Junior Preschool

Ready for More, Right on Time

Growing with 2 to 3 year-olds

A caregiver and a child engaging in playful and educational activities together at a daycare. The image showcases a nurturing environment for childhood learning and interaction in a bright, organized space.
Early Development

The In-Between Year, Done Right

Between toddler and preschool, children are ready for a little more: more play, more friends, and more chances to try things on their own. Two-year-olds are curious, active, and building independence fast, so our teachers offer just enough structure to stretch them and just enough comfort to keep them secure, as language, confidence, and friendships take root. 

Nurturing Care

Personalized Attention for Every Child

No two 2-year-olds are in the same place, and that's exactly how it should be. One is speaking in sentences while another is potty training; one dives into circle time while another watches from the edge. Our teachers meet each child where they are and help them take the next step when they're ready. 

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Developmental Milestones

Rolling over, sitting up, first babbles, first steps. Our infant teachers know what's coming next and celebrate every first with you, sometimes with a photo you'll keep forever.

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Learning Through Play

Hands-on activities, pretend play, and movement build language, coordination, and confidence, all through play that feels like fun.

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Supporting Parents

Daily reports keep you close to your child's day, and we partner with you on potty training and every other big step of this age. 

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What You Can Expect

Secure classrooms, state-required ratios, and gentle structure that helps children feel safe while they stretch. 

As They Grow

Where the Journey Goes Next

Every stage comes right on time. When they're ready, the next classroom is right down the hall.

Why Our Families Trust Us

Kristen Mcintire
Millennium Academy
"As a parent, leaving your children in someone else’s care can be difficult, especially when they are so little. Our School has always given us peace of mind knowing that our children are safe, loved, cared for, and treated like family. The teachers and staff genuinely care about the children and their well-being, and it shows in the way they interact with them every day. We have watched our children grow, learn, become more independent, and build relationships with their teachers and friends. I am so thankful for the wonderful memories and experiences they have given both of my children. Choosing childcare is such an important decision, and I would recommend Millennium Academy to any parent looking for a place where their child will be genuinely cared for and loved. We are so grateful to have found such an amazing daycare for our family!”
Elizabeth P.
5 Star Childcare Learning Center
"I am grateful I have found this amazing daycare for my child. After I toured a few others, this is the only one that caught my eye. Everyone else rushed through the tours, did not seem enthusiastic, some were not very organized, and some classes seemed too crowded which did not seem very safe. I also never heard back from them for follow ups on enrollment. After looking online for some other options, I came across 5 Star, hoping that it would not be like these others. I was glad I reached out. Ms. Nicole called me within minutes to schedule a tour on that very same day which was so convenient for me. Throughout the tour Ms. Nicole answered my questions and explained everything thoroughly in great detail. After my tour I immediately decided this is where my daughter will be going to pre-k. I’m so glad I did. Every day the first question I ask her is how was her day. Everyday is a good day for her and she tells me about all the fun stuff she gets to do. I want to thank the staff for constantly keeping me up to date with videos and pictures of their daily activities. Had I known about this daycare earlier, I would have enrolled my daughter years ago."
Tiffany Hill
Redding's Kids Academy
“I’m so grateful for Redding Kids Academy! As a parent, one of the most important things for me is knowing that my children are safe, loved, and well cared for while they’re away from me. I truly feel comfortable leaving them in their care, and that peace of mind means so much. One of the best signs is seeing how happy my infant is when I drop her off and how happy she is when I pick her up. Though she can’t speak yet, that speak VOLUMES to me. Knowing my two children enjoy being there and feel comfortable with their teachers reassures me that they’re in a positive and nurturing environment.Thank you to all of the staff & the director Michelle for the love, patience, communication, and care you show my children every day. I appreciate everything you do and feel blessed to have found a place where my children are genuinely happy and I can feel confident leaving them."
Brittany Yates
Little Tigers Academy
"Everyone at LTA is amazing. We (my daughter) have been attending LTA since we were 6 weeks old. She's just over 5 months now. The teachers show her so much love. I can tell they absolutely love everything they do. I highly recommend Little Tigers to anyone who asks. Keke came in however many months ago and the whole vibe of the place is just great. I love seeing people who love their jobs and what they do. Angel, Jessica, Bri and Gabbie have all been such blessings. If our little family ever grows again, you can bet our little will absolutely be here. We are so thankful we chose Little Tigers!"
Heather Phillips
Funfield Learning Cottage
"I absolutely love Funfield! The staff are truly amazing at what they do, and you can tell that they genuinely care about each child. They are personable, attentive, and make you feel like your child is more than just another kid in their care. My son is happy every single time I drop him off, and that means the world to me as a parent. Knowing that he is loved, cared for, and treated like one of their own gives me such peace of mind. Funfield doesn’t just provide childcare—they create a loving, caring environment where the kids can feel safe, happy, and supported all while learning. I couldn’t recommend them enough! I really could not do it without this village. I appreciate each and every single person there."
Common Questions

Everything You Need to Know

How is junior preschool different from the toddler program?

It's a gentle next step for children who are ready for a little more. Days include more structure, more group activities, and more chances for your child to try things independently, while keeping the warmth and routine toddlers still need. Think of it as a bridge: not quite preschool yet, but growing that way. 

Not necessarily, children this age are all over the map on potty training, and that's normal. Talk with your school about where your child is, and we'll support the process together with a consistent approach between school and home. 

Gently and gradually. Children practice the building blocks of preschool life, following simple routines, joining group activities, and doing more for themselves, in a room designed for their age. By the time they move up, the preschool classroom feels like a natural next step instead of a big jump. 

Yes, rest time is part of every day, and most children this age still need it. Your daily report will tell you how your child slept, so afternoons and bedtimes at home hold no surprises. 

Take the First Step Today

One step closer to an exceptional education for your child, every day.

Find Your Local School

Schools across eight states, and one near you