Business Details
9 Years
experience
Trusted Preschool & Nature Learning in Madison
Founded in 2017, Little Explorers Preschool is a state-of-the-art early childhood education center dedicated to nurturing young minds through immersive, nature-based learning. Our facility spans 7.5 acres with nature trails, organic gardens, and diverse animal habitats, creating a dynamic environment for children aged 6 weeks to 5 years. Co-owned by Bob and Darlene Davis, our team combines technical innovation and decades of childcare expertise to exceed NAEYC standards.We prioritize cognitive, social, and emotional development, offering structured programs that prepare children for kindergarten while fostering confidence and curiosity. Our staff includes degreed educators selected for their passion and dedication, ensuring a safe, stimulating experience aligned with the highest educational and operational benchmarks.
Services
Full-Day Preschool
Early Childhood Education
Nature-Based Learning
Animal Interaction Programs
Parent Facility Tours
Details
- Year established: 2017
Highlights and features
- Our 7.5-acre campus integrates nature trails, gardens, and animal habitats into daily learning.
- All lead teachers hold advanced degrees in early childhood education.
- We maintain a 10:1 child-to-teacher ratio for personalized attention.
- Custom-designed Amish furniture and sensory-rich classrooms enhance developmental engagement.
- Exceeds NAEYC safety and staffing standards with rigorous background checks.
Associations and certifications
- NAC National Accreditation
- YoungStar 5-Star Rating
Services
Full-Day Preschool
Our full-day preschool serves children 6 weeks to 5 years with structured learning and play-based exploration. Certified educators implement developmentally appropriate curricula focused on kindergarten readiness, social skills, and cognitive growth. The program operates Monday-Friday with flexible scheduling options for working families.
Nature-Based Learning
Children engage with 7.5 acres of natural habitats through guided nature hikes, garden cultivation, and weather-protected outdoor play. The curriculum integrates environmental science concepts with hands-on discovery, fostering ecological awareness and physical development through structured outdoor activities.
Animal Interaction Programs
Students interact with 20+ animal species including horses, llamas, and sugar gliders under strict safety supervision. Care routines and observation activities teach responsibility, empathy, and biological concepts. Classroom habitats allow close observation of animal behaviors and life cycles.
Parent Facility Tours
Scheduled tours provide parents comprehensive access to classrooms, outdoor spaces, and animal habitats. Thursday and Friday morning appointments include personalized explanations of educational philosophies, safety protocols, and daily programming to help families evaluate our learning environment.
Early Childhood Education
Age-specific classrooms (infants to pre-K) feature developmentally tailored learning centers focusing on language acquisition, motor skills, and creative expression. Certified teachers use play-based methodologies to develop foundational academic skills while nurturing emotional intelligence and social cooperation through structured group activities.
People
Bob Davis
Co-Owner
Former electrical engineer applying technical expertise to educational facility design. Oversees operational systems and learning environment innovation while maintaining strict safety standards for the 16,000-square-foot campus.
Darlene Davis
Co-Owner
17-year childcare veteran with state-licensed in-home experience. Combines farm upbringing insights with formal education to create nature-integrated programming. Manages staff development and maintains accreditation compliance for the NAC-accredited institution.
Questions
What age groups do you serve?
We accept children from 6 weeks old through 5 years old, with specialized classrooms for nursery, toddlers, and pre-kindergarten groups.
Is your facility accredited?
Yes, we hold NAC National Accreditation and a 5-Star YoungStar rating, exceeding state licensing requirements for safety and educational quality.
What safety measures are in place?
All animals are docile and closely supervised. The campus has secure fencing, monitored access points, and staff trained in early childhood safety protocols.
Do you offer parent involvement opportunities?
Parents may schedule guided facility tours Thursday-Friday mornings and participate in seasonal events showcasing children's educational progress.
What educational philosophies guide your programs?
Our curriculum emphasizes nature-based learning, sensory development, and social-emotional growth through play-based exploration and structured outdoor activities.
How are teachers selected?
All staff undergo federal/state background checks. Lead teachers hold degrees in early childhood education and demonstrate exceptional passion for child development.
