Scroll below and discover what Wildflowers is all about!

OUR SERVICES

MISSION STATEMENT

CURRICULUM

MEET THE TEAM

UPCOMING EVENTS

SUPPORT US

FAQS

 

Interested in joining our Wildflowers family?
Fill out some information below, and we’ll contact you shortly!
We can’t wait to learn more about you and your little one!

Rooted in Love, Growing with Joy

Our Interest Form is linked below through Brightwheel.

Filling out this form does not guarantee enrollment, but it ensures you're added to our contact list for upcoming openings, tours, and enrollment opportunities. Once submitted, a member of our team will reach out to follow up and answer any questions you may have.

Our Services

Our infant program provides a warm, nurturing environment where babies (6 weeks to 18 months) can grow and thrive. Through gentle care, sensory exploration, and strong caregiver bonds, we support each child's early development at their own pace. With cozy spaces, engaging activities, and close communication with families, we help every little wildflower bloom beautifully.

Our toddler program (18 months to 3 years) encourages active exploration, creativity, and independence. Toddlers build early language, social skills, and confidence in a safe and supportive environment through hands-on learning, music, art, and play. Every day is a new adventure as we help our little wildflowers grow strong roots for a lifelong love of learning.

Our preschool Program (ages 3–5) nurtures a love of learning through play, exploration, and creativity. We focus on building early literacy, math, social, and problem-solving skills in a fun, hands-on environment. With a balance of structured activities and child-led discovery, we prepare each little wildflower for a bright and confident transition to kindergarten.

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Mission Statement

At Wildflowers Daycare, we believe that every child is unique, just like wildflowers. Our philosophy revolves around fostering individuality, creativity, and holistic development. We aim to create a warm and inviting space that encourages exploration and learning through play, while also respecting each child's unique journey.

We strive to provide a safe, nurturing, and enriching environment where children feel valued and supported as they grow and develop at their own pace.

More Information

  • Description text goes herOur educational philosophy is inspired by child-led and play-based learning models such as Montessori and Reggio Emilia, with a focus on:

    Individuality and Inclusion – Every child is valued for their unique abilities and learning style.
    Hands-On Learning – Children learn best through direct experiences and exploration.
    Creativity and Imagination – Open-ended play and creative projects are encouraged daily.
    Emotional and Social Growth – We teach children how to express feelings, resolve conflicts, and build friendships.
    Nature and Environmental Awareness – Outdoor play and nature-based activities are integrated into daily routines.
    Parent and Community Partnerships – Building trust and collaboration with families and the local community.e

  • At Wildflowers Daycare, we follow a Montessori-inspired approach to early childhood education.
    The Montessori method is based on the philosophy that children learn best through hands-on experiences, independent exploration, and self-directed learning in a thoughtfully prepared environment.

    In our Montessori classrooms, you will find:

    • Child-sized materials and furniture that encourage independence and responsibility.

    • Hands-on learning activities that develop practical life skills, early math, language, science, and sensory awareness.

    • Freedom within limits, allowing children to choose their work while learning respect for themselves, others, and the environment.

    • Individualized learning, where teachers observe each child's interests and development and gently guide them to the next challenge when they are ready.

    Our goal is to foster confidence, curiosity, critical thinking, and a lifelong love of learning — nurturing every child's unique potential.
    At Wildflowers Daycare, we believe that with the right support, every child will blossom beautifully at their own pace.

  • At Wildflowers Daycare, we embrace the Reggio Emilia approach to early childhood education, which views children as capable, curious, and full of potential. This philosophy encourages learning through exploration, creativity, and collaboration, allowing each child to guide their own educational journey.

    Key elements of our Reggio Emilia-inspired curriculum include:

    • Child-Centered Exploration: Children are encouraged to pursue their interests, fostering a love for learning through self-directed activities.​

    • Project-Based Learning: Long-term projects emerge from children's questions and ideas, promoting deep engagement and critical thinking.​

    • The Hundred Languages of Children: We support multiple forms of expression—such as art, music, movement, and storytelling—enabling children to communicate their understanding in diverse ways.​

    • Environment as the Third Teacher: Our thoughtfully designed spaces inspire curiosity and interaction, reinforcing the connection between the child and their surroundings.​

    • Collaborative Relationships: Teachers, children, and families work together, creating a community that values shared learning and mutual respect.​

    By integrating these principles, Wildflowers Daycare provides a nurturing environment where children can thrive, developing confidence, creativity, and a lifelong passion for discovery.

Meet the Team

At Wildflowers Daycare, we believe that behind every thriving child is a team of educators who nurture, inspire, and encourage them each step of the way.
Our teachers are passionate, experienced, and dedicated to providing a safe, joyful, and supportive environment where every child can bloom.

We are proud to introduce the heart of Wildflowers Daycare — our amazing team!

  • Hi, I’m Paige Henningsen! Caring for and teaching young children has always been my passion, especially during those important early years. I earned my Associate of Science in Early Childhood Education from Northern State University, and since then, I’ve been dedicated to creating nurturing, supportive environments where infants can grow, explore, and thrive.

    Over the years, I’ve had the joy of working as a Lead Infant and Two-Year-Old Teacher at Journey Kids Daycare and Learning Academy, as well as gaining experience in the infant room at Montessori School of Aberdeen and observing at the NSU Preschool and Bethesda Learning Academy. Each opportunity has deepened my belief that responsive caregiving and individualized attention make all the difference in a child’s early development.

    In my classroom, every baby is treated like family. I love building strong relationships with both the children and their families, creating care routines that meet each child’s unique needs and celebrating every milestone—big or small. Watching little ones discover the world around them is truly the best part of what I do!

    I’m so excited to bring my love for early childhood education to Wildflowers Daycare and to help every little one blossom into their full potential.

    • Associate of Science (AS) – Early Childhood Education, Northern State University

    • CPR and First Aid Certification – Infant, Child, and Adult

    • Safe Sleep Training Certification

    • Mandated Reporter Training

    • Medication Administration Training (MAT)

    • Health and Safety Training

    • Shaken Baby Syndrome/Abusive Head Trauma Prevention Training

    • Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) Prevention Training

    • Food Handler Certification

    • Infectious Disease Prevention Training

    • Emergency Preparedness and Response Training

    • Positive Behavior Support and Guidance Training

    • Montessori Infant/Toddler Overview Training

    • South Dakota State-Required Orientation Training

    • Professional Development Hours in Early Childhood Development

  • Hi, I’m McKenzie Harms! Working with young children and supporting their growth has always been my greatest passion. I graduated from South Dakota State University with a Bachelor of Science in Early Childhood Education (specializing in Birth through 4th Grade) along with a Special Education Endorsement. I also hold an Associate of Science in Human Development and Family Studies, giving me a strong foundation in both child development and family engagement.

    I have five years of experience as a Lead Toddler Teacher at Peace Lutheran Church and School, where I specialized in creating play-based learning environments that support children’s emotional, social, and cognitive development. I’ve also had the joy of working as a Primary Teacher at the Montessori School of Aberdeen, at the SDSU Preschool Lab, and at the Children’s Museum of South Dakota—each experience reinforcing my belief that learning should be hands-on, joyful, and child-led.

    I bring strengths in curriculum planning, behavior guidance, and building strong partnerships with families. At Wildflowers Daycare, I’m committed to creating a welcoming, nurturing space where every child feels seen, valued, and encouraged to grow at their own pace—just like a wildflower.

    • Bachelor of Science (BS) – Early Childhood Education (Birth–4th Grade), South Dakota State University

    • Special Education Endorsement, South Dakota State University

    • Associate of Science (AS) – Human Development and Family Studies, South Dakota State University

    • CPR and First Aid Certification – Infant, Child, and Adult

    • Child Abuse and Neglect Mandated Reporter Training

    • Health and Safety Training (state licensing requirement)

    • Safe Sleep Practices for Infants Training

    • Shaken Baby Syndrome/Abusive Head Trauma Prevention Training

    • Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) Prevention Training

    • Positive Behavior Guidance and Support Training

    • Inclusive Practices for Children with Special Needs (linked to Special Education Endorsement)

    • Emergency Preparedness and Response Training

    • Infectious Disease Control in Early Childhood Settings

    • Professional Development Hours in Early Childhood Education and Special Education

FAQs

What ages do you accept?

We welcome children ages 6 weeks to 5 years in our infant, toddler, and preschool programs.

What are your hours of operation?

Wildflowers Daycare is open Monday through Friday, from 7:30 AM to 5:30 PM.

What curriculum do you use?

We offer a play-based learning environment inspired by Montessori and Reggio Emilia approaches.
Our curriculum encourages hands-on exploration, creativity, independence, and social-emotional growth.

Do you provide meals and snacks?

Yes! We provide nutritious snacks and meals daily.
We follow healthy eating guidelines and can accommodate certain dietary needs with advance notice.

How do you handle naps and rest time?

Infants follow their own nap schedules.
Toddlers and preschoolers have a quiet rest period after lunch in a cozy, calming environment.

How do you communicate with parents?

We believe in strong partnerships with families!
We provide daily updates through Brightwheel, monthly newsletters, and regular parent-teacher conferences.

How do you support children's emotional development?

We use positive guidance techniques and model empathy, kindness, and problem-solving.
Building emotional security and confidence is a key part of our daily routines and learning experiences.

How can I enroll my child?

We’d love to welcome your family!
To enroll, simply fill out our enrollment form through Brightwheel or contact us to schedule a tour and meet our team.

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