Questions are welcomed. Curiosity is the beginning of every discovery.
Davis Early Education Centers
Wonder.
Explore.
Grow.
Where childhood curiosity leads the way, and every day creates room to play, discover, and belong.
PLAY & LEARN • GUIDE & EXPLORE • NAEYC ACCREDITED • CURIOSITY LEADS • PLAY & LEARN • GUIDE & EXPLORE • NAEYC ACCREDITED • CURIOSITY LEADS •
Welcome to DEE
A place to become.
We believe children learn best through meaningful play, trusted relationships, and the freedom to follow their curiosity.
Davis Early Education is proudly NAEYC accredited—a prestigious, nationally recognized mark of quality achieved by only a small percentage of early childhood programs.
Our educators create thoughtful environments where each child is seen, supported, and encouraged to grow at their own pace.
Meet our philosophy →Hands-on experiences invite children to test, build, imagine, and try again.
Strong relationships create the confidence children need to take new steps.
Each child develops in their own way, supported with care and intention.
Ready to get started?
Apply to Davis Early Education.
Our approach
Learning is wonderfully messy.
Our play-based, NAEYC accredited program blends the independence and intentionality of Montessori-inspired learning with the joy of childhood discovery.
Child-led learning
What do you see?
Teachers observe closely, ask thoughtful questions, and help children turn interest into deeper learning.
Whole-child care
Known. Safe. Ready.
Social, emotional, physical, and academic growth are nurtured together—not treated as separate pieces.
Programs at both locations
Room for every next step.
Infant Program2–18 months
Discover
A nurturing, responsive beginning built around each infant’s individual rhythms, trusted relationships, sensory exploration, and movement.
Program details →
Toddler Program18–30 months
Explore
Predictable routines and active discovery help toddlers build language, independence, motor skills, and confidence.
Program details →
Preschool Program30 months–5 years
Grow
Play-based, Montessori-inspired experiences nurture creativity, collaboration, school readiness, and self-directed learning.
Program details →Two Davis communities
One shared philosophy.
Willow Bend ELP
Willow Bend
A welcoming learning community with thoughtfully prepared spaces for play, connection, and discovery.
50 Atrium WayDavis, CA 95616530-231-5065
Director: Shelby Faria
shelby.faria@davisearlyed.com
West Orchard ELP
West Orchard
A neighborhood-centered campus designed for curiosity, connection, and joyful everyday discovery.
400 Russell ParkDavis, CA 95616530-231-5085
Director: Stephanie Luna
stephanie.luna@davisearlyed.com
Both privately owned centers are conveniently located on the UC Davis campus and open to the entire community.
Hours & EnrollmentOpen Monday–Friday, 7:45 AM–5:15 PM
Some part-time enrollment options available.
Some part-time enrollment options available.
Come see childhood in action.
The best way to understand Davis Early Education is to experience it. Tell us a little about your family and we’ll help you plan a visit.
Schedule a Visit →