Ballston Children’s Center – Trusted Daycare & Preschool in Arlington, VA
Located in the heart of Arlington’s Ballston / Virginia Square neighborhood, Ballston Children’s Center offers a warm, stable, and educational environment for children ages 2.5 to 5 years old. Our experienced teachers—averaging 15 years of tenure—provide consistency and care that parents trust. Families love our bright, spacious classrooms designed to spark curiosity and support early learning. Children enjoy nutritious meals, creative activities in our full-size Cafeteria/Activities Center, and confidence-building performances on our dedicated stage. At Ballston Children’s Center, we combine nurturing care with enriching programs to help every child learn, grow, and thrive.
Our children spend a lot of time outdoors at the playground, which is large, shaded with trees, and has equipment with a variety of structures.
Our Educational Program develops skills and concepts that prepare children for kindergarten.
The children learn through playing, working on a variety of projects and activities. We have a well-balanced curriculum of activities that introduce early math, explore reading, writing, language arts, comprehension skills, fine and gross motor skills, and social skills. The Spanish Enrichment Program is a part of our daily learning through play and discovery. In addition to academic development, we enrich our program with a variety of activities such as: Yoga for kids, Dance class, Gym time, Library time, pre-K virtual classes, and more. Two months of The Summer Program is full of fun and entertaining.
At Ballston Children’s Center, we have created a safe environment of care, love, support, and respect. Our day is filled with play and learning. Our experienced, educated, professional, dedicated, and responsible staff will take care of your child. Your child will flourish socially, emotionally, and intellectually in our Center. Our teachers promote social development by helping the children to get along with each other, teaching them mutual respect, appreciating cultural and ethnic diversity, and encouraging children to work independently. Our average tenure for the teaching staff at our Center is 15 years, ranging from at least 6 years up to 20 years.
OUR PROGRAM - CURRICULUM - ACTIVITIES
Your child will actively participate in all aspects of our program.
CREATIVE ACTIVITIES
Our daily activities are thoughtfully designed to engage children in a wide range of learning experiences, including art, music, crafts, language arts, math, reading, writing, science, social development, and both fine and gross motor skills. We foster a creative and supportive environment that encourages children to: solve problems creatively, explore and redefine situations, demonstrate flexibility and adaptability, be curious and adventurous in their learning. Our goal is to nurture each child’s imagination and promote a love of learning through hands-on, playful, and meaningful activities.
FUN PROJECTS
We regularly engage children in a variety of educational projects that spark curiosity and creativity. Using diverse art media and hands-on materials, children are encouraged to explore, experiment, and express themselves freely. These projects not only support artistic development but also help each child grow in confidence as a unique and creative individual.
SPANISH ENRICHMENT PROGRAM
All children participate in activities that naturally integrate Spanish language into their routines. What makes our program special? Our bilingual, native Spanish-speaking teachers introduce Spanish words and phrases to the children through stories, songs, games and imaginative plays in a fun and meaningful way. The program sets the foundation for bilingual fluency.
YOGA FOR KIDS
We introduce traditional yoga techniques in a playful, simple, and calming way—perfect for young learners. Our yoga sessions include: fun and gentle poses, interactive games, breathing exercises, singing and counting activities. These sessions help children develop body awareness, focus, flexibility, and a sense of calm—all while having fun!
Ballston Children's Center was named Best Daycare and Preschool for 2021, 2022, 2023 and again for 2024 by Northern Virginia Magazine.
DANCE CLASS
Dancing offers countless benefits for children. It enhances flexibility, coordination, rhythm, balance, posture, range of motion, stamina, muscle tone, and strength. Beyond physical benefits, dance also promotes self-discipline, confidence, and a deep appreciation for music. Through learning choreography, children strengthen their cognitive abilities and memory skills—all while having fun. Our exquisite stage provides the perfect space for young dancers to shine and express themselves with joy.
GYM CLASS
A physically active child is a healthy child! During Gym Time, your child will jump, spin, hop like a frog, crawl like a crab, do jumping jacks, jog in place, balance on one foot, tumble, stretch, and enjoy the workout of a lifetime. It’s all about building strength, coordination, and confidence—while having tons of fun!
LIBRARY TIME
Children love books—and reading is fun! Each week, your child will visit our library, where stories come to life. Books are read to the children daily, helping develop fluency, vocabulary, comprehension, phonics, and more. Interactive storytime performances on our stage make reading an exciting and engaging experience!
PRE-K VIRTUAL CLASS ACTIVITIES
This class is designed specifically for Pre-K children to help them learn how to engage and follow instructions in a virtual setting, especially when they are unable to attend in person. Virtual learning is not meant to replicate the classroom experience—it’s designed to thoughtfully extend it. Through interactive online activities, children continue to build skills, stay connected, and enjoy meaningful learning from wherever they are.
OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES
Weather permitting, the children spend time at the playground each morning and afternoon. Our playground is a vibrant space where we host parties, picnics, nature projects, egg hunts, circle time, art classes, games, and many other fun and engaging activities.
SUMMER CAMP
Summer Camp is all about fun, creativity, and unforgettable memories! Each day features a playful and engaging theme—like kite flying, origami, circus performing, cooking, jewelry making, and more. Children enjoy water play, gardening, fitness activities, and exciting shows by special guest entertainers including magicians, musicians, puppeteers, dancers, clowns, and singers. It’s a summer filled with laughter, learning, and discovery!
MEALS
We provide well-balanced, nutritious meals to support your child's growth and energy throughout the day. Breakfast, morning and afternoon snacks are included in the tuition and feature wholesome options such as fresh fruits, dairy, whole grains, 2% milk, 100% juice, and herbal tea. Hot lunches are available through a catering service for an additional cost. Parents may also choose to provide a nutritious lunch from home.
PROGRAM FOR OLDER SIBLINGS AND FORMER STUDENTS
This program is specially designed for the older siblings of currently enrolled students as well as our former students. It provides a structured and engaging environment during times when elementary schools are closed for vacations, teacher workshops, or similar non-weather-related closures.
