• Welcome to TWS

    Welcome to The Wonder Schoolhouse (TWS), where we redefine early childhood education for students ages1-6. Unlike traditional childcare centers, we are a school at our core, committed to fostering intellectual and emotional growth through our unique blend of S.T.E.A.M.-based curriculum and a combination of Reggio-Emilia and Montessori methodologies.

    As a year-round program, we provide continuous learning opportunities, ensuring that children grow and thrive in a consistent, nurturing environment throughout all seasons.

  • What Makes TWS Different?

    What sets TWS apart is our holistic approach to education. We enrich children’s learning experience with extracurricular activities taught by professionals, such as yoga, music, and science workshops. Our dedication to building a strong community shines through our monthly family events, creating meaningful connections between families and staff. Transparency is our cornerstone—we provide hourly updates through the Brightwheel app, ensuring parents feel informed and connected every step of the way.

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Frequently Asked Questions

  • Parents consistently highlight the attentive staff, impactful learning, and the thriving environment. One parent shared, “We love how much outside time our child gets and how much they’re learning every day.”

    • Preschoolers participate in hands-on learning through "Kindy Prep" classes and dedicated "Practice Play/Mat Time." Their day also includes enrichment curriculum activities like science experiments, art projects, and themed lessons that foster creativity and critical thinking.

    • 1-Year-Olds engage in small group activities where they are introduced to foundational concepts like circle time and interactive lessons. Teachers guide them in learning how to use play materials purposefully, fostering their natural curiosity and teaching them how to learn through play.

    • 2-Year-Olds are prepared for preschool with a focus on social-emotional learning (SEL), verbal communication, and negotiation skills. We also support them through potty training and nurture early reading, language, and math skills in a developmentally appropriate manner.

    Wonder Parents appreciate how our approach blends structured activities with flexibility to meet the unique needs of each child, all while fostering a love of learning and play.

  • Our teacher tenure is excellent, thanks to our low student-to-teacher ratios and competitive pay. We pay our teachers 40% above market rates, ensuring a stable and dedicated team to care for and educate your children.

  • We maintain low student-to-teacher ratios to ensure personalized attention for each child.

    • 1 YO Class: 1:5

    • 2 YO Class: 1:7

    • Preschool: 1:9

    We also don’t over enroll our classes meaning the ratios are our absolute maximums. Additionally, a dedicated floater teacher is available to provide extra support to classrooms as needed, ensuring a smooth and enriching experience for all children.

  • Our tuition starts at $725 per month and can be up to $1,600 depending on needs. Prices vary by age group and attendance schedule.

    • 1-year-olds: Starting at $775 for part-time schedules.

    • 2-year-olds: Starting at $725 for part-time schedules.

    • 3-5-year-olds: Starting at $725 for part-time schedules.

    • School-aged children (5+): Starting at $575 for part-time schedules.

    • Deposit is non-refundable and is $250. We also charge a $75 annual supply fee.

  • Starting your child’s journey of wonder is easy! All of our paperwork is sent online.

    We encourage a gradual transition, offering parent-and-child observation sessions and personalized support. Using our drop-off routine (SKILL: Squeeze, Kiss, "I love you," Look, Leave) has been a game-changer for many families.

    • Health & Wellness: All children must have up-to-date immunizations unless exempt. Children with contagious illnesses are asked to stay home, ensuring a healthy environment for all.

    • Behavior Guidance: We teach empathy, social-emotional learning (SEL), and accountability through consistent corrective actions and positive reinforcement. Our teachers work closely with parents to support behavioral growth.

    • Safety Measures: Our facilities feature state-of-the-art security systems, including restricted access during school hours and regular playground safety checks. Additionally, all staff are trained in CPR and first aid and are background checked.

    • Parent Communication: The Brightwheel app is used to keep parents informed with hourly updates, photos, and messages. Parents also receive immediate alerts for any urgent updates.

  • We use the Brightwheel app for hourly updates, photos, curriculum details, and immediate notifications.

    We send out weekly and monthly newsletters. We also prioritize parent involvement with monthly community field trips. Many parents made incredible friendships through our program!

  • Weekly yoga, music, dance, and science events foster well-rounded development.

  • We prioritize outdoor play whenever weather permits (twice a day!), with guidelines to ensure safety and comfort.

  • We collaborate closely with parents, supporting milestones and addressing regressions with care. We use the “Oh, Crap! Potty Training Method” to ensure success.

Testimonials from our Monthly Surveys

"We love Miss Lily! She is so kind and calming!"

"We love how much outside time he gets and love our teachers, especially Hannah!"

"We love Miss Lily! She is so kind and calming!" "We love how much outside time he gets and love our teachers, especially Hannah!"

"The learning and growth we’ve seen in the last year is magical! The whole team is incredible, and we’re so thankful for the care Max receives every day."

"We are so thrilled and grateful to have such a thriving and stimulating environment at TWS. The thought that goes into planning each week makes it such a special place!"

"The learning and growth we’ve seen in the last year is magical! The whole team is incredible, and we’re so thankful for the care Max receives every day." "We are so thrilled and grateful to have such a thriving and stimulating environment at TWS. The thought that goes into planning each week makes it such a special place!"

"We love all the notes Alyssa sends about our child’s day! The lessons they work on at school are clearly reflected at home."

"Miss Lily sending me messages during my workday to honestly let me know how Freya is doing has allowed me to focus on work peacefully. I’m so grateful!"

"We love all the notes Alyssa sends about our child’s day! The lessons they work on at school are clearly reflected at home." "Miss Lily sending me messages during my workday to honestly let me know how Freya is doing has allowed me to focus on work peacefully. I’m so grateful!"

"Our kid loves coming to school and is always talking about how Miss Maddie helps her. Thank you so much for taking such good care of my little princess!"

"We were a part of the Montessori school transition, and I can’t tell you how pleased we have been with the whole process. Selva and Maddie truly care about the quality of care these children receive."

"Our kid loves coming to school and is always talking about how Miss Maddie helps her. Thank you so much for taking such good care of my little princess!" "We were a part of the Montessori school transition, and I can’t tell you how pleased we have been with the whole process. Selva and Maddie truly care about the quality of care these children receive."

"Our daughter’s language has exploded recently. Thanks to the Little Wonder teachers!"

"The Brightwheel app and the staff communication are amazing. I always know what our child is doing and the kind of day he is having. If there are any issues, we know about it immediately and can respond appropriately."

"Our daughter’s language has exploded recently. Thanks to the Little Wonder teachers!" "The Brightwheel app and the staff communication are amazing. I always know what our child is doing and the kind of day he is having. If there are any issues, we know about it immediately and can respond appropriately."

The Wonder Schoolhouse Center | Ages 1-6 | 181 E 8960 S

  • A Sanctuary for Learning

  • STEAM Curriculum

  • Montessori Meets Reggio

  • Individual Expression

  • Small Ratios

  • Play Based Learning

  • Child Led, Teacher Guided.

  • Small Groups and Teacher to Child Ratios

  • Cozy Classrooms

  • Vast Outdoor Space

  • Explore & Play

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TWS Mini | Ages 3-6 | 202 E 8800 S, Sandy UT

  • Entrance

  • Art Studio

  • Quiet Room

  • Story Nook

  • Science & Cooking Lab

  • Common Area

  • Inside Out Room

  • Classroom

  • Outside Play Area

  • Outside Play Area

  • Sand Pit

  • Homemade Food

  • Over 400 Books

  • Quinn Reynolds - Parent

    “My son just started here a few months ago, and we love it. The teachers have been wonderful with him, it’s so refreshing to receive pictures and updates throughout the day. The owner is attentive, caring, and knowledgeable, which really adds to our confidence in the school. We’re so glad we found this place for our 1-year-old! :)”

  • Cassidy Barlow - Parent

    “My daughter has been going here for 10 months now and it has been the best decision ever to enroll her here. We had her enrolled somewhere else (deposit down and everything) but toured this school and knew this is where our daughter needed to be. She has learned so much since being at the Wonder School House and has made best friends.”

  • Jenna Barrington - Parent

    “We chose Wonder Schoolhouse first because they were willing to help with potty training our stubborn 3-year-old, where other early education programs don’t allow toddlers who aren’t fully independent with toileting! We’ve been grateful for the team at this school everyday for creating a safe, fun, and loving environment for our son. They work tirelessly and passionately for their students and are committed to evidence-based methods. We also appreciate the diversity here, which can be hard to find in Utah!! They’re also so loving towards our LGBTQ family and unique dynamics with coparenting in two households. We feel supported and have so much respect for the owner Selva and her assistant director Maddie. Our son adores his teachers and his friends and has made so much progress!!”

  • Bethany O'Neil - Parent

    “Every aspect of this little school has been a wonderful surprise. Our daughter adores school, she eats with gusto, she loves her friends, she takes good naps and she is learning so many amazing things. We are shocked at how well our daughter has taken to the experience.”

  • Leslie Shipler - Grandparent

    “My granddaughter Gracie has been attending this school. Selva has been so amazing and Gracie truly loves going to school. She never wants to leave because she has so much fun!”

  • Saidhbhin Killion - Parent

    “This school is amazing! It was my first time sending my daughter to daycare and I was terrified. They send picture updates through out the entire day. My daughter is always happy at pick up & has nothing but good things to say about it! I totally recommend this place!🤎”

  • Maddie Beckstead - Asst. Director & Parent

    “I started working for The Wonder Schoolhouse in October of 2023, and it’s one of the absolute best decisions i’ve ever made. I absolutely adore going to work everyday, and I love being able to create these in depth lesson plans and be able to create bonds with each individual child. My own daughter is starting here in July and i couldn’t be happier!! (i am one of THOSE moms and don’t trust anyone with my baby, but absolutely trust her here!) she loves her teachers and so do i! working here is such a joy everyday!!”

  • Alyssa Powell - Teacher and Parent

    “I have had the pleasure of working at The Wonder Schoolhouse for only a few months now, and I couldn't be more grateful for this experience. The environment here is truly nurturing, both for the children and the staff. It's so rewarding to work in a space where every child’s unique needs and growth are prioritized, and the atmosphere is always positive, creative, and welcoming…

    It’s rare to find an employer who is so attuned to the well-being and development of their team, and that’s one of the many reasons I love being part of the Wonder School family. If you're looking for a place where children thrive and employees are respected and supported, I highly recommend The Wonder Schoolhouse!”

  • Hannah Skiba - Asst. Director

    “I’ve worked here for a year now and have LOVED it!”

  • Lily Fielding - Toddler Teacher

    “I’ve been working at TWS since April and have adored every second of it!”

  • Rachel Holladay - Toddler Teacher

    “I work with the tots and will be working at the new location until I leave in August to live in Oregon! If there is something I should leave with you, it’s that Selva will be your best friend. She is an advocate for her girls and genuinely the best boss I’ve ever had.”

Parent Satisfaction

Every month we ask our parents to rate us on a scale of 1-5. Here are the results of our parent satisfaction surveys.

☆Parent Satisfaction☆

Why Choose The Wonder Childcare Programs?

  • Small Ratios

    As a part of The Wonder Childcare Programs’ comprehensive approach to education, we make sure that all children have the chance to have one on one time with their teachers and caregivers. We are an exclusive daycare licensed to have a limited number of littles. We offer toddler, preschool, and pre-k programs. Our students enjoy a warm home-like environment while receiving top-quality education and care.

  • Enrichment and Extracurricular Activities

    At The Wonder Schoolhouse, we are committed to nurturing well-rounded development in our young learners through a variety of enriching extracurricular activities.

    Each first week of the month, we offer mindfulness classes led by a professional yoga teacher, helping children develop emotional regulation, focus, and physical flexibility. During the second week, our professional music teacher conducts engaging music classes, which foster auditory skills, rhythm, and creativity. The third week brings lively dance lessons from a skilled dance instructor, promoting physical coordination, self-expression, and confidence. Finally, every fourth week, we host an exciting science event designed to spark curiosity, enhance problem-solving abilities, and instill a love for exploration.

    These diverse activities collectively contribute to the holistic growth of our students, ensuring they thrive both academically and personally.

  • Reggio and Montessori Inspired

    Our intentionally designed spaces are Reggio and Montessori inspired completed with our personal touch. They are full of light and natural elements. Our outdoor playgrounds are nature-based. Getting messy is highly encouraged!

    We strive to foster independence, individuality, and resilience in children in our care. In these crucial formative years of their life, they have the unique opportunity to develop and grow healthy habits which they will bring with them well into adulthood.

  • Toddler Learning

    The Wonder Schoolhouse's toddler education program, where personalized attention and a nurturing environment are the cornerstones of our philosophy. With a low student-to-teacher ratio of 5:1, each child receives individualized care and instruction tailored to their unique needs and developmental pace. Our classrooms are designed to captivate young minds, featuring vibrant learning stations, interactive sensory play areas, and a variety of age-appropriate educational materials. The structured schedule keeps toddlers engaged throughout the day with a balanced mix of activities, including story time, creative arts, and hands-on learning time. Outdoor play is an integral part of our program, providing opportunities for physical development, nature exploration, and social interaction in our secure, well-equipped playground. Incorporating Montessori elements, our curriculum fosters independence and curiosity, guiding toddlers through self-directed learning and practical life skills that build a strong foundation for future education.

  • PreK Program

    The Wonder Schoolhouse's Pre-K education program, where personalized attention and an engaging environment create a perfect foundation for your child's early learning journey. With a low student-to-teacher ratio, each toddler receives the individualized care and guidance they need to thrive. Our classrooms are designed to captivate young minds, featuring vibrant learning stations, interactive play areas, and a variety of hands-on activities. Our structured schedule seamlessly blends academic learning with exploratory play, ensuring preschoolers remain engaged and curious throughout the day. One of our most beloved initiatives is the annual outside unit, where we transform into a nature school, allowing children to explore the great outdoors and foster a deeper connection with the natural world. Incorporating Montessori elements into our curriculum, we emphasize self-directed activity, hands-on learning, and collaborative play, aiding in the holistic development of each child.

  • Kindergarten

    Coming soon…

Our Team

  • Selva Strickland - Founder

    An attorney by trade, Selva found her own path to teaching. With extensive experience in childcare and dedication to Early Childhood Education, Selva quit her legal career to pursue her true passion. She taught English to children between the ages of 2 and 12 in Istanbul, Turkey where she was born. She moved to the United States in 2015 and had the opportunity to open her own preschool daycare after a career in marketing. She is excited to get back into what she was always meant to do, creating a safe and nurturing environment for littles.

  • Hannah Skiba - Assistant Director

    Hannah serves as the Assistant Director at The Wonder Schoolhouse Preschool. Originally from Arizona, she initially pursued studies in Digital Marketing and Content Creation. However, her true passion was discovered in the realm of early childhood education. Hannah is renowned for her exceptional capacity for love, care, and empathy towards her young students. She particularly enjoys engaging in collaborative art projects, fostering creativity and teamwork among the children.

  • Maddie Beckstead - Assistant Director

    Miss Maddie is the Assistant Director at The Wonder Schoolhouse 181. She is a natural leader in the classroom and loves teaching! She also takes part in local theaters and brings her love for entertaining to the classroom. Maddie is a mom herself and she is known for her communication skills and her empathy for parents. She loves sending photos and videos through the Brightwheel app and is always communicating with families throughout the day. Maddie has spent years working with children in various capacities, finding true fulfillment in nurturing young minds. Her deep love for kids stems from her belief that she was born to nurture little minds. She is passionate about the power of positive affirmations, using them daily to inspire and uplift both herself and those around her.

  • Yury Murcia - Lead Teacher

    Yury Murcia is a passionate teacher with eight years of experience educating children aged 3 to 9. Originally from Bogotá, Colombia, she holds a Bachelor's Degree in Spanish and English Language and has specialized training in Montessori psychopedagogy, sensory development, and language and math education. Her teaching philosophy focuses on positive reinforcement to create strong connections and a supportive learning environment. Outside the classroom, Yury enjoys hiking with her two dogs and values fostering curiosity and a love for nature in her students. She is excited to welcome her first child and continue inspiring young learners.

  • Saryssa Herrera - Teacher

    Originally from California, with a degree in Educational Studies from an Arizona college, Saryssa finds joy both in the classroom and outdoors. Passionate about teaching, she loves watching children express themselves, grow into their unique personalities, and thrive through learning and creativity.

  • Alyssa Powell - Twos Lead Teacher

    With a background in Physiology & Neuroscience from UC San Diego, Alyssa has dedicated over 7 years to childcare, including 3 years as a certified Montessori teacher specializing in Infants, Toddlers, and Twos. She holds First Aid/CPR certification and am currently working towards her Child Development Associate (CDA) credential. In her free time, she enjoys exploring Utah and discovering fun activities for her sweet daughter!

  • Cecilia Merino - Twos Teacher

  • Lily Fielding - Lead Teacher

    Lily is a lead teacher for our Little Wonders Classroom and is a dynamic and dedicated educator. Her passion for working with children began in middle school as a babysitter, inspired by caring for her nieces and nephew. Lily has been working professionally in childcare since June 2023. Known for their leadership, patience, problem-solving skills, and team-oriented attitude, they excel in nurturing young minds. Outside of work, they enjoy camping, reading, and spending time with family and friends.

  • Bhuvaneswari SivaSubramanian - Teacher

    Bhuvana recently moved to the USA, in July 2023. Originally from India, she began her career as a kindergarten teacher in 2006 after completing her graduation. In 2009, she got married and soon became a mother to two wonderful children, a boy and a girl. After taking a 10-year break to focus on her family, Bhuvana returned to teaching in 2021, where she skillfully handled 2nd and 5th-grade students.

  • Lydia Belle - Floater

    Lydia is a creative and active individual with a passion for crafting, painting, and staying fit. She enjoys spending time outdoors, whether hiking, exploring nature, or simply savoring the fresh air. Her journey into childcare began with classes in high school, followed by experience as a nanny for multiple families and work at several daycares, where she discovered her true love for teaching children. As a mom of two, Lydia is deeply committed to fostering a nurturing and fun environment where kids can learn, grow, and thrive.

  • Josie Richardson - Teacher

    Josie works at The Wonder Schoolhouse Preschool and Tinies location and is currently pursuing a degree in Special Education with a focus on Autism Studies at UVU. Her future plans include attending law school to become a family lawyer. Josie loves working with children, watching them grow, and creating fun art projects and activities that inspire their creativity and development.

  • Ava Stephens - Teacher

Schedule a Tour

info@thewonderschoolhouse.com
+1 801-513-3231

202 E 8800 S
Sandy, UT 84070

181 E 8960 S

Sandy, UT 84070