About Ivybrook Academy Franklin

Discover Premier Early Childhood Education in Franklin, TN

For more than 15 years, Ivybrook Academy, alongside our dedicated team of educators, has been laying the groundwork for a lifetime of learning in young minds. Our unique approach to early childhood education in our half-day Preschool promotes critical thinking, honors creativity, and instills a genuine passion for learning. The establishment of our school was driven by the increasing demand for preschools that recognize, celebrate, and nurture children's innate curiosity. Research underscores the pivotal role of early childhood education in cognitive development, and we are committed to providing the tools, encouragement, and environment for children to thrive both today and in the future.

Explore Ivybrook Academy's Preschool by taking a guided tour of our Franklin, TN campus today! Contact us now!

Why Choose Ivybrook Academy?

Our Educational Philosophy

At Ivybrook, we believe in amplifying children's voices, acknowledging their ideas, and empowering them to take an active role in their learning journey. This is achieved through a discovery-based, multi-sensory approach to early childhood education. Our Preschool works in tandem with our students as they delve into their interests, learn to ask questions, discover answers, and share their findings with their peers.

We cultivate strong partnerships between families and educators, creating optimal early learning environments where children can explore, create, solve problems, and collaborate with one another. With a natural curiosity about the world, children develop a deeper understanding of their surroundings through meaningful social interaction and reflection with both peers and adults.

Our Innovative Curriculum

Ivybrook Academy presents a hybrid curriculum that embraces innovation in early learning, drawing inspiration from three distinct educational approaches: Montessori, Reggio Emilia, and the Theory of Multiple Intelligences. These educational philosophies collectively contribute to our half-day Preschool's mission of building a strong foundation for children during their formative years of learning.

Family Testimonials

Enriching Your Child’s Foundation

"
Afternoon session at Ivybrook has been a blessing for my daughter Ellie. With a smaller class size and fewer students overall, she has formed strong bonds with both her teachers and classmates. Having our mornings open also allows us to take advantage of local community offerings like library story time. I love having my time with her in the morning then leaving her in nurturing hands to explore, learn, discover, and play in the afternoon at Ivybrook.
Ellie, age 4
PreKindergarten PM Session
" - Ellie, age 4
"
We have loved our educators in the afternoon TK class. This year has given our family the chance to have slower mornings at home, join other activities in the community (like gymnastics and swim lessons) in the mornings when things are less crowded, and get the boys used to afternoons in the classroom before they move on to elementary school. It's been so nice that they end their Ivybrook afternoons with fun outdoor play time with their friends before settling in at home for the evening routine.
Theo & Otto, age 5
Transitional Kindergarten PM session
" - Theo & Otto, age 5
"
We are so grateful for the friendly and engaging teachers and staff at Ivybrook. We love how the teachers strive to grow each child’s individual potential within the classroom setting. Ivybrook has created an environment that is nurturing and respectful all while fostering academic growth, confidence, independence, and creativity. Our son is thriving in the afternoon PK/TK class, and the afternoon schedule has allowed him to participate in classes and activities outside of school. We cannot thank all of the Ivybrook staff enough for creating such a special preschool.
Greyson, age 4
Monday-Thursday PreK-TK PM session
" - Greyson, age 4

Read Local Testimonials

Our Teaching Methods

Montessori

For over a century, the esteemed Montessori technique has empowered children to take charge of their learning. Originating from the insights of Italian physician Dr. Maria Montessori, this method acknowledges children's inherent preferences, encouraging them to explore the world with their natural curiosity.

This curriculum revolves around hands-on projects, fostering independence or collaboration with others. Guided by teachers, children lead the way, progressing at their own pace and working toward individual goals.

Reggio Emilia

Similar to Montessori, the Reggio Emilia approach allows children to advance at their own speed in student-driven classrooms. This collaborative style involves students, families, and teachers collectively participating in a child's education. Founded by Loris Malaguzzi, this innovative method centers on peer interaction, celebrating uniqueness, and respecting individual voices.

Malaguzzi believed that children communicate through "a hundred languages," encompassing writing, singing, and art. Educators under this approach encourage children to express themselves and explore the world through various avenues such as music, painting, storytelling, theater, and more. Additionally, the Reggio approach integrates nature into the classroom, creating a warm and nurturing environment akin to a home away from home.

The Theory of Multiple Intelligences

Researched by Harvard University professor Dr. Howard Gardner and introduced in 1983, the Theory of Multiple Intelligences challenges the notion of a one-size-fits-all approach to education. This innovative theory posits that intelligence manifests in various forms, recognizing the uniqueness of every individual's mind and learning style.

Discrediting the uniform mentality, the Theory of Multiple Intelligences demonstrates how children excel and face challenges in different subjects and skills. By tailoring the curriculum to each child's specific needs, this approach positions them to learn and thrive based on their distinct strengths and capabilities.

Growing Toward

Their Brightest Future

The Ivybrook curriculum grows with your child. Each of our programs optimize children’s time away from their families by providing developmentally appropriate learning opportunities customized to each child’s needs. Explore your child’s age group in more detail, or read an overview of our program offerings!

Explore Our Programs

*Please check with your local campus regarding UPK availability:

upk universal preschool informational flyer