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Today's Hours: 7:30 AM - 5:30 PM
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Monday7:30 AM - 5:30 PM
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Tuesday7:30 AM - 5:30 PM
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Wednesday7:30 AM - 5:30 PM
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Thursday7:30 AM - 5:30 PM
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Friday7:30 AM - 5:30 PM
Childhood Education Programs in Bethany, OR
Infant Through Pre-Kindergarten Daycare & Preschool Near Bethany
Families in Bethany, Oregon looking for childcare that goes beyond basic supervision can find something different at Safari Kid Cedar Mill. Our programs run from Infant care starting at 3 months through Pre-Kindergarten, all built on the WISDOM Learning Path, our proprietary curriculum framework that addresses six developmental domains: Cognitive, Social, Language & Literacy, Physical, Emotional, and Health & Care. Rather than committing to a single philosophy, we draw from Montessori, Reggio Emilia, and other research-backed methodologies so our mentors can meet each child where they are.
Our nature-inspired learning environment near Bethany is designed to invite curiosity from the moment children walk in. Structured guidance and open-ended exploration coexist in every classroom, giving children the balance they need to develop confidence, creativity, and a genuine love of learning. If you’re weighing daycare centers in the area, we’d welcome the chance to show you what a structured developmental framework looks like in practice.
Call our team at (503) 809-4447 to learn more about our childhood education programs serving Bethany families.
Why Bethany Families Choose Safari Kid Cedar Mill
Bethany families tell us that open communication and genuine involvement in their child’s day-to-day learning matter most to them. Our multi-methodology approach gives educators the flexibility to respond to different learning styles, and Oregon’s licensing framework sets baseline standards for preschool and child care. Together, those things give parents confidence in the structure and trust in the people delivering it.
- Six-Domain Whole Child Development: The WISDOM Learning Path addresses Cognitive, Social, Language & Literacy, Physical, Emotional, and Health & Care growth in every program from Infant through Pre-Kindergarten, supporting each part of your child’s development.
- Personalized Learning at Every Stage: Our mentors conduct ongoing assessments to adapt instruction to each child’s pace, strengths, and interests. No two children move through the WISDOM Learning Path identically, and that’s by design.
- Nature-Inspired Classrooms and Outdoor Spaces: Bright rooms, natural materials, and outdoor areas designed for hands-on exploration give children environments that spark discovery rather than passive reception.
- Experienced Local Leadership: Director Carly Lichtenwalter brings 12 years of childcare experience to Safari Kid Cedar Mill, including 2 years as Director at this location. Families working with Carly and her team can expect consistent, grounded leadership from day one.
- Family Partnership Through Procare: We stay connected with parents through Procare, a digital communication platform that delivers real-time updates, alongside regular progress assessments, parent-teacher meetings, and family events throughout the year.
- Oregon-Licensed and Compliant: Safari Kid Cedar Mill meets Oregon’s licensing requirements for preschool and child care, including staff background checks, facility safety standards, and health protocols required by the state.
Our Daycare & Preschool Programs in Bethany
Every program at Safari Kid Cedar Mill is built around the WISDOM Learning Path’s core principles: Wonder, Imagination, Security, Discussion, Observation, and Mentorship. These aren’t abstract values. They shape how classrooms are arranged, how daily schedules are built, and how our educators engage with children at each developmental stage.
Programs by age group:
- Infant (starting at 3 months): Warm, responsive care that supports early attachment and sensory exploration in a calm, nature-inspired setting.
- Toddler (starting at 14 months): Language-rich environments and guided movement activities that channel toddler curiosity into early developmental milestones.
- Entry Level Preschool (starting at 3 years): Introduction to structured group learning, early literacy and math concepts, and collaborative play within a predictable daily rhythm.
- Intermediate Level Preschool: Deepening academic foundations alongside growing social and emotional skills, with increasing independence and creative expression.
- Pre-Kindergarten (starting at 4 years): Focused support for kindergarten readiness that builds early reading, numeracy, and critical thinking skills while strengthening the social competencies children use in elementary school.
Daily activities develop early literacy, math, science, fine motor skills, and social awareness through the WISDOM Learning Path’s emphasis on Wonder, Imagination, Discussion, and Observation. Free play and guided learning sessions both have a place in the daily structure. Arts, music, and cultural activities connect children to diverse experiences, while our indoor and outdoor play spaces, built for Oregon weather, keep movement and nature-based exploration part of every week. Seasonal themes tied to gardening, local wildlife, and cultural celebrations in the Portland metro area keep the curriculum grounded and relevant.
Enrolling at Our Daycare Center Near Bethany
Starting at a new childcare center is a significant moment for any family. Our enrollment process is built to make that transition straightforward and reassuring, with support at every step.
- Step 1: Campus Tour: Parents tour the Safari Kid Cedar Mill campus near Bethany, observe classrooms in action, and ask questions about our curriculum, schedules, and approach.
- Step 2: Enrollment Support: Our team can walk families through forms, class schedules, health and safety requirements, and Oregon state guidelines so nothing comes as a surprise.
- Step 3: Personalized Start: Before your child’s first day, they’re introduced to the classroom and the team. Continuity and warmth during early transitions matter to us.
- Step 4: Ongoing Connection: After enrollment, Procare keeps parents informed daily. Regular progress updates and family events maintain the home-school connection throughout the year.
We accommodate individual family needs for schedules, dietary requirements, and cultural background within Oregon state guidelines. If you have questions specific to your family’s situation, our enrollment team is the right first call.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Ages Do Your Programs Serve?
Safari Kid Cedar Mill serves children from 3 months through kindergarten entry. Our programs include Infant, Toddler, Entry Level Preschool, Intermediate Level Preschool, and Pre-Kindergarten, so families can stay with us across multiple developmental stages without switching centers.
How Do You Help Children Who Are New to Group Care?
New students receive extra attention from our mentors during the adjustment period. We use small-group introductions and a pre-start classroom visit so children arrive on their first day with familiar faces and a sense of what to expect. Transitions are handled gently and at the child’s pace.
What Curriculum Do You Use?
We use the WISDOM Learning Path, our proprietary curriculum framework that blends Montessori, Reggio Emilia, and other research-backed approaches. It addresses six developmental domains, Cognitive, Social, Language & Literacy, Physical, Emotional, and Health & Care, across all programs from Infant through Pre-Kindergarten.
Is Safari Kid Cedar Mill Licensed for Preschool and Child Care in Oregon?
Yes. Safari Kid Cedar Mill meets Oregon’s licensing requirements for preschools and child care centers, including staff background checks, facility safety standards, and health protocols. Our staff completes required state training and maintains ongoing compliance with local regulations.
How Do You Keep Parents Informed?
We use Procare to share real-time updates with parents, supplemented by regular progress assessments, parent-teacher meetings, and family events. Our goal is for families to feel connected to their child’s learning every day, not just at scheduled check-ins.
Schedule a Tour at Our Bethany-Area Campus
If you’re ready to find a preschool or daycare program in Bethany built around a clear developmental framework, we’d like to show you what the WISDOM Learning Path looks like in person. Our flexible schedules, convenient location near Bethany parks and community centers, and community-connected environment make Safari Kid Cedar Mill a natural fit for working families in the area.
Call (503) 809-4447 or fill out our online inquiry form to schedule your personalized campus tour. We look forward to welcoming your family.
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Cognitive
We encourage curiousity and a love for learning that inspires children to explore and discover.
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Social
Children learn vital social skills through activities that emphasize cooperation and sharing.
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Language & Literacy
Communication skills are developed through interactive and engaging activities.
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Physical
We ensure children build strong, healthy bodies while fostering a love for movement.
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Emotional
Our approach to emotional learning helps children recognize, express, and manage feelings.
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Health & Care
Children learn to recognize and attend to their own needs, those of others, and the environment.
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Whole Child DevelopmentWe nurture academic, social, emotional, and physical development through play. -
Cutting-Edge CurriculumResearch-backed education provides an invaluable headstart. -
Welcoming EnvironmentThoughtfully designed facilities foster curiosity, safety, and rich learning.
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2005The first Safari Kid Launches in Newark, CA
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2007Safari Kid’s Eclectic Philosohpy is Introduced
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2008The Proprietary Booklet System is Released
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2009After-School Programs & Summer Camp Launch
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2011The Safari Kid Toddler Program is Launched
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2014The Safari Kid Infant Program is Launched
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2015Environmental Guidelines Are Developed
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2020The Kindergarten Program is Launched
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School environment is exceptional. Very colorful, bright, and playful environment, which attracts children’s attention.Katie LO
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The dedicated staff at Safari Kids create a nurturing and stimulating environment, making it a perfect place for early childhood development.Sushma Venkatayogi
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I would recommend safari kid to anyone looking for a great experience.Jill Turek