Hand in hand with Your Child's future in Des Moines.
Since 2005, we've cared for children from 4 weeks to 5 years.
Request a visitHow we see children
We blend play with structured learning, so a child's day holds both room to explore and a shape to follow. Since November 2005 we have cared for children here, and we still believe the two belong together: hands busy, mind working, a teacher nearby. Our curriculum is built for that mix, and it grows with each age we serve, from four weeks to five years.
Rooms are set up for the children who use them, with age-appropriate classrooms and outdoor play areas. Toddlers get low shelves they can reach and open floor to move on. Older children find tables for small-group work, art supplies, and books within arm's reach. Outside, there is space to run and climb, and children go out daily.
Watch a room for ten minutes and you see the shape of it: a teacher kneeling at eye level, children choosing what to do next, hands busy with paint or blocks. Lessons grow out of what holds their attention, and teachers build on it. Ask us how a morning runs in your child's age group.
What a day looks like
Mornings start with a hello and a place to put things. A teacher greets your child by name, helps them settle, and eases them into the room. Younger children often go straight to a familiar toy or a lap. Older ones check the day's plan on the wall and join what is already underway.
The middle of the day moves between play and small-group learning, with art and crafts worked in. Children get outside daily, sometimes to the play area in the back, sometimes for a walk. Meals and rest follow the routine for each age group. Ask us what the schedule looks like for your child.
Afternoon is quieter. Children finish projects, rest, and come back together before pickup. Teachers share a moment from the day, a drawing, a new word, a turn taken kindly. That handoff is often the best part of a parent's afternoon.
How we work with families
At pickup, teachers tell you what actually happened: what your child played, what they ate, how they napped, who they sat with. If you have a question, ask then or reach out later. We are here to help you navigate the transition, whatever it looks like for your family.
The first weeks are a settle-in, for you as much as for your child. We start with shorter days if that helps, and we keep talking about how it is going. Tell us your child's routine and comfort items, and we will follow your lead at home.
How to join
- 01
Get in touch
Call 06 - (253) 364-4858 or email julie@agesinstageschildcare.com. Tell us your child's age and the days you need.
- 02
Tour the room
See the classroom your child would join and meet the teachers who run it. Ask anything you want to know.
- 03
Enroll and settle in
Complete the enrollment forms and plan a first week that suits your child's routine. We work with you on drop-offs and pick-ups so the first days feel steady.
Good questions to ask first
What ages do you take?
Children from 4 weeks to 5 years.
Can we visit before deciding?
Yes, a tour is the best way to decide. Children can come along and see the rooms, meet the teachers, and try a few activities while you ask questions.
What should my child bring on the first day?
Families usually pack a change of clothes, diapers or pull-ups if needed, and a comfort item from home. Label everything with your child's name.
Do you offer part-time or flexible schedules?
Schedules depend on the age group and the openings we have at the time. Call or email us with your child's age and the days you need, and we will tell you what is available for your family right now.
What if there is no place right now?
You can ask us to let you know when a place opens for your child's age. Call or email and we will keep your details on file.
Come and see a day here
Come see a day here. Bring your child along. We will show you around.
Request a visit