Your School La Petite Academy of Waunakee, WI

Daycare and Preschool at La Petite Academy of Waunakee

Q: 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.

Currently Enrolling

Address: 5896 Woodland Dr, Waunakee, WI 53597

Phone: 877.861.5078 877.861.5078

Open Hours: M-F, 6:30 AM - 6:00 PM

Programs: Infants Toddlers Preschool Pre-K Before & After School Summer Camp

5896 Woodland Dr Waunakee, WI 53597

Schedule a Tour Request a Call

Show all photos

two preschool students learning at a light table

1 of 10

2 of 10

3 of 10

4 of 10

5 of 10

6 of 10

7 of 10

8 of 10

9 of 10

10 of 10

Welcome to Our School

Welcome to La Petite Academy of Waunakee, WI. We are proud to be more than just a daycare, we are a caring early learning community dedicated to supporting children and families every step of the way. Our goal is to provide a safe, nurturing, and engaging environment where children feel safe, confident, and excited to learn.

We offer a wide range of programs designed to support children at every stage of development, including Infant Care, Toddler, Twos, Early Preschool, Preschool, and Pre-K, as well as Before- and After-School Care and an engaging Summer Camp program. Each program is thoughtfully designed to encourage learning through play, exploration, and hands-on experiences while supporting social, emotional, and academic growth.

Your child’s safety is our highest priority. Our school features secure, locked entry, strict check-in procedures, and trained staff who are committed to maintaining a safe and welcoming environment at all times. Families can feel confident knowing their children are cared for by dedicated educators who prioritize both safety and well-being.

We believe strong communication with families is essential. Through our SproutAbout mobile app, families receive real-time updates, photos, messages, and more. SproutAbout also provides access to live streaming classroom video, helping you stay connected to your child’s daily experiences and milestones.

At La Petite Academy of Waunakee, we value partnership with families and look forward to building strong relationships that support each child’s growth and success. We invite you to schedule a tour, meet our team, and see firsthand how our programs and community can support your family.

About La Petite Academy of Waunakee

Type

Licensed Child Care Center

License

1009020

Ages Accepted

6 weeks – 12 years

Teacher–child ratios

Follows state guidelines

Child Care Assistance

Accepted

Schools We Bus To

We bus from Prairie and Heritage Elementary Schools

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

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.

Zara Quam

Director

Hello, my name is Ms. Zara, and I am so excited to serve as the Director at La Petite Academy in Waunakee! I am passionate about providing high-quality care and creating a safe, nurturing environment where every child can learn, grow, and thrive. I am proud to work alongside our amazing team of teachers who make our school a welcoming place for children and families each day.

Education: Bachelor's Degree in Early Childhood Administration
Certifications: Leadership and Administration Credentials

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 at La Petite Academy of Waunakee

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

3 months – 1 year 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

1 – 2 years 1:4 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

Preschool Program

3.5 – 4.5 years 1:10 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 – 5.5 years 1:12 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 – 12 years 1:18 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.

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)

Grow Fit Yoga Sprouts

This program helps younger children build their ability to self-regulate, sustain attention, and express empathy and compassion, while encouraging physical fitness.
Schedule: Twice a week for 30 minutes
Program Length: Three 10-week semesters (Children can enroll at the beginning of any semester)

Grow Fit Yoga Sprouts Baby

This “Baby and Me” class offers an inclusive experience focused on bonding and intentional interactions to stimulate your baby’s motor skills.
Ages: Infants through 13 months (Plus caregiver)
Schedule: Once a week for 45 minutes
Program Length: Three 10-week semesters (Enroll at the beginning of any semester)

Kindermusik

Ready to rock out? The power and joy of music provide the groundwork to build language, math, and social-emotional skills.
Schedule: Once a week for 30 minutes
Program Length: 12 four-week sessions

Soccer

Goal! In this program, your child develops early soccer skills and learns about teamwork spending time on the field with friends.

Ages: 3.5 and up
Schedule: Once a week for 30 minutes
Program Length: 10-week semesters

Music

Ready to make some noise? In this program, your child explores rhythm, instruments, and song while building language and social-emotional skills.

Ages: 3.5 and up

Yoga

Stretch it out! Your child will have a fun time learning to do simple poses, while developing focus and mindfulness.

Ages: 3.5 and up

Phonics

Sound it out! In this program, your child will develop early reading skills through the exploration of basic literary concepts.

Ages: 3.5 and up

Spanish

The best time to learn a second language is in early childhood. Your child will discover conversational Spanish through fun, interactive experiences.

Ages: Preschool and up

Parent Reviews at La Petite Academy of Waunakee

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

Enrolled Family

We love it. Very accommodating to my son's needs.

Enrolled Family

We’ve had a great experience here and love our daughter’s teacher. We feel confident leaving our daughter here and her teacher seems to really care about her well-being and progress. We’re so happy we chose La Petite.

Enrolled Family

Wonderful!!! I can't begin to tell you how amazing the staff here are. We have said over and over again how we feel truly lucky to be able send our son to a school with teachers that genuinely care about him and check in on him. We are so thankful for all of the safety measures that have been put in place to keep our son safe and able to see his teachers and friends.

Enrolled Family

So happy here, feel our young children are well loved and taken care of. They are learning and thriving.

Enrolled Family

The teachers/staff are very friendly. They engage with my kids and provide feedback frequently. Good student/teacher ratio in all classes. My kids are always excited to go to La Petite!

Enrolled Family

Great! We absolutely love the staff, they are friendly and go above and beyond for the children all the time.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

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

La Petite Academy of Waunakee 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 Waunakee 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 Waunakee 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 Waunakee, 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 Waunakee. 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 Waunakee, 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.