Learning through play
Creative Play School offers a play-based curriculum, loving community and safe environment where your child can learn, grow and thrive.
Family-owned and operated for over 40 years, Creative Play School offers childcare and early childhood education at two preschools in Alexandria, Virginia. Our professional, loving staff and play-based curriculum provide a learning environment where your child can learn, grow and thrive.
Voted one of the best preschools by “Northern Virginia Magazine” for four years in a row.
We provide an environment where children can thrive.
Creative Play School offers a safe, clean, and supportive environment where individuality and self-expression are embraced. Our goal is for every child to enjoy coming to school and learning as this is the groundwork for later success. Learn more about our learning environment.
We promote learning through play.
Each school day at Creative Play School offers a balance of free time and planned play activities that encourage creativity and imagination so that children can learn by doing. Children are given the opportunity to develop at their own pace while learning to play cooperatively as part of our school community. Learn more about our curriculum.
We offer optional, extracurricular activities.
Parents have the option to enroll children in additional activities that are available during the school day, outside of the regular curriculum. These include soccer, music and fitness. For school-age children we offer after-school care and homework help. Learn more about our extracurricular activities.
We are dedicated to your child’s well-being.
Creative Play School has been owned and operated by the founder, Diane Smalley, for over 40 years. The directors have degrees in early childhood development and our professional staff receive ongoing in-service training and incentives for continued education. Our teacher-to-child ratios consistently exceed licensing standards as we are dedicated to the growth and well-being of each child. Learn more about us.
We partner with your family to support your child.
Quality care is a partnership between family and school. Parents and caregivers help us understand children’s individual differences and are a vital part of our program. Your time and energy at school benefit all and build self-esteem and pride in your child. Contact us—we’d love to hear from you.
We'd love to meet you.
Get in touch to schedule a tour at one of our two preschools.