tutoring supports math, reading, and science with personalized plans for grades K6. Certified tutors focus on problem-solving, phonics, and basic math facts mastery. Services include speed drills, vocabulary building, and comprehension strategies to reduce academic stress.
Security Features
Parents access live classroom streaming via Watch Me Grow and secure entry with personalized codes. Facilities include monitored playgrounds, restricted visitor access, and daily health checks. These measures ensure child safety while providing transparency for families.
People
Sonia Valdizan
Founder
Sonia founded SPARKLES! in 1991 as a home daycare, growing it into a state-licensed center. Her vision emphasizes trust, family partnerships, and early childhood education excellence. She holds community engagement as a core value.
Gille Baez
Director of Operations
Gille has led operational growth at SPARKLES! since 2007, ensuring quality care across centers. With an MBA, she focuses on organizational development and maintaining high educational standards in compliance with state regulations.
Cynthia Vande Linde
Director of HR
Cynthia oversees human resources at SPARKLES! since 2013, prioritizing staff development and teacher certifications. Her background in preschool education ensures alignment between hiring practices and the companys educational mission.
Questions
What age groups does SPARKLES! serve?
We serve infants (6 weeks) through Pre-K and offer before/after-school care for school-aged children at our Fair Oaks location.
How does SPARKLES! ensure child safety?
We use live classroom streaming (Watch Me Grow), secure entry codes, monitored playgrounds, and daily health checks to maintain a safe environment.
What curriculum is used?
Our Creative Curriculum aligns with Virginia’s Foundation Blocks and national early learning standards, focusing on STEAM, social-emotional development, and kindergarten readiness.
Are there extended hours available?
Yes, Crystal City offers care from 6:30 AM to 7:00 PM daily, with flexible scheduling options for working families.
Do you offer financial assistance?
We accept Child Care VA, CCAR, Child Care Aware, and FEEA subsidies. Contact us for details on eligibility and application processes.
Can parents tour the facility?
Yes, virtual and in-person tours are available. Schedule a visit through our website to explore classrooms and meet staff.
