Early Learning Centers

Early Childcare Programs at Anacortes

Now Enrolling!

Join us for a fun, educational, and nurturing environment for your child. Our Early Childcare programs are designed for children ages 6 weeks to 12 years at the Whitney Site and 3 years (fully potty-trained) to Kindergarten at the Discovery Center Preschool.


General Program Information

📅 Monday through Friday: 6:30 AM – 6:00 PM
📞 Phone Number: 360-545-9544

📍 Whitney Site (Infant, Toddler, & School-Age Program)
1200 M Ave, Anacortes, WA 98221

📍 Discovery Center Preschool (Preschool Program)
1017 26th Street, Suite A, Anacortes, WA 98221


Which One to Choose?

  • Discovery Center Preschool: This program is designed specifically for preschool-aged children (3 years old, fully potty-trained, to Kindergarten). It focuses on early learning, self-esteem, confidence, and preparing children for school readiness through creative and hands-on activities.

  • Whitney Site: The Whitney Site offers care for infants, toddlers, and school-age children (up to 12 years old). This site provides a comprehensive approach to childcare, including early learning for younger children, school-age programming, and after-school care with a variety of activities tailored for different age groups.

Both programs use the Creative Curriculum by Teaching Strategies to meet developmental milestones in a supportive and nurturing environment. The choice depends on your child’s age and the type of care you’re seeking.


Program Highlights

At both sites, we focus on building self-esteem, confidence, and personal achievement while fostering respect for others. Our programs are designed to inspire a love of learning, preparing children for future success in a safe, fun, and positive environment.

Weekly activities include:
🎨 Art & Creativity
🔬 STEM Projects
🎶 Music & Movement
🏃‍♂️ Physical Activities & Outdoor Exploration
🧠 Creative Discovery

Meals Provided:
🍎 Breakfast
🥪 Lunch
🍪 Afternoon Snack

We also provide transportation to and from school and the Anacortes Boys & Girls Club gym for physical activity.


Tuition & Discounts

Whitney Site:

  • Fees: More details are available through the Parent Portal.
  • Discounts: A 10% discount is available for families with multiple children or for parents employed by:
    • U.S. Military
    • Anacortes School District
    • City of Anacortes
    • Island Health
    • Anacortes Family Center
    • Boys & Girls Clubs of Skagit County

Discovery Center Preschool:

  • Registration Fee: $100/year
  • Activity Fee: $40/month
  • Tuition: $1,400/month (or monthly co-pay as determined by WCCC/DCYF)
  • Daily Rate: $125/day (space available)
  • Part-Time Options:
    • 3 days/week – $1,050
    • 2 days/week – $850
  • Discounts: 10% off for multiple children and eligible employees (single discount applies).

Program Design & Curriculum

Both sites use The Creative Curriculum by Teaching Strategies, a nationally recognized framework designed to support each child’s development through group and individual activities. We focus on social-emotional learning and cognitive development while helping children meet their milestones in a fun and engaging way. The curriculum integrates:
🎵 Music & Arts
🔬 STEM Activities
🏃‍♀️ Physical Activities
🚌 Field Trips & Park Visits

Regular assessments by teachers tailor learning experiences to ensure children’s individual needs are met.


Transportation Information

🚍 Whitney Site:
Transportation is provided by the Anacortes School District, with no additional charges for early release or late start days.

🚐 Discovery Center Preschool:
Regular transportation is provided by Thomas Minotour vehicles, meeting Multi-Function School Activity Bus standards. These vehicles are equipped with integrated child seats for added safety.


Contact Information

For any questions or issues with registration, please reach out:

📞 General Phone: 360-545-9544

📩 Stephanie Travers, Director – Whitney Site
✉️

📩 Michael Luck, VP of Operations: Islands
✉️

📩 Christina Trader, VP of Operations: Mountain
✉️

Join us today and help us create Great Futures for the youngest members of our community!