Business Details
27 Years
experience
Your Trusted Preschool & Childcare Center in Metro Detroit
Founded in 1999, Joyful Tots has dedicated over two decades to providing high-quality preschool and childcare services across Metro Detroit. As the only Michigan childcare center with NECPA National Accreditation, we combine rigorous educational standards with holistic health practices. Our programs emphasize S.T.R.E.A.M. (science, technology, reading, engineering, art, and math) education, Conscious Discipline techniques, and a vegetarian menu designed by naturopathic doctor Dr. Tamara Jefferson. With state-of-the-art air purification systems, daily deep cleaning by Enviro-Masters, and a decade-long commitment to eco-healthy practices, we prioritize children's physical and emotional well-being. Our small class sizes ensure personalized attention, while enrichment activities like yoga, coding, and gardening foster well-rounded development.Recognized as Business Grand Marshal for the City of Oak Park in 2018 and certified by Great Start to Quality, we maintain industry-leading standards. Our outdoor classrooms and gardens provide hands-on learning experiences, preparing children for kindergarten through play-based exploration. The Eco-Healthy Child Care program recognition underscores our dedication to creating safe, sustainable environments. With three locations serving Oakland and Macomb Counties, we offer flexible enrollment options including summer camp programs with themed weekly activities.
Services
Preschool Programs
Summer Camp
Enrichment Activities
Vegetarian Meals
Health & Safety Programs
Details
- Year established: 1999
Highlights and features
- We hold NECPA National Accreditation, the highest quality standard in childcare.
- Our naturopathic director designs healthy lifestyle programs for children.
- Molekule Air Purifiers eliminate 99.99% of airborne pollutants in classrooms.
- Daily enrichment activities include yoga, coding, and gardening at no extra cost.
- We implement Conscious Discipline techniques for social-emotional development.
Associations and certifications
- NECPA National Accreditation
- Eco-Healthy Child Care program
What people say
Dedicated teachers
Excellent health protocols
Creative curriculum
Nurturing environment
Great summer camp
Services
Preschool Programs
Our accredited preschool programs serve children aged 0-5 years with developmentally appropriate curricula. Small class sizes ensure personalized attention while S.T.R.E.A.M. activities foster academic readiness. Certified teachers implement Conscious Discipline techniques for social-emotional growth.
Summer Camp
Summer camp serves ages 5-12 with weekly themed activities combining education and recreation. Outdoor play, science experiments, and creative arts occur daily. Nutritious vegan meals included with structured social-emotional learning opportunities throughout the program.
Enrichment Activities
Daily enrichment programs include yoga, karate, coding, and gardening for children aged 18 months to 8 years. These activities develop motor skills, creativity, and social interaction without additional fees. Sessions align with our core educational philosophy.
Health & Safety Programs
Advanced Molekule air purification systems and Enviro-Masters cleaning maintain hygienic environments. Daily sanitization, temperature checks, and shoe sanitation protocols prevent illness transmission. Naturopathic guidance supports healthy lifestyle development for all ages.
Vegetarian Nutrition
Nutritionist-designed vegetarian menus provide balanced meals and snacks for all age groups. Breakfast, lunch, and two daily snacks emphasize organic ingredients without added sugars or preservatives. Dietary education supports lifelong healthy eating habits.
People
Dr. Tamara Jefferson
Schools Director
Naturopathic doctor with expertise in child wellness and nutrition. Develops healthy lifestyle programs and oversees menu design. Provides expert guidance for families seeking holistic childcare solutions.
Sue-Anne Hayes
Founder
Beloved founder known as Miss Sue who established the preschool's educational philosophy. Her legacy continues through the center's commitment to quality early childhood education and nurturing environment.
Questions
What age groups do you serve?
We care for children from 0-12 years across our programs: infants (0-18 months), toddlers (18-35 months), young scholars (3-5 years), primary (5-8 years), and summer camp (5-12 years).
Are meals included in tuition?
Yes, all programs include vegetarian breakfast, lunch, and two daily snacks at no extra cost. Our menus emphasize organic ingredients and healthy eating habits.
What health safety measures are in place?
We use Molekule air purifiers, daily Enviro-Masters cleaning, temperature checks, and shoe sanitation protocols. Our pandemic response plan follows state guidelines with virtual options available.
Do you offer summer programs?
Our 14-week summer camp runs June-September with weekly themes, outdoor activities, and STEM projects. Camp includes a t-shirt and early payment discounts for full-season enrollment.
What educational approach do you use?
We combine S.T.R.E.A.M. curriculum with Conscious Discipline techniques. Our play-based learning emphasizes social-emotional development, creativity, and academic readiness through hands-on activities.
