A Thoughtful Day, Designed For Childhood

Explore our daily rhythm, classroom communities, and the caring structure that supports children from 6 weeks to 6 years old.

A Day At Aspen Center

Our Daily Rhythm

The Aspen Center warmly welcomes children from 6 weeks to 6 years old, along with their families. Our classrooms are thoughtfully designed to nurture strong, healthy relationships among children, parents, and teachers—creating a vibrant community of learners. While we recognize the importance of routine, we also embrace flexibility. Each classroom follows its own unique flow of the day, guided by the clock but never constrained by it. We are proud participants in the Federal Food Program, which allows us to serve three healthy and nutritious meals each day. While we recognize the importance of routine, we also embrace the need for flexibility. Each classroom follows a unique 'flow of the day,' guided by the clock but never constrained by it.

8:00AM — 9:30AM
Arrival & Morning Welcome

Children arrive and settle into the day at their own pace. They are invited to explore classroom materials independently, with a friend, or alongside a teacher. During this time, children gather family-style for a healthy breakfast snack. Once each week, we serve a hot breakfast.

9:30AM — 12:00PM
Exploration & Outdoor Time

The morning includes independent play, small-group work, morning meetings, and neighborhood adventures to the library, local parks, and the many sights along Main Street. Children also spend plenty of time outdoors on our nature-inspired playgrounds.

12:00PM — 2:30PM
Lunch, Rest & Reset

Children enjoy family-style lunch followed by books, napping, rest time, and quiet activities. This special part of the day allows children to reset and refresh for the afternoon. As they wake, they are invited to revisit morning interests or explore materials thoughtfully selected by teachers.

2:30PM — 5:00PM
Afternoon Play & Goodbye

The afternoon includes independent play, a healthy snack, playground time, and opportunities to connect with friends and teachers. It is a joyful and relaxed part of the day, offering children meaningful time together before saying goodbye and heading home.

Organization of classrooms

Spaces for Growing, Learning, and Belonging

Infants (6 weeks-18 months)

Up to 8 infants with 2 full-time teachers and a part-time community support teacher. A nurturing space centered on responsive care, early connection, and each child’s individual rhythms.

Older Toddlers (18-36 months)

Up to 12 toddlers with 2 full-time teachers and a part-time community support teacher. A classroom where friendships, curiosity, and confidence grow through play.

Younger Toddlers (12-24 months)

Up to 8 children with 2 full-time teachers. Children grow in independence, movement, communication, and confidence through daily exploration.

Preschool (36 months - 6 years)

Up to 16 children in the back classroom and 13 in the front classroom, each with 2 full-time teachers. Children build creativity, collaboration, and readiness for the next steps of school.