FAQs

What makes Willow & Wonder Academy different from other supplemental or microschool programs? 

Willow & Wonder Academy is a one-of-a-kind blend of a homeschool hybrid and enrichment program, designed for families seeking something truly different from the traditional school system. We don’t replicate school here. Instead, we offer a gentle, flexible, and child-centered approach that honors each child’s natural curiosity and individual rhythm. 

Our days are rooted in play, exploration, and connection, not rigid schedules or standardized expectations. With small group sizes and a warm, family-like atmosphere, children are free to grow socially, emotionally, and cognitively at their own pace. Drawing from my background as a qualified educator, I’ve created an environment where children feel safe, seen, and inspired to become confident, joyful lifelong learners.

What qualifications and training do your educators have? 

At Willow & Wonder Academy, our educators are experienced, qualified, and deeply rooted in child development and play-based learning. We prioritize a whole-child approach, blending strong academic foundations with social-emotional development and wellness-informed practices.

As the founder and lead educator, I hold a bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education and Special Education, along with an ESL endorsement, and maintain current teaching certifications for the subjects and age groups offered within the program.

Beyond formal credentials, I am deeply committed to ongoing learning and growth. I regularly engage with current research in learning science, child development, mental health, and wellness, and am continually seeking out new knowledge, trainings, and perspectives to better support the children and families I serve. This commitment to lifelong learning is woven into the heart of Willow & Wonder.

As our program grows, all educators will be thoughtfully selected and aligned with the values, philosophy, and approach that define Willow & Wonder. Every educator is chosen with care, ensuring each child continues to feel known, supported, and inspired to love learning.

What is your class size? 

We maintain a small class size to ensure that each child receives the individualized attention they need. Our multi-age groups are capped at 16 students. Our teacher-to-student ratio will never exceed 1:10, which allows for personalized care and instruction in a supportive, intimate setting. Please note, the actual class size may vary from year to year based on factors such as enrollment, the age group being served, and the unique needs of the children. For instance, younger age groups or classes requiring more individualized support may have fewer children to ensure a quality experience. Please reach out directly if you'd like to know the current class size for this school year. 

What is your approach to learning and development? 

We embrace a play-based learning model that nurtures each child’s individual learning style and pace. Our child-led, inquiry-based curriculum encourages children to explore, discover, and learn through hands-on play and meaningful experiences. This approach empowers children to take ownership of their learning, fostering growth in all areas: cognitive, social, emotional, and physical, while also promoting curiosity, creativity, and a lifelong love of learning.

Is Willow & Wonder a faith-based program? 

While Willow & Wonder is not affiliated with any specific denomination or church, our program is built around values deeply rooted in Christ-like principles: kindness, integrity, compassion, and being a light in the world. I strive to create a nurturing, inclusive environment where all children, regardless of faith background or belief, feel loved, valued, and encouraged to grow into their fullest potential. Our focus is on building a community where every child is supported and empowered to explore, learn, and thrive in a safe and welcoming space. 

Do you incorporate field trips into the program? 

Yes! Field trips are an exciting part of our curriculum, thoughtfully woven into our unit studies to enhance learning. Some are offered at no cost, while others are available at a discounted field trip rate. These hands-on experiences provide real-world connections to academic topics and foster exploration, teamwork, and curiosity.

Are there pets at Willow & Wonder Academy?

Yes! Willow & Wonder Academy is a pet-friendly learning environment. As part of our cozy, home-based setting, friendly animals (such as cats or a dog) may be present from time to time.

If your child has a known allergy, please be sure to let us know. Should you choose to enroll, we will do our best to limit direct exposure and make reasonable accommodations to support your child’s comfort and safety, while understanding that we cannot guarantee a completely animal-free environment.

What age groups or grade levels do you serve? 

Our program currently serves children ages 4–10, with thoughtful flexibility on either end. Families of children just under age 4 may be invited to complete a readiness screener to help ensure a smooth transition. Our hands-on, play-based approach supports whole-child development and builds a strong foundation for lifelong learning. As we grow, we plan to expand one year at a time into upper elementary grades.

How do you group students in your program?

At Willow & Wonder Academy, we take a unique approach to grouping that honors the whole child. Instead of following strict grade levels, we thoughtfully combine mixed-age groupings with ability-based learning. This means students are grouped based on where they are developmentally and academically, not just by their birth year.

Research shows that mixed-age learning supports stronger collaboration, leadership, and peer modeling. Older students build confidence and empathy, while younger learners benefit from rich language exposure and scaffolding. We also take care to consider emotional maturity and social compatibility, especially during play and group projects, so each child feels supported and at ease.

This intentional grouping structure helps us meet each child right where they are, fostering a more personalized, connected, and meaningful learning experience.

How do you ensure my child’s needs are met? 

We take a personalized approach to learning, recognizing each child’s unique strengths and challenges. Through close observation and a flexible curriculum, we provide support and encouragement so every child can thrive at their own pace in an environment where they feel valued and empowered.

At this stage, we may not have the resources to fully support moderate to severe needs requiring intensive or one-on-one interventions. However, we work closely with families during admissions to understand each child’s learning profile and determine whether our current program is the best fit.

Is there a graduation ceremony at Willow & Wonder Academy?

Our program is deeply rooted in a child-centered, purposeful, and intentional approach to learning and growth. Instead of a traditional graduation ceremony, which often feels more focused on parents and can sometimes bring up unnecessary nerves or anxiety for children, we host a moving up celebration during our end-of-the-year party.

This celebration includes every student, no matter their age or stage of growth. It honors each child’s unique journey, giving all students the chance to reflect on their accomplishments, share memories, and feel proud of their progress in a joyful and relaxed environment alongside their families. Everyone moves forward together, celebrated for exactly where they are.

What is the schedule like for your program? 

Our program follows a consistent daily rhythm while allowing for flexibility based on the needs of each year’s group of learners. Core microschool hours are typically held in the morning and early afternoon, with small, mixed-age cohorts designed to support connection and individualized learning.

Each year, specific schedules and groupings are thoughtfully arranged based on enrollment, ages, and the overall dynamic of the group. For the 2025–2026 school year, our core microschool program runs Tuesday through Thursday, with a 4–5-year-old cohort from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM and a 6–10-year-old cohort from 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM. In addition, we offer optional enrichment opportunities, allowing families to customize their child’s experience. For the most current schedule and program offerings, please reach out directly or visit the Schedule section of our website.

How do your enrichment and core programs differ? 

Our Enrichment Clubs consist of themed, hands-on specialty workshops such as STEM, cooking, logic games, and early literacy. These classes require additional preparation, materials, and specialized instruction. Enrichment classes are flexible. Families can choose to enroll in as many or as few as they like.

In contrast, our microschool program offers consistent, small-group learning with flexibility to choose from 2–4 days a week. It’s grounded in connection, playful exploration, and whole-child development. This foundational program focuses on nurturing social-emotional skills, building essential academic foundations, and fostering a close-knit community.

Both programs are separate by design but naturally complement each other. Families who choose to join both provide their children even more opportunities to explore, play, and grow without the need for a full-day commitment.

How can I enroll my child at Willow & Wonder Academy? 

To begin the application process for your child, please head over to the application & enrollment page [here] and follow the steps to apply!