Schools in Des Moines, West Des Moines, IA

Daycare and Early Education Programs Near Des Moines, West Des Moines

Our age-appropriate programs nurture your child's academic, social, and emotional growth every step of the way. Every day, children experience plenty of outdoor playtime, while a healthy breakfast, lunch, and plenty of snacks are served.

Infants Program

8 weeks - 2 years

Safety and comfort come first in our Infants Program, where Primary Caregivers offer your little one personalized attention. Learn from the Start™, our exclusive milestone-based curriculum, guides every experience, from sensory play to early language and motor skill building. The classroom is designed with everything teachers need at their fingertips, so they can stay by your baby’s side. Sensory pools and mats, activity gyms, and other age-appropriate toys and materials engage all five senses, inspiring curiosity and exploration in a safe space. With a maximum teacher-child ratio of 1:4, your baby always feels the love and attention they need.

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Preschool Program

2 - 5 years

Our Preschool Program provides a welcoming classroom community where children build independence, confidence, and the skills they need for kindergarten success. Our exclusive curriculum encourages exploration, creativity, and early literacy through play-based learning.

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Summer Camp

Our Summer Camp gives children a summer filled with discovery, creativity, and fun through hands-on activities, outdoor play, and engaging weekly themes. Designed for school-age children, each week brings new adventures that keep kids learning and having fun all summer long.

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Our Educational Approach

At The Young School, we’ve been providing a unique early learning experience for children in the Baltimore area for decades. Our educational approach is shaped by each child’s interests, curiosity, and natural sense of wonder. Through meaningful, hands-on experiences, children are encouraged to explore, make discoveries, and develop a lifelong love of learning.

Research-Based Curriculum

Children are naturally curious about the world around them. Our Learn as We Grow^_® approach builds on this sense of wonder through engaging, hands-on learning experiences. Through play, children explore new ideas, begin to solve problems, and discover new possibilities. Our approach leads to the development of:

Confidence
Critical thinking
Creativity
Independence
Connection

Learning Environment

Our unique Cottage-style classrooms create a warm, home-like environment where children build meaningful relationships with teachers and peers. Thoughtfully designed spaces encourage children to:

Build Connections
Explore Together
Collaborate
Develop Independence

Commitment to Quality

With decades of experience in early childhood education, we understand what matters most when it comes to quality. Our commitment is reflected in five essential elements that help create a positive, enriching experience for every child and family.

Language-Rich
Child/Adult Interactions
The Learning Environment
Evidence of Learning
Purposeful Routines

Why Families Choose Us

Choosing childcare is a big decision, and we're honored you're considering us. From play-based learning to carefully considered teacher-to-child ratios, families choose our school for many reasons. Here are four things we know you’ll love.

Live Streaming Video

Stay connected, wherever you are, through classroom cameras. It’s just one part of SproutAbout^_®, our parent communications app that also features messaging, scheduling, learning updates, plus photos and videos to save and share.

All-Inclusive Pricing

Families get peace of mind with tuition that meets your needs: Diapers and wipes included for younger children, healthy meals and snacks included for all ages.

Safety You Can Trust

As your child’s home away from home, our school is a safe space with secure ID and entry procedures, door alarms, interior cameras, low teacher-to-child ratios, and staff trained in CPR and first aid.

Our Educators

Experienced School Directors and trained educators create a caring, engaging environment, nurturing children to ensure readiness is social and emotional, not just academic. Meet the people who make our schools special when you visit.

Inside Our Des Moines, West Des Moines Classrooms and Playgrounds

Explore welcoming Cottage classrooms and outdoor spaces where children can investigate, create, and connect with nature. Every environment encourages discovery, imaginative play, and meaningful relationships with teachers and friends.

Learning Environment

We create an engaging learning environment where children are encouraged to discover, imagine, create, communicate, investigate, invent, and reflect.

school building and playground at Young School

A Welcoming Place to Learn and Grow

Our school provides a welcoming environment where children feel safe, supported, and excited to learn and grow.

Safe Playgrounds

Our fully enclosed playgrounds provide opportunities for active play that help children build strength, improve coordination, and develop gross motor skills.

You Ask, We Answer

Clear, straightforward guidance on enrollment, daily schedules, costs, and state assistance for Des Moines, West Des Moines families.

Are there openings at Young School in Des Moines, West Des Moines, and how does the waitlist work?

Enrollment availability at Young School in Des Moines, West Des Moines depends on your child's age and the available spaces in each classroom. If your preferred program is full, the school team can help you join the waitlist and explain how you will be notified when a space becomes available. Contact your local school director to check current openings, expected availability, and possible start dates.

What are Young School's hours in Des Moines, West Des Moines, and what flexible childcare options are available?

Young School locations in Des Moines, West Des Moines are open Monday through Friday, from 6:30 AM to 6:00 PM. Families can choose full-time or part-time schedules, along with Flex Care for occasional or drop-in childcare needs. Flex Care offers prepaid days that can be reserved in advance, subject to availability. Contact your local school to confirm hours and scheduling options.

What financial assistance, childcare subsidies, or discounts are available at Young School in Des Moines, West Des Moines?

Families enrolling at Young School in Des Moines, West Des Moines may qualify for childcare subsidies, sibling discounts, employer-sponsored tuition savings, or military family benefits. Eligible families may also benefit from childcare-related tax credits or dependent care flexible spending accounts. Your school director can explain available programs, eligibility requirements, and how to apply for assistance.

How do I enroll my child at Young School in Des Moines, West Des Moines, and what documents do I need?

To enroll at Young School in Des Moines, West Des Moines, find your preferred location, schedule a tour, and speak with the school team about availability and registration. You'll need to complete an enrollment packet with your child's information, parent or guardian contact details, emergency contacts, authorized pickup information, and any applicable medical or allergy forms. The school director can guide you through the required paperwork and next steps

How do Young School's preschool programs in Des Moines, West Des Moines help prepare children for kindergarten?

Young School's preschool programs in Des Moines, West Des Moines help children get ready for kindergarten through hands-on activities, creative play, and group learning. Inspired by the Reggio Emilia approach, children explore their interests while developing early reading, math, communication, and problem-solving skills. Everyday activities also help children become more independent, make friends, and feel confident as they prepare for kindergarten.

How do I schedule a tour at Young School in Des Moines, West Des Moines?

You can schedule a tour at Young School in Des Moines, West Des Moines online or by calling 866.561.3414. During your visit, you’ll explore our Cottage classrooms, meet our educators, learn about our curriculum, and discuss tuition and enrollment options.