A Modern Approach to Early Childhood Education
Playful Scholars was created with a simple belief: that early education should be both joyful and meaningful. Founded in Midland, Michigan, our center was built from the ground up to combine the warmth of a nurturing environment with the innovation of modern child care practices. We saw the need for a school that could balance structure with creativity — a place where children could be free to explore while developing the essential skills they’ll need for school and life.
At Playful Scholars, learning doesn’t feel forced. It happens naturally through guided play, discovery, and connection. We believe that when children feel safe, curious, and loved, they learn best. Our classrooms reflect that — bright, engaging, and designed to spark imagination and independence every single day.
Our Mission
Our mission is to inspire children to Play with purpose, Learn with curiosity, and Grow with confidence. Through a nurturing environment and intentional, play-based learning, we support each child’s emotional, social, and academic development—building a strong foundation for school and life.
Our Vision
Our vision is to be Michigan’s premier provider of early childhood education, recognized for exceptional care, purposeful play, and a commitment to helping every child reach their full potential.
Our Core Values
Toddlers are learning to play side by side, share, and cooperate. We use guided group activities to help children develop empathy, patience, and awareness of others’ feelings. Our teachers model kindness and problem-solving to help toddlers navigate big emotions — turning challenges into learning opportunities. Each day helps your child build friendships, independence, and emotional security that will serve them for years to come.
At the heart of everything we do are our 4 Cs:
- Classrooms: Bright, safe, and thoughtfully designed spaces where learning feels like play.
- Curriculum: A play-based, Montessori-inspired approach that supports hands-on discovery and early academics
- Caregivers: Passionate teachers who connect with children through compassion, patience, and understanding.
- Community: Families and teachers working together to create lasting relationships that support children’s growth
How We Teach & What We Believe
Education at Playful Scholars is rooted in research and love. We focus on social-emotional learning, cognitive growth, and creative expression — giving children a well-rounded foundation. Our teachers use developmentally appropriate strategies that help children learn through play while building self-confidence and curiosity.
Play With Purpose
We design every activity with intention. Whether children are stacking blocks, drawing, or gardening, they’re building skills like critical thinking, balance, and cooperation. Play is how children make sense of the world — and we make sure it’s meaningful.
Learn With Curiosity
Curiosity is the spark that drives learning. Our teachers encourage children to ask questions, make predictions, and explore cause-and-effect. Through discovery-based learning, children gain early academic and problem-solving skills that prepare them for kindergarten.
Grow With Confidence
We emphasize emotional growth as much as intellectual development. By modeling kindness, patience, and empathy, our teachers help children build trust and resilience. Each child learns to express feelings, solve problems peacefully, and take pride in their achievements.
The Heart of Playful Scholars
Behind every great school is a great team. At Playful Scholars, our teachers and staff share one goal — to help every child feel valued and capable. Together, we bring years of experience, advanced training, and genuine passion for early education.
Ownership Team
At Playful Scholars, our ownership team shares a single goal: to provide a safe, inspiring, and high-quality learning environment for every child. With backgrounds in early childhood education, business, and community engagement, our team ensures that each classroom, program, and initiative reflects our commitment to excellence, innovation, and the well-being of families across Michigan.
Our Teachers & Caregivers
Our teachers are certified early childhood professionals who bring warmth, creativity, and energy to the classroom every day. They tailor learning to each child’s needs, blending guidance with freedom so that children develop confidence and independence.
Professional Development
We invest in our teachers as much as our students. Staff receive continuous training on best practices in early education, including child development, safety, and inclusive teaching strategies.
Where Learning Happens Every Day
Each Playful Scholars classroom is designed to inspire exploration and creativity. Our programs grow with your child — from infancy to preschool — ensuring smooth transitions and consistent support.
Infant Classrooms
Safe, nurturing spaces designed for our youngest learners. Filled with sensory play, music, and gentle routines that build trust and early development.
Toddler Classrooms
Curious explorers develop confidence and independence through active play, movement activities, and early social interactions with peers and caregivers.
Young Preschool Classrooms
Active learners build language skills, cooperation, and growing independence through hands-on discovery, creative expression, and meaningful group activities.
Preschool Classrooms
School-ready children master early literacy, math concepts, and teamwork skills in bright, engaging classrooms designed to prepare them for kindergarten success.
More Than a School — A Family
Parent Partnerships
We believe that strong communication creates stronger children. Parents are encouraged to participate in classroom events, share feedback, and celebrate milestones with us.
Giving Back
We’re proud to support our local Midland community through partnerships, donation drives, and family-friendly events.
A Place for Every Family
Playful Scholars welcomes families of all backgrounds, beliefs, and abilities. We celebrate diversity and create an inclusive environment where every child can thrive.
Your Child’s Safety Comes First
Safety is the foundation of our care. We maintain small class sizes, secure facilities, and clear communication with families at all times.
Security Measures
Our center uses locked entry doors and keycard access. All staff undergo thorough background checks.
Health & Hygiene
We follow strict sanitization routines and wellness protocols to maintain a clean, healthy space. Handwashing, toy cleaning, and disinfecting are part of our daily rhythm.
Emotional Safety
Our classrooms are built on love, not pressure. We use positive guidance and gentle redirection to help children learn boundaries while feeling supported and understood.
Setting a Higher Standard for Care
Playful Scholars proudly adheres to Michigan’s licensing standards and maintains compliance with all state early childhood regulations. Our staff are trained to exceed expectations in every area of health, safety, and education.
Our Commitment to Quality
We’re committed to maintaining NAEYC accreditation standards, ensuring that every classroom delivers excellence in early learning, curriculum design, and family partnership.
Schedule a Tour and Experience Playful Scholars
Come see what makes Playful Scholars different. Meet our teachers, explore our classrooms, and experience our caring community firsthand.