About Butterflies Academy

A community built around how children actually learn.

We're a non-profit preschool, Pre-K program, and child care center in Saratoga serving children ages 2 through kindergarten entry โ€” and we've been doing it with the same child-centered philosophy since day one.

Happy children at Butterflies Academy
Mission

Learning through experience, not worksheets.

At Butterflies Academy, children learn through their own experiences and interactions โ€” the foundation of everything we do. Kids explore music, yoga, art, language, pre-math, science, and dramatic play, building self-esteem, independence, and problem-solving ability along the way.

Learning doesn't stop at the classroom door. Our daily routine includes real outdoor time that supports motor development, connects children to the natural world, and makes discovery genuinely fun.

We're committed to:

  • Academic excellence through developmentally appropriate, play-based curriculum
  • Cultivating respect and compassion for others
  • Celebrating diverse spiritual and cultural traditions
  • Fostering environmental stewardship and respect for nature
These are the pillars that guide us
๐Ÿค

Trust

๐Ÿ›ก๏ธ

Security

๐Ÿค—

Support

๐ŸŒฑ

Growth

Philosophy of learning
Child-led,
not teacher-directed.

We follow a child-centered approach inspired by Piaget, Montessori, and Reggio Emilia. Play is the foundation of our curriculum, and teachers offer a balanced environment of security, stimulation, support, and affection.

Our open classroom lets children choose activities from art, music, language, math, science, nature, and dramatic play โ€” building self-confidence and problem-solving skills at their own pace. Small group sizes and a low teacher-to-child ratio ensure real individualized attention.

PiagetMontessoriReggio EmiliaIndividualized Pace
Our approach in practice

What child-centered learning looks like day to day.

Scientific research confirms the brain's foundational structure is built during these early years โ€” so every part of our day is designed with intention.

๐Ÿ’› Social-Emotional Focus

We prioritize social-emotional intelligence alongside literacy and cognitive development. Our educators build trusting relationships that help children grow independence, self-esteem, and essential life skills.

๐Ÿ‘ง Mixed-Age Classrooms

Following the Montessori approach, mixed-age classrooms let children learn from one another. Older children become mentors, while younger ones learn through observation and imitation.

๐ŸŽจ Art & Expression

Open-ended materials and ample time to create help children communicate ideas and emotions, enhance language development, and promote self-discovery. We proudly showcase their creations.

๐Ÿ‘จโ€๐Ÿ‘ฉโ€๐Ÿ‘ง Family Involvement

Parents and caregivers are welcomed as active participants. Our shared WhatsApp group connects staff and families with daily photos and videos, keeping everyone informed and engaged.

How we support every child

When a challenge comes up, here's our process.

We believe all children can learn and grow โ€” and that challenges are simply part of that process.

1

Observe & document

Teachers and administrators observe and document the situation.

2

Meet with parents

A meeting is held to discuss what's happening and build a plan together.

3

Bring in a specialist, if needed

A specialist may observe the child and recommend strategies for home and classroom.

4

Follow up & adjust

The plan is monitored for success, with further discussion if challenges persist.

Diversity & staff

A community that celebrates every background.

๐ŸŒ Anti-bias environment

Families are invited to share their heritage through books, clothing, music, and stories โ€” helping every child appreciate both differences and similarities.

๐ŸŽ“ Trained educators

All teachers are trained early childhood educators, certified in Health & Safety, CPR, and First Aid, with a 1:5 average teacher-to-child ratio so every child gets real attention.

๐ŸŽจ Enrichment included

Creative Arts, Music, and Yoga are offered as complimentary enrichment โ€” part of the curriculum, not an add-on fee.

Children creating art together at Butterflies Academy Child with a lion dance costume craft at Butterflies Academy Children in circle time at Butterflies Academy
Health & safety

Our commitment to wellbeing.

๐Ÿ’ง Hourly water breaks

Built into the day to promote hydration and support healthy development.

๐Ÿฆถ No outdoor shoes indoors

Kept for cleanliness and to enhance sensory awareness throughout the classroom.

๐Ÿงฆ Grip socks

Used to support stability, comfort, and motor skills development indoors.

Our campus

Room to run, shade to rest.

Our spacious, shaded playground gives children plenty of room to climb, run, and explore outside every day. A big sand pit โ€” kept covered and clean between uses โ€” is always a favorite spot.

Drop-off and pick-up are easy too, with ample on-site parking for families.

Spacious shaded playground at Butterflies Academy
Field trips, together

We explore often โ€” and parents come too.

Field trips are a regular part of our year, and parents are warmly encouraged to join. It's one of the many ways our community stays close-knit and connected.

Happiness at the heart of learning

Above all, we believe happiness is the foundation of a successful life.

At Butterflies Academy, children are free to be themselves โ€” playful, curious, imaginative, and kind. We're here to support them every step of the way. Come visit us and see how Butterflies Academy is helping children spread their wings!

Documents & resources

Everything you need, in one place.

Ready to see it in person?

Come meet our teachers.

The best way to understand Butterflies Academy is to walk through our door.