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Our Curriculum & Learning Philosophy

A Balanced Approach to Early Learning

At Lil’ Patriots Academy, we believe learning should be as joyful as it is meaningful. Our curriculum blends the structure of Abeka Book with the active, hands-on exploration of HighScope, giving every child the perfect balance of guided instruction and creative freedom.

Each day is carefully planned to spark curiosity, build confidence, and support the natural way children learn — through play, discovery, and relationships. Teachers personalize each lesson to meet the developmental needs of the child while creating an engaging and inclusive classroom environment where every child feels valued and capable.

Our approach ensures that every child develops not only academically but also socially, emotionally, and creatively, preparing them for a lifetime of learning.

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Teacher leading circle time with preschoolers at Lil’ Patriots Academy, supporting families with financial assistance for quality child care in Puyallup. Toddler balancing outdoors at Lil’ Patriots Academy, where families can learn about child care subsidies and financial assistance in Puyallup.

Our Blended Approach

Abeka-Inspired Structure

We use Abeka as a practical, comprehensive base that helps children build early skills in letters, sounds, numbers, and good classroom habits. Teachers have freedom to adapt lessons so they feel warm, creative, and age-appropriate.

HighScope Active Learning

We also implement HighScope strategies — children get to make choices, explore materials, and engage in hands-on activities that build critical thinking, social-emotional skills, and independence.

Monthly Themes

Each month we rotate themes (seasons, community helpers, nature, holidays, etc.) so children see connections to the world around them and teachers can bring in their own creativity.

Balanced Day

Every day includes a mix of structured learning, center play, outdoor time, social-emotional learning, and teacher-guided small groups.

What Children Learn by Age

  • Infants (0–1 Year)

    • Responsive caregiving and secure attachment
    • Sensory and language-rich routines (including sign language)
    • Safe, clean environment; RN checks monthly
    • Early exposure to music, stories, and tummy-time exploration
  • Toddlers (1–3 Years)

    • Exploratory play and movement
    • Early language and social skills (sharing, turn-taking)
    • Fine and gross motor development
    • Beginning routines to build independence and confidence
  • Preschool & Pre-K (3.5–5 Years)

    • Early literacy and numeracy (letters, sounds, counting, writing name)
    • STEM, Spanish immersion, and hands-on projects
    • Social-emotional learning: empathy, cooperation, problem solving
    • Kindergarten readiness: following directions, group time, self-help skills
  • Kinder Prep & Pre-K Academy (T/Th/F 9–12)

    • Focused school-readiness (writing, letter/number recognition)
    • ASL and Spanish exposure
    • Affordable, structured option for families already enrolled
Baby crawling on a soft surface in Lil’ Patriots Academy infant daycare, supported by nurturing caregivers and infant program in Puyallup.
Children painting in a Pre-K classroom at Lil’ Patriots Academy, engaging in science-inspired art activities as part of the Pre-K Puyallup program. Baby playing on colorful mats at Lil’ Patriots Academy infant program, where infant sign language and early development are encouraged.

Family-Centered Assessments

At Lil’ Patriots, parents are partners in the learning process. Our teachers conduct regular developmental assessments to monitor growth in cognitive, social, and physical areas. We share updates through conferences, digital communication tools, and informal daily conversations, ensuring you always know how your child is progressing.

When we identify areas of strength or opportunities for growth, we collaborate with families to set personalized goals. This transparency builds trust and ensures that every child gets the attention, encouragement, and support they need to reach their full potential.

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Child playing at Lil' Patriots Academy 56th Ave campus in Puyallup, reflecting joyful early learning and care.
Classroom facilities at Lil' Patriots Academy 56th Ave campus in Puyallup, showcasing safe, well-equipped learning spaces.
Smiling toddler in a childcare center classroom at Lil’ Patriots Academy, highlighting infant care Puyallup and nurturing caregivers.

Inclusive, Safe & Culturally Responsive Learning

We celebrate every child’s individuality. Our teachers are trained to provide inclusive, equitable, and culturally responsive care that embraces all backgrounds and abilities. Classrooms reflect the diversity of our community through multicultural books, materials, and celebrations that help children learn empathy and respect.

Safety and cleanliness are non-negotiable. Both our Puyallup campuses feature secure entrances, perimeter cameras, and sanitized learning environments. Families can enjoy peace of mind knowing their children are learning in a space that is safe, welcoming, and designed for growth.

Toddlers and preschoolers smiling and playing together outdoors at Lil’ Patriots Academy Puyallup, showcasing the Abeka and HighScope play-based curriculum. Baby playing on colorful mats at Lil’ Patriots Academy infant program, where infant sign language and early development are encouraged.

Enrichment & Special Programs

Beyond our daily curriculum, we offer special programs that make learning even more exciting:

  • Spanish Immersion (Preschool–Pre-K): Encourages bilingual development and cultural awareness.
  • American Sign Language (Infants–Toddlers): Builds communication before verbal language develops.
  • STEM Exploration: Simple science experiments and building activities that inspire curiosity.
  • Creative Arts: Music, movement, and art to foster expression and imagination.
  • Summer Thematic Camps: Engaging, hands-on summer sessions full of discovery.
  • Daily Soccer & Outdoor Play: Promotes coordination, teamwork, and healthy movement.

These experiences build confidence and make learning joyful while reinforcing classroom concepts in a meaningful way.

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Toddler balancing outdoors at Lil’ Patriots Academy, where families can learn about child care subsidies and financial assistance in Puyallup. Preschool teacher leading outdoor play activity with children at Lil’ Patriots Academy Puyallup as part of the Abeka and HighScope blended curriculum.

Clean, Safe & Communicative

Founded by seasoned educators with over two decades of experience, Lil Patriots Academy stands as a beacon of child-centered education in Puyallup. We provide a safe and enriching environment that nurtures the whole child, emphasizing inclusivity, lifelong learning, and a personal approach in every aspect of our care. Led by a passionate team, we aim to inspire every child to reach their full potential in a supportive community setting

About Us
Teacher engaging with toddlers at Lil Patriots Academy in Puyallup, demonstrating hands-on childcare puyallup wa instruction and care.
Young children collaborating on an art project at Lil Patriots Academy in Puyallup, showcasing creative learning at this daycare puyallup wa.
Teacher reading a storybook to children during class at a Puyallup WA daycare, encouraging literacy and engagement in early learning.

Ready to see our curriculum in action?

Schedule a tour at our 176th Street or 56th Ave Puyallup campus and meet the teachers who make learning fun, structured, and purposeful. We’ll walk you through daily routines, show you our classrooms, and help you pick the right program for your child.

Schedule a Tour