Business Details
43 Years
experience
Trusted Preschool Programs in Orleans, MA
Established in 1983, The Learning Garden Preschool is a private nonprofit institution dedicated to providing developmentally appropriate early childhood education for children aged 3 to 6 years. Our programs emphasize confidence-building, respect, and trust within a nurturing environment, supported by licensed educators and optimal student-teacher ratios. Located on a 2-acre campus in Orleans, Massachusetts, we offer Preschool, Pre-K, and Enrichment programs designed to foster social, emotional, and academic growth.With decades of collective experience, our certified staff prioritizes individualized learning and kindergarten readiness while maintaining a commitment to community engagement and educational excellence. Our facility includes sunny classrooms and a large playground, reflecting our mission to create a foundation for lifelong learning through play, exploration, and structured curriculum.
Services
Preschool
Pre-K
Enrichment
After School Care
Summer Programs
Details
- Year established: 1983
Highlights and features
- We offer 40+ years of combined experience in early childhood education through licensed, certified staff
- Our programs maintain optimal student-teacher ratios for personalized attention and safety
- We provide flexible scheduling options including morning, afternoon, and extended day programs
- Our curriculum emphasizes kindergarten readiness through play-based learning and structured activities
- We operate as a nonprofit organization committed to community-focused early education
Associations and certifications
- Early Education and Care
Services
Preschool
Our Preschool program serves children aged 2.9-4 years with morning sessions focused on social-emotional development and foundational learning. Through play-based activities and structured routines, children build confidence and peer relationships. The curriculum emphasizes creative expression, motor skills, and early literacy in a nurturing environment.
Pre-K
Designed for 4-5 year-olds, our Pre-K program develops kindergarten readiness through comprehensive skill-building. Daily activities strengthen language, cognitive abilities, and self-help skills while fostering positive self-identity. Certified teachers implement research-based practices to prepare children for elementary school transitions.
Enrichment
Flexible Enrichment programs accommodate families needing extended hours with sessions from 8am-9am and 12pm-4pm. Activities include creative play, outdoor exploration, and supplemental learning experiences. Supervised by lead teachers, this program maintains educational continuity while offering scheduling flexibility for working families.
After School Care
Our After School Care program provides structured afternoon activities for children aged 3-6 until 5pm. The curriculum includes enrichment projects, physical play, and homework support. Certified staff maintain consistent educational standards while offering a seamless transition from morning academic programs.
Summer Programs
Summer Programs offer continued learning and social development during school breaks. Age-appropriate activities include outdoor exploration, arts integration, and community-building exercises. Certified educators maintain small group sizes to ensure safety and individualized attention throughout the summer months.
People
Hanna Schneider
Co-Director & Preschool Lead Teacher
BS in Early Childhood Education from Wheelock College with 35+ years teaching experience. Massachusetts Lead Teacher and Director certified. Co-Director since 2003, specializing in play-based learning and curriculum development.
Brenda Halliday
Support Director
BS in Elementary Education and Special Needs from SUNY Geneseo. Massachusetts certified educator with 45+ years preschool experience. Founding member of The Learning Garden in 1983, providing leadership in early childhood programming.
Sandy Fields
Enrichment Lead Teacher
BS in Early Childhood Education from Wheelock College with 25+ years at The Learning Garden. Former elementary school teacher with expertise in extended day programming and child development. Massachusetts Lead Teacher certified.
Jennifer Gaeta
Co-Director & Pre-K Teacher
BS in Sociology from University of Hartford. Teacher Certified by EEC with 14+ years experience. Currently serves as Co-Director and Lead Teacher for Pre-K Blue Room, focusing on kindergarten transition programs.
Pam Smith
Office Manager & Enrichment Teacher
BS in Management from Bentley College. Massachusetts Teacher certified with 30+ years at The Learning Garden. Combines administrative leadership with classroom experience in afternoon enrichment programming.
Questions
What age requirements exist for enrollment?
We accept children aged 2.9-6 years. Programs are structured by developmental stages with specific age ranges for Preschool, Pre-K, and Enrichment sessions.
Are part-time attendance options available?
Our core programs operate full-time with morning sessions (9am-12pm). Enrichment hours offer flexible add-on options for families needing extended care before or after standard hours.
What qualifications do your teachers hold?
All staff maintain Massachusetts Early Education and Care certifications. Our directors and lead teachers hold advanced degrees in education with decades of combined preschool experience.
How does the enrollment process work?
Enrollment follows a first-come basis with sibling and returning family priority. Contact our office for current availability and registration requirements.
Do you offer summer programming?
Yes, we provide structured summer programs maintaining educational continuity. Sessions include age-appropriate activities and outdoor learning experiences for enrolled children.
What safety measures are in place?
We maintain licensed status with regular inspections. Small class sizes, secure facilities, and certified staff ensure child safety. Emergency protocols follow state regulatory requirements.
