Enrolled Family
My son is happy and thriving. I highly recommend this school.
- 877.861.5078
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Daycare and Preschool at La Petite Academy of St. Joseph
Currently Enrolling
Address: 719 N. 36th Street, St. Joseph, MO 64506
Phone: 877.861.5078 877.861.5078
Open Hours: M-F, 6:30 AM - 6:00 PM
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Welcome to Our School
Welcome to La Petite Academy educational daycare in St. Joseph, MO, proudly serving local families since 1990. For more than three decades, our school has provided a safe, nurturing environment where children can grow, explore, and build a strong foundation for lifelong learning.
Our Toddler and Preschool programs are designed to support each child’s development through engaging, age-appropriate activities that promote independence, confidence, and school readiness. We focus on developing the whole child—academically, socially, and emotionally—within a secure, caring, and enriching classroom environment.
We’re committed to keeping families connected throughout the day with SproutAbout®, our exclusive family app that offers live-stream classroom viewing, photos, and real-time updates about your child’s experiences.
We invite you to schedule a tour today to see firsthand why La Petite Academy has been a trusted choice for early education in St. Joseph, MO for generations. We look forward to meeting your family!
Welcome to La Petite Academy educational daycare in St. Joseph, MO, proudly serving local families since 1990. For more than three decades, our school has provided a safe, nurturing environment where children can grow, explore, and build a strong foundation for lifelong learning.
Our Toddler and Preschool programs are designed to support each child’s development through engaging, age-appropriate activities that promote independence, confidence, and school readiness. We focus on developing the whole child—academically, socially, and emotionally—within a secure, caring, and enriching classroom environment.
We’re committed to keeping families connected throughout the day with SproutAbout®, our exclusive family app that offers live-stream classroom viewing, photos, and real-time updates about your child’s experiences.
We invite you to schedule a tour today to see firsthand why La Petite Academy has been a trusted choice for early education in St. Joseph, MO for generations. We look forward to meeting your family!
Type
Licensed Child Care Center
License
000398083
Ages Accepted
6 weeks – 12 years
Teacher–child ratios
Follows state guidelines
Child Care Assistance
Accepted
Schedule a Tour
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Schedule a TourNECPA Accredited
Our school is accredited by the National Early Childhood Program Accreditation, a nationally recognized organization that sets rigorous standards for excellence in early childhood education. This accreditation reflects our commitment to providing high-quality child care and early education in a safe, nurturing environment where children can learn, grow, and thrive every day.
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
Your School Director leads the team with care and compassion. When joining our community, you'll find your director is a trusted partner in your child's journey.
Heather Gillpatrick
Director
I began my journey with La Petite Academy in 2012 and advanced to the Director role in 2026. Working with children and families is something I truly enjoy, and I am passionate about creating meaningful learning experiences while fostering a positive and caring school community. My goal is to ensure every child feels safe, supported, and encouraged as they grow academically, socially, and emotionally.
- Education: A.A. in Early Childhood Education
- 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
Daycare and Early Education Programs at La Petite Academy of St. Joseph
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
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.
Currently Enrolling
Toddler Care
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.
Currently Enrolling
Twos Program
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.
Currently Enrolling
Preschool Program
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.
Currently Enrolling
Pre-K Program
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.
Currently Enrolling
Before & After School Care
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.
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.
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 Phonics
Get ready to read! In this program, your child will learn key early literacy skills that will allow them to bring home stories they can read to you!
Ages: Pre-K children
Schedule: Twice a week for 30 minutes
Program Length: Three 10-week semesters (Children can enroll at the beginning of any semester)
Ages: Pre-K children
Schedule: Twice a week for 30 minutes
Program Length: Three 10-week semesters (Children can enroll at the beginning of any semester)
Spotlight on Spanish
¡Hola! We introduce conversational Spanish through stories, songs, and games, at an age when childrens brains are primed to learn a second language.
Ages: Preschool and up
Schedule: Twice a week for 30 minutes
Program Length: Four 10-week semesters (Children can enroll at the beginning of any semester)
Ages: Preschool and up
Schedule: Twice a week for 30 minutes
Program Length: Four 10-week semesters (Children can enroll at the beginning of any semester)
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
Ages: Pre-K children
Schedule: Taught in small-group sessions during classroom time
Program Length: Two semesters
Grow Fit Yoga
Strike a pose! It’s no stretch to say children will love this fun, creative way to learn yoga poses and cooperative games that develop healthy bodies and minds.
Ages: Preschool and up
Schedule: Twice a week for 30 minutes
Program Length: Three 10-week semesters (Children can enroll at the beginning of any semester)
Ages: Preschool and up
Schedule: Twice a week for 30 minutes
Program Length: Three 10-week semesters (Children can enroll at the beginning of any semester)
Soccer
Goal! In this program, your child develops early soccer skills and learns about teamwork spending time on the field with friends.
Ages: 3 and up
Schedule: Once a week for 30 minutes
Program Length: 10-week semesters
Parent Reviews at La Petite Academy of St. Joseph
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 the school. It’s amazing my daughter loves going. Her teachers are awesome and treat her like their own.
Enrolled Family
My experience has been good. My child LOVES going everyday, she loves to be around her teachers and friends! Thank you for welcoming her with open arms and teaching her what she needs to know! We love our La Petite Family!
Enrolled Family
I have thus far loves this school/daycare program. The staff is so wonderful, everyone knows my child and greets or says goodbye by name. He has made a lot of social progress and I am so excited to continue there.
Enrolled Family
I love it, my daughter is really happy and loves her teachers and classmates. I feel so blessed that I can drop her off and not worry all day. The teachers are amazing and have really gotten to know the kids!
Enrolled Family
It has been amazing the director goes beyond to make sure all of the children are healthy safe and loved.
Frequently Asked Questions
Choosing the right daycare is an important decision. These are answers to common questions we hear from families like yours.
Is La Petite Academy of St. Joseph accredited?
Yes, La Petite Academy of St. Joseph is accredited.
How does La Petite Academy handle meals, food allergies, and dietary needs?
La Petite Academy of St. Joseph provides nutritious meals and snacks, with menus approved by a registered dietitian nutritionist and aligned with USDA nutrition and portion guidelines. 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?
Tuition at La Petite Academy of St. Joseph varies by your child’s age and program, and the type of care you choose. Contact us for current tuition rates, availability, and details about what’s included in tuition.
Do you accept child care assistance or subsidies?
Yes. La Petite Academy of St. Joseph works with child care assistance and subsidy programs that help eligible families with the cost of care.
Do you offer tuition discounts?
Yes. Eligible families may qualify for tuition savings, including military, sibling, referral, and employer discounts. Contact us to learn more about available discounts and eligibility.
What does a typical day look like at La Petite Academy?
At La Petite Academy of St. Joseph, 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 do you track my child’s development and share their progress?
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 learning progress as children move into 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 of St. Joseph. 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 does La Petite Academy support children with special needs or individual developmental needs?
At La Petite Academy of St. Joseph, 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.
How often will my child have opportunities for outdoor play and physical activity?
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.
