Full-Day Play and Discovery, Preparing Preschool Age Children for Kindergarten

 At Daydreams Play Academy, our full-day  program for ages 3–5 provides children with a rich, play-based environment that nurtures wonder, creativity, and confidence. Guided by Reggio Emilia principles, our educators create spaces where children’s interests lead the learning, fostering exploration and a love of discovery. 

 Play is at the heart of everything we do. In our Play Academy, children engage in open-ended, purposeful play that inspires creativity, collaboration, and problem-solving. Educators observe and extend each child’s interests, supporting growth in ways that naturally build the skills and confidence children carry into kindergarten. 

 We are not a traditional preschool focused on worksheets, early academics, or memorization. Research shows that introducing formal academics too early can actually diminish a child’s natural curiosity and love of learning, which are essential for lifelong success. At Daydreams, we believe true kindergarten readiness comes from joyful, purposeful play, curiosity, and social-emotional confidence — not from worksheets

 Alongside exploration and creativity, our program emphasizes social-emotional development. Children learn to communicate, collaborate, and manage emotions, helping them feel confident and capable as they transition toward kindergarten and beyond. 

 At Daydreams Play Academy, every day is filled with engaging, meaningful experiences that go beyond traditional preschool. Children delight in our “Buddy the Bear” take-home project, show-and-share days, and visits from mystery readers who spark their imagination. Our program includes community walks and visitors, as well as family fun nights that bring everyone together to celebrate learning. Inside, children nurture Beatrice, our beloved classroom plant, and even share her “babies” with graduating friends. Our Grand Friends intergenerational program connects children with older community members for unique learning and connection. With a large attached outdoor play yard, every child has ample space to explore, climb, dig, and discover in a safe, stimulating environment. These experiences, combined with our play-based, Reggio Emilia-inspired approach, make Daydreams Play Academy an exceptional place for preschool children to grow, learn, and thrive. 

  Our program encourages preschoolers to be in tune with their bodies, guiding them to eat when hungry, drink when thirsty, and make choices that support their well-being. Children in our Play Academy do not require naps or toileting assistance, giving them the freedom to fully engage in play, exploration, and learning throughout the day. It’s all part of fostering confident, capable children who are ready to take on the world — and have fun doing it!