Your School La Petite Academy on Harrell Road

Daycare and Preschool at La Petite Academy on Harrell Road

Q: How does La Petite Academy support my childs learning and development as they transition to the next age group?

Our Learn as We Grow curriculum follows six core concepts throughout the year. Children explore these same concepts from Toddlers through Pre-K, but how they experience them changes as they grow. Each program introduces developmentally appropriate activities that build in complexity, helping children deepen their understanding and build new skills as they progress from one classroom to the next.

Currently Enrolling

Address: 6915 Harrell Road, Knoxville, TN 37931

Phone: 877.861.5078 877.861.5078

Open Hours: M-F, 6:00 AM - 6:00 PM

Programs: Infant Care Toddler Care Twos Program Early Preschool Program Preschool Program Pre-K Program Before & After School Care Summer Camp

Schedule a Tour Request a Call

Show all photos

two preschool students learning at a light table

1 of 7

2 of 7

3 of 7

4 of 7

5 of 7

6 of 7

7 of 7

Welcome to Our School

La Petite Academy on Harrell Road has welcomed children since August 1979. Find our daycare and preschool in Knoxville, Tennessee, close to Grace Baptist Church and Grace Christian Academy. Credentials here include CPR and First Aid certifications.

Enrollment includes Infants, Toddlers, Twos, Early Preschool, Preschool, Pre-K, and Before and After School Care, for ages 6 weeks to 12 years. For flexible daycare, choose Drop-in Care, Part-time schedules, and School Breaks, so care fits your week. Third-party tuition assistance is welcome; tour with us and learn more. Our summer camp, Wondercamp, offers Wonders of Music, Wonders of Art, and outdoor play. Learn from the Start® brings babies sensory play, and Learn as We Grow® for Toddlers through Pre-K lets children learn by doing, like two-year-olds watching plants grow.

Children can join Spotlight on Kindergarten, which builds kindergarten readiness through essential skills. Ask about bussing with Ball Camp Elementary School, Hardin Valley Elementary School, and Karns Elementary School, with other schools to discuss on tour. An age-separated outdoor playground gives every child a space that fits. Our SproutAbout® app shares real-time photos, video, and care updates, plus livestreaming video of the classroom.

Snack time brings healthy bites and a chance to try foods children have not tasted before. You can drop off with confidence because we lead with safety in every room. See us in person: come tour La Petite Academy on Harrell Road at 6915 Harrell Road, Knoxville, TN 37931.

About La Petite Academy on Harrell Road

Proudly serving families in Knoxville, Karns and Hardin Valley

Type

Licensed Child Care Center

License

47/23726A

Ages Accepted

6 weeks – 12 years

Enrollment Options

Full-time, Part-time, Drop-in Care, School Breaks, Summer Camp

Teacher–child ratios

Follows state guidelines

Child Care Assistance

Accepted

Schools We Bus To

Mill Creek Elementary School, Ball Camp Elementary School, Karns Elementary School, Hardin Valley Elementary School

Schedule a Tour

With just a few clicks, it’s simple, fast, and convenient! Just choose your ideal date and time, then confirm.

Schedule a Tour

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.

Research-Based Curriculum

Our exclusive Learn as We Grow^_® curriculum has been lovingly crafted by our dedicated, in-house early childhood experts. Hands-on learning keeps children engaged and builds essential kindergarten skills.

Meet the School Director

Behind each school day is a director who guides the team and builds strong relationships with families. Get to know the person who leads our locally rooted early learning center and helps make every child's early education experience meaningful.

Shirley Scalf

Director

Working with children of all ages has always been my passion. After several years of teaching in the classroom, I decided to continue growing my career with a company dedicated to nurturing young minds. I am passionate about supporting children as they learn, grow, and reach their full potential.

Education: National CDA in Child Development
Certifications: CPR/First Aid

Caring, Qualified Teachers

Qualified, experienced, highly trained daycare teachers nurture your child and inspire a love of learning. Our teacher-to-child ratio is thoughtfully defined to ensure each child feels safe, seen, and loved.

Qualifications and Standards

Rigorous background checks
Supported by a dedicated team of education experts and staff
Ongoing professional training and development
Key staff trained in First Aid and CPR

Teacher uses a hand puppet to engage a group of toddlers during an interactive classroom activity.

Daycare and Early Education Programs on Harrell Road

From infants to school-age, 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.

Currently Enrolling

Infant Care

0 weeks – 1.5 years 1:4 Staff-to-Child Ratio

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. Diapers and wipes are also included, giving families one less thing to worry about each day.

Explore Infant Care >

Currently Enrolling

Toddler Care

11 months – 2 years 1:5 Staff-to-Child Ratio

Our Toddlers Program provides a stimulating, supportive environment with plenty of room to move, explore, and discover. Children build new skills as they begin to communicate and express their growing personalities. Our Learn as We Grow curriculum guides their development through immersive learning experiences, educational toys, and engaging activities. Each experience is designed to inspire curiosity and support important developmental milestones.

Explore Toddler Care >

Currently Enrolling

Twos Program

1.5 – 2.5 years 1:6 Staff-to-Child Ratio

These little learners are on the go! Our Twos Program provides a dynamic, engaging environment where children can play, explore, and build new skills as they develop greater independence and curiosity about the world around them. Our exclusive curriculum, Learn as We Grow, enables teachers to guide children’s development through purposeful, immersive learning experiences. Open-ended classroom areas, educational activities, and a variety of tactile learning materials encourage children to explore their senses, express their individuality, and discover new skills.

Explore Care for Twos >

Currently Enrolling

Early Preschool Program

2.5 – 3.5 years 1:9 Staff-to-Child Ratio

Our Early Preschool Program provides a fun, engaging environment where children can build independence, establish routines, and develop the self-help skills they need as they prepare for Preschool. Specifically designed for 30- to 42-month-old children, this program’s stimulating classroom environment provides opportunities for children to explore their interests, engage with peers, and build curiosity and confidence as independent learners. Hands-on learning experiences continue to be shared through our exclusive Learn as We Grow curriculum

Explore Early Preschool >

Currently Enrolling

Preschool Program

3 – 4 years 1:9 Staff-to-Child Ratio

Our Preschool Program provides a welcoming classroom community where children build independence, confidence, and the skills they need for kindergarten success. Our exclusive, research-based Learn as We Grow curriculum uses thought-provoking prompts and hands-on experiences to encourage communication, cooperation, and creativity. Thoughtfully designed Learning Centers give children opportunities to explore their interests, engage with classmates, and discover new concepts through joyful learning.

Explore Preschool >

Currently Enrolling

Pre-K Program

4 – 5 years 1:13 Staff-to-Child Ratio

Our Pre-Kindergarten Program helps prepare children for a successful transition to kindergarten. In this interactive learning community, curiosity leads the way as children wonder, explore, and make discoveries. In this classroom, our research-based Learn as We Grow curriculum supports academic and social-emotional development through purposeful routines, materials, and learning experiences. Children master problem-solving, responsive listening, communication, and collaboration skills while building confidence for kindergarten.

Explore Pre-Kindergarten >

Currently Enrolling

Before & After School Care

5 – 13 years 1:20 Staff-to-Child Ratio

Our Before- and After-School Program offers support to working families with care options in the morning and afternoon. School-age children can relax, connect with friends, and stay engaged each day. Children can enjoy outdoor play, purposeful activities, and access to a dedicated homework area with teacher support. Healthy breakfasts and afternoon snacks are offered to boost energy and brain power on school days.

Explore Before & After School Care >

Call for Availability

Summer Camp

Our Summer Camp program, Wondercamp, gives children a summer filled with discovery, creativity, and fun through hands-on activities, outdoor play, and engaging weekly themes. Designed for toddlers to 12-year-olds, this full-day program encourages imagination, curiosity, and collaboration with friends. Older campers also enjoy local field trips, while younger children meet in-school visitors and participate in special events. Enroll your child for a week or all season long. With Wondercamp, we give you plenty of options to simplify your summer plans.

Explore Wondercamp >

Enrichment Programs

For an additional fee, go beyond the classroom with fun, interactive programs exploring a variety of activities. Ask your director for schedules and pricing.

Spotlight on Kindergarten

Kindergarten, here we come! This program, designed for Pre-K children, focuses on essential school skills (such as handwriting, math, and problem-solving).
Ages: Pre-K children
Schedule: Taught in small-group sessions during classroom time
Program Length: Two semesters

Sports

It’s game time! Your child will explore a variety of sports and skills while building coordination, teamwork, and a love of movement.

Ages: 2.9 and up

Parent Reviews of La Petite Academy on Harrell Road

Families trust us to care for, nurture, and support their children during these important early years. Let them tell you why.

Enrolled Family

I love this school. Everyone is so genuinely caring and friendly. I feel like my child is very well cared for.

Enrolled Family

We love the teachers and it is fun to see the kinds growing teaching us what they learned at school that day.

Enrolled Family

Our child has developed so much since attending La Petite!

Enrolled Family

It is a wonderful feeling knowing I can drop my son off each day and he is going to be loved just like he would if I could stay home with him. I feel Ms. Kim sets a high standard for her staff and it has definitely shown in all 3 classrooms my son has been in.

Enrolled Family

My experience with the over all school and staff there has been AMAZING! I always recommended this school when people are looking to send their children somewhere. My child and future children will attend here as long as they can!

Enrolled Family

We love this school. My child is new to the school (less than 6 months) and I had a hard time leaving him at first. The directors and teachers have done a great job at making me comfortable with leaving my child and knowing that he is in good hands of people who actually care about him. We couldn’t be more happy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Choosing the right daycare is an important decision. These are answers to common questions we hear from families like yours.

Do you offer part-time enrollment or drop-in care at La Petite Academy on Harrell Road?

Yes, La Petite Academy on Harrell Road offers flexible enrollment options that allow children to enjoy engaging learning experiences, build friendships, and benefit from a nurturing educational environment without attending full-time. Speak with our school team to explore scheduling options that work best for your family.

How does La Petite Academy handle meals, food allergies, and dietary needs?

At La Petite Academy, we provide nutritious breakfasts, lunches, and snacks, with menus approved by a registered dietitian nutritionist and aligned with USDA nutrition and portion guidelines. Our meals include a variety of fruits, vegetables, and age-appropriate foods to support children's healthy growth and development. If your child has a food allergy or dietary restriction, we’ll work with your family to understand their needs and develop an appropriate plan. Vegetarian options are available, and additional accommodations may be available for special dietary needs, religious requirements, or severe food allergies.

How much is tuition at La Petite Academy on Harrell Road?

Tuition at La Petite Academy on Harrell Road varies by your child’s age, selected program, and care schedule. We offer flexible childcare options to meet different family needs. Our team is happy to discuss current tuition rates, available discounts, financial assistance, and enrollment options to help you find the right fit for your family.

Do you offer tuition discounts?

Yes. Eligible families at La Petite Academy on Harrell Road may qualify for tuition savings, including military, sibling, referral, and employer discounts. Contact us to learn more about available discounts and eligibility.

Do you accept child care assistance or subsidies?

Yes. La Petite Academy on Harrell Road works with Child Care Aware of America (CCAOA) (MCCYN), Department of Human Services (DHS) to help eligilbe families manage the cost of childcare and early education. Families may also qualify for tuition discounts and other financial support options based on their eligibility. To learn more, contact our school director.

How does La Petite Academy track my child’s development and share their progress?

At La Petite Academy, each child has an individual portfolio that grows with them as they progress from one age group to the next, capturing their development and learning along the way. Teachers use developmental checklists, work samples, photos, and observations to understand their progress and support continued growth. Families stay connected through SproutAbout updates, family-teacher conferences, and daily conversations with their child’s teachers.

How does La Petite Academy support my childs learning and development as they transition to the next age group?

Our Learn as We Grow curriculum follows six core concepts throughout the year. Children explore these same concepts from Toddlers through Pre-K, but how they experience them changes as they grow. Each program introduces developmentally appropriate activities that build in complexity, helping children deepen their understanding and build new skills as they progress from one classroom to the next.

How does La Petite Academy support children as they transition between classrooms and developmental stages?

Moving to a new classroom is an exciting milestone at La Petite Academy on Harrell Road. Children gradually visit their new classroom, meet their teachers, and become familiar with new routines before the transition. Teachers work together to support continuity, while families receive regular updates throughout the process.

How often will my child have opportunities for outdoor play and physical activity?

At La Petite Academy, we encourage daily physical activity and outdoor play through our Grow Fit^_® program, helping children develop healthy habits, build motor skills, and enjoy staying active. Outdoor exploration happens more than once a day, weather permitting, giving children time to run, climb, jump, and explore nature. These experiences encourage curiosity, movement, and a connection with the world around them.

What does a typical day look like at La Petite Academy?

At La Petite Academy on Harrell Road, your child’s day includes a mix of learning, play, outdoor time, meals, and rest. Children explore Learning Centers, participate in small- and large-group activities, and enjoy time outdoors. Meals, snacks, rest, and plenty of opportunities for choice and play are built into the day, providing a familiar routine while keeping each day engaging.

How does La Petite Academy support children with special needs or individual developmental needs?

At La Petite Academy on Harrell Road, we recognize that every child learns and develops differently. We encourage you to talk with your local school about your child’s specific needs. Our team will work with you to understand how we can support your child and discuss any accommodations or additional support they may need. Open communication with families helps us create a nurturing, inclusive environment where each child can learn, grow, and feel supported.