Parent FAQs: What Families Often Ask About Play Academy
Parent FAQs: What Families Often Ask About Play Academy
Choosing the right early learning environment is a big decision — and it’s natural to have questions. Below are some of the most common things parents ask when getting to know Play Academy, along with what you can expect from our program.
What ages does Play Academy serve?
Play Academy is designed for young learners in their early childhood years. Our environment supports children at different developmental stages, honoring individual pacing, personalities, and learning styles.
What is play-based learning, really?
Play-based learning means children learn through hands-on experiences, exploration, movement, and connection — not worksheets or pressure-driven instruction.
Through play, children naturally develop:
Social skills
Emotional regulation
Communication and language
Problem-solving and confidence
At Play Academy, play is intentional, guided, and purposeful — never chaotic or unstructured.
How do you support children who are shy, sensitive, or overwhelmed?
Emotional safety is the foundation of our classroom.
We support children through:
Predictable routines
Calm, consistent responses
Co-regulation strategies
Sensory tools and hands-on activities
Children are never rushed to “perform.” We meet them where they are and gently support them as confidence grows.
How do you handle different learning styles and abilities?
Every child is unique, and learning is not one-size-fits-all.
Our educator, Joanne Mendez, has experience supporting children across a wide range of learning needs, including nonverbal learners and children in special education settings. We offer multiple ways for children to participate, communicate, and demonstrate understanding — ensuring every child feels included and capable.
What does a typical day look like?
A typical day balances structure and flexibility, including:
Predictable routines that create security
Hands-on, sensory-based activities
Opportunities for movement, creativity, and peer connection
Calm transitions and intentional pacing
Our goal is for children to feel calm, engaged, and proud of themselves by the end of the day.
How do you communicate with parents?
We view families as true partners.
Parents can expect:
Open, strengths-based communication
Clear updates and transparency
A welcoming environment for questions and collaboration
We want you to feel confident and reassured every time you drop your child off.
Why did you choose this approach for Play Academy?
Play Academy was created with a simple belief:
Children thrive when they feel safe, supported, and celebrated.
Our program is built around inclusive, play-based learning and strong family partnerships — values that guide every decision we make.
What do you hope parents feel when they’re part of Play Academy?
We hope parents feel:
At ease
Supported
Confident in their child’s care
Connected to a community that values both children and families
Because early childhood isn’t just about preparing children for school — it’s about nurturing who they are becoming.