A community-centered early learning program inspired by nature, creativity, and the magic of childhood.
Where Curiosity Leads the Way
Welcome to Daisy Willow
LEARN MORE ABOUT US
Our mission is to create a warm, nature-inspired environment where children learn through curiosity, connection, and creativity. Guided by the Reggio Emilia philosophy, we see children as capable, curious learners who deserve spaces that reflect their ideas and interests. We partner with families to build a community where every child feels seen, supported, and valued.
Welcome to Daisy Willow Early Learning. I’m Colleen Herko, educator and mom of three, and I started Daisy Willow with a simple hope: to create a space where children are truly seen, heard, and encouraged to follow their natural curiosity. At Daisy Willow, we embrace creativity, connection, and discovery in every part of the day.
Infants
Toddlers
PROGRAMS OVERVIEW
6 weeks–18 months
18 months–3 years
Preschool
3–5 years
Our Seedlings and Sprouts rooms provide a nurturing environment where babies are cared for through gentle routines, responsive caregiving, and a safe space to explore at their own pace
In our Blossoms and Seekers rooms, toddlers are supported as they express big feelings, build confidence, and discover the joy of independence through play, art, and movement.
Our Investigators classroom invites children to collaborate, imagine, and create. Through hands-on projects and meaningful exploration, they become confident learners ready for their next chapter.
Colleen Herko
Colleen Herko is an early childhood educator, mom of three, and the founder of Daisy Willow Early Learning. After nearly two decades working with young children, she envisioned a space that truly honors the magic of early childhood, a place where curiosity is celebrated, relationships come first, and children feel safe to be fully themselves. Her approach blends Reggio Emilia principles with a deep respect for nature, play, and the power of community.
Meet the Founder
Owner & Director,
Daisy Willow Early Learning
Our environment reflects the Reggio Emilia philosophy, where every detail is intentional and every material invites discovery. Teachers and children co-create the learning experience through conversation, creativity, and collaboration. Together, we build a community that values curiosity, respect, and authentic expression.
Meet the Team
Hi, I’m Cristin Thompson! I’m a proud mom of two with over 14 years of full-time childcare experience. I’m passionate about sparking creativity and fostering an environment where child-led play is at the center of focus, allowing each child to learn and express themselves in their own unique way.
Meet the Team
Hi, I’m Cristin Thompson! I’m a proud mom of two with over 14 years of full-time childcare experience. I’m passionate about sparking creativity and fostering an environment where child-led play is at the center of focus, allowing each child to learn and express themselves in their own unique way.
"My family feels incredibly lucky to have had both of our children cared for by Colleen at Daisy Willow".
Cristin Thompson (mother of two Daisy Willow) alum)
She takes the children outside almost every day, in all kinds of weather, thoughtfully bundling them up and encouraging exploration and play.
Philosophies
At Daisy Willow, we believe childhood is something to be protected, celebrated, and deeply respected.
Children Are Capable and Curious
Environment as the Third Teacher
Learning Through Relationships
Nature as a Partner in Learning
We see every child as strong, competent, and full of ideas. Our role is to listen, observe, and create spaces where their curiosity can lead the way.
Classrooms are designed with intention. They are filled with meaningful materials and opportunities for open-ended exploration that invite wonder and discovery.
We believe learning happens in connection: between child and teacher, between peers, and between home and school. Collaboration and community guide everything we do.
Time outdoors isn’t an extra, it’s essential. We explore the seasons, care for our environment, and learn from the world around us every day.
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Our approach is inspired by the Reggio Emilia philosophy and grounded in connection — with ourselves, each other, and the natural world.
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SOUND RIDDLES
Tools & Resources
polysensorial carpets of paper
Children to set the table independently, supporting early math concepts like counting, spatial awareness, and one-to-one correspondence through meaningful, real-life experiences.
Children to explore listening by focusing on their sense of hearing, and highlights how sounds spark curiosity, imagination, and creative thinking.
Children ages 0–3 are invited to explore the many possibilities of paper through rich, multi-sensory experiences that use the body as a way of sensing, discovering, and learning.
NUMBERS AT TABLE
Here, you’ll find simple and meaningful ways to:
• Invite curiosity through open-ended play
• Encourage self-expression with natural and found materials
• Create cozy, child-centered spaces that inspire independence
• Slow down and see the world through your child’s eyes
At Daisy Willow, we believe learning continues long after children leave the classroom. These Reggio at Home resources are designed to help families bring the same sense of wonder, creativity, and connection into their daily lives.
Each idea is an invitation to slow down, connect, and find joy in everyday learning.
At Daisy Willow,
We believe childhood should be filled with connection, curiosity, and care. Families choose us because we offer more than childcare; we provide a place where children feel seen, where learning is guided by curiosity, and where every voice is valued and respected.
Whether you’re looking for your baby’s first nurturing environment or a preschool that inspires your child’s love of learning, we would love to welcome your family to Daisy Willow.
Daisy willow 2026 | Custom BRAND AND WEB Template CUSTOMIZATION BY LAURA GANDY
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