Childcare & Preschool | Willowdale Children's Academy

Chadds Ford, PA, Daycare:

A Space to Learn, Play, and Thrive!

Play-Based S.T.E.A.M Curriculum. Award-Winning Programs. No Annual Registration Fees.

Welcome to Willowdale Children’s Academy in Chadds Ford! We provide a safe, enjoyable, and stimulating environment where children are eager to learn. As a Keystone Star 4-accredited school, we are committed to delivering a high-quality, play-based education that equips young children for kindergarten and beyond. We encourage you to tour our school, meet our certified teachers, and find a second home for your family.

“Thank You for setting standards that exceed normal expectations.”

By Jennifer V.

Discover Excellence in Early Childhood Education

At Willowdale Children’s Academy, we believe that children thrive when learning is enjoyable. Our curriculum is crafted to ignite curiosity and foster confidence, ensuring your child looks forward to coming to school each day. We turn learning into an exciting journey.

Why Families Choose Our Chadds Ford School:

Here’s What Parents Say

“We enrolled our three young children into Willowdale and since then our kids have excelled beyond our expectations. The teachers are amazing and really focus on developing the children’s learning capabilities and that is extremely important to us.”

-Adam B., Father & Google Reviewer

Check Out Our School

A Thrilling and Enriching Educational Journey

Since opening in 2012, our Chadds Ford location has been a nationally recognized Early Learning Center, serving children from 6 weeks old through Pre-Kindergarten. Our year-round programs are packed with opportunities for discovery, from hands-on STEAM projects to engaging enrichment activities.

We inspire children to become independent thinkers and confident problem-solvers. Our teachers cultivate an environment of encouragement where students feel secure to explore, experiment, and achieve.

Our Enrichment Programs Are a Blast!

Soccer shots

Music

Sign Language

Dance

Foreign Language Classes (Spanish)

Our goal is simple: your child’s happiness, well-being, and success.

Curriculum and Classes in Chadds Ford: Frequently Asked Questions

What is Willowdale Children's Academy's core educational philosophy?

Our philosophy is rooted in the belief that children learn best through play. We implement a proprietary, play-based curriculum that is fun, engaging, and developmentally appropriate for every age group. This approach nurtures curiosity, independence, and a lifelong love of learning.

What does it mean for your curriculum to be STEAM-based?

Our curriculum incorporates STEAM—Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics. Through hands-on, project-based learning, we inspire children to explore, think critically, and solve problems creatively. This approach ensures a well-rounded education and prepares them for future academic success.

What age groups do your programs accommodate?

We provide high-quality early learning education for children as young as six weeks through Pre-Kindergarten. Additionally, we offer before and after-care programs for school-age children from kindergarten to third grade, as well as exciting summer camp options.

Are Willowdale's teachers certified?

Yes, all of our teachers are certified professionals in Early Childhood Education. They are passionate about child development and committed to fostering a safe, nurturing, and stimulating environment where every child can thrive.

What makes your curriculum unique?

In addition to our play-based STEAM emphasis, we integrate award-winning programs like Learning Without Tears® to build strong kindergarten readiness. Our curriculum is also flexible, allowing teachers to adapt lessons to each child’s unique progress and needs.

Do you offer specialized programs for infants and toddlers?

Absolutely. We have dedicated programs for infants and toddlers that focus on essential early developmental milestones. Our compassionate teachers create a supportive environment that fosters social, emotional, physical, and intellectual growth for our youngest learners.

What enrichment programs are available?

To provide a well-rounded and engaging experience, we offer a variety of enrichment activities, including Soccer Shots, Music, Sign Language, Foreign Language Classes (Spanish), and Dance.

What are your class sizes like?

We prioritize maintaining low teacher-to-child ratios in every classroom. This ensures that each child receives personalized attention and support, helping them thrive academically and socially.

Are flexible enrollment options offered?

Yes, we recognize that families have varying needs. We provide flexible options, including full-time, part-time, and half-day enrollment. Our year-round programs and before/after-care services are designed to fit your family’s schedule.

How does your program prepare children for Kindergarten?

Our curriculum is carefully designed to ensure a seamless and successful transition to Kindergarten. By focusing on STEAM, literacy, and math, while fostering social skills, confidence, and critical thinking, we equip children with the tools they need for lifelong learning and achievement.

Visit Our School in Chadds Ford!

Ready to see the Willowdale difference for yourself? We welcome your family to visit our academy, meet our wonderful staff, and see why we are a community-trusted choice for early childhood education.

Location:

10 Ponds Edge Dr Chadds Ford, PA 19317

Hours:

Monday – Friday, 6:30 AM – 6:00 PM

Contact Us to Book Your Tour:


Call: 484.770.8490
Email: chaddsford@willowdalechildrens.com

Contact Us Today

Ready to give your child the best start in life?

Schedule a Tour Now

Meet our incredible teachers, explore our classrooms, and see why families across the community trust us with their child’s early education.