Our Curriculum

The Little Years™ Curriculum

At Happy Day Childcare & Preschool, The Little Years™ is our Waldorf- and literature-inspired early learning curriculum designed for children ages 0–5. It was thoughtfully developed to offer a well-balanced approach that honors childhood as a time for wonder, creativity, and meaningful connection—while also supporting the structure and guidance children need to feel secure and confident.

Children learn through child-led play, hands-on exploration, storytelling, music, and nature-based experiences that nurture imagination, curiosity, and independence. At the same time, The Little Years™ emphasizes the importance of predictable rhythms, clear boundaries, and respectful guidance, helping children build emotional regulation, empathy, and a sense of responsibility within their community.

For our youngest learners, The Little Years: Beginnings™ (0–18 months) focuses on secure attachment, responsive caregiving, sensory exploration, and early communication, providing a gentle foundation for lifelong learning.

Throughout the program, children experience enriched learning woven naturally into the day, including Spanish language exposure, Farm-to-Table cooking and nutrition experiences, speech and language support, Nature Days and outdoor learning, and creative arts, music, and movement.

The Little Years™ supports the whole child—socially, emotionally, physically, and cognitively—creating an environment where children feel safe to explore, confident to try new things, and supported in learning kindness, empathy, respect, and cooperation during the little years that matter most.