The Ivybrook Way

Embark on a Journey of Learning at Our Preschool in Franklin, TN

For more than 15 years, Ivybrook Academy, alongside our dedicated team of educators, has been laying the groundwork for a lifetime of learning in young minds. Our unique approach to early childhood education in our half-day Preschool promotes critical thinking, honors creativity, and instills a genuine passion for learning. The establishment of our school was driven by the increasing demand for preschools that recognize, celebrate, and nurture children's innate curiosity. Research underscores the pivotal role of early childhood education in cognitive development, and we are committed to providing the tools, encouragement, and environment for children to thrive both today and in the future.

Explore Ivybrook Academy's Preschool by taking a guided tour of our Franklin, TN campus today! Contact us now!

Our Educational Philosophy

At Ivybrook, we believe in amplifying children's voices, acknowledging their ideas, and empowering them to take an active role in their learning journey. This is achieved through a discovery-based, multi-sensory approach to early childhood education. Our Preschool works in tandem with our students as they delve into their interests, learn to ask questions, discover answers, and share their findings with their peers.

We cultivate strong partnerships between families and educators, creating optimal early learning environments where children can explore, create, solve problems, and collaborate with one another. With a natural curiosity about the world, children develop a deeper understanding of their surroundings through meaningful social interaction and reflection with both peers and adults.

Our Innovative Curriculum

Ivybrook Academy presents a hybrid curriculum that embraces innovation in early learning, drawing inspiration from three distinct educational approaches: Montessori, Reggio Emilia, and the Theory of Multiple Intelligences. These educational philosophies collectively contribute to our half-day Preschool's mission of building a strong foundation for children during their formative years of learning.

Family Testimonials

Enriching Your Child’s Foundation

"
Ivybrook Academy’s preschool program is such a valued asset to our community and especially to our family. We’ve had my oldest go through their program to completion and our twins currently attend. Not only did the school and its program help to aid in social development of my children, but in all aspects of growth and development it’s pretty evident this thriving and nurturing environment helped my oldest in her transition to kindergarten. What she had learned through play and exploration has benefitted her from being the independent and inquisitive child she is growing into becoming. She was well prepared for a fast paced and challenging arena. When compared to other applicants, the academic staff at our daughter’s independent school was impressed at how much she knew before joining their Kindergarten program. Our kids are amazed at what they learn, and the joy we see in their faces is evidence enough that we as parents made the right decision in their academic life.
The faculty is like family and ever so helpful for any question or concern along the way. There was never a doubt in our minds when we entrusted the school with our most valuable assets, our children. The safety of ALL the children has always been the school’s top priority. Ivybrook Academy has paved a wonderful path and a bright future for our oldest, and we’re looking forward to the years our twins have there as well!
" - The Khimji Family

Our Teaching Methods

Montessori

For over a century, the esteemed Montessori technique has empowered children to take charge of their learning. Originating from the insights of Italian physician Dr. Maria Montessori, this method acknowledges children's inherent preferences, encouraging them to explore the world with their natural curiosity.

This curriculum revolves around hands-on projects, fostering independence or collaboration with others. Guided by teachers, children lead the way, progressing at their own pace and working toward individual goals.

Reggio Emilia

Similar to Montessori, the Reggio Emilia approach allows children to advance at their own speed in student-driven classrooms. This collaborative style involves students, families, and teachers collectively participating in a child's education. Founded by Loris Malaguzzi, this innovative method centers on peer interaction, celebrating uniqueness, and respecting individual voices.

Malaguzzi believed that children communicate through "a hundred languages," encompassing writing, singing, and art. Educators under this approach encourage children to express themselves and explore the world through various avenues such as music, painting, storytelling, theater, and more. Additionally, the Reggio approach integrates nature into the classroom, creating a warm and nurturing environment akin to a home away from home.

The Theory of Multiple Intelligences

Researched by Harvard University professor Dr. Howard Gardner and introduced in 1983, the Theory of Multiple Intelligences challenges the notion of a one-size-fits-all approach to education. This innovative theory posits that intelligence manifests in various forms, recognizing the uniqueness of every individual's mind and learning style.

Discrediting the uniform mentality, the Theory of Multiple Intelligences demonstrates how children excel and face challenges in different subjects and skills. By tailoring the curriculum to each child's specific needs, this approach positions them to learn and thrive based on their distinct strengths and capabilities.

Growing Toward

Their Brightest Future

The Ivybrook curriculum grows with your child. Each of our programs optimize children’s time away from their families by providing developmentally appropriate learning opportunities customized to each child’s needs. Explore your child’s age group in more detail, or read an overview of our program offerings!

Explore Our Programs

*Please check with you local campus regarding UPK availability:

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