PROGRAMS & ENRICHMENT
Programs at Wilcox Academy
Age-specific, developmentally guided experiences designed to support children year-round—including early learning and summer enrichment.
Our Approach
At Wilcox Academy of Early Learning, every stage of childhood is intentionally supported through thoughtful, developmentally appropriate programming. Our year-round model provides consistent, stable care that allows children to grow within familiar environments, build meaningful relationships, and progress confidently through each stage of early development.
Our approach is rooted in the belief that young children learn best through exploration, connection, and purposeful play. Using a place-based learning framework, we help children make sense of their world in ways that are relevant, engaging, and developmentally appropriate.
Through our Love. Learn. Lead. philosophy, we partner closely with families to support the whole child academically, socially, emotionally, and physically, ensuring that learning is continuous, responsive, and individualized.
We proudly serve children year-round from 2 months to 5 years, with school-age programming (5–8 years) offered during Summer Camp.
How Children Learn at Wilcox
Our classrooms use research-based curricula aligned with Louisiana early learning standards to support children at every stage of development. We combine curriculum, assessment, and play-based learning to foster exploration, creativity, confidence, and school readiness.
Our Learning System Includes:
Frog Street Curriculum (Tier 1 approved curriculum by the LDOE)
Teaching Strategies GOLD to document developmental progress and learning milestones
Place-based learning experiences that connect children to the world around them
Our approach balances academic foundations with social-emotional development, hands-on exploration, creative expression, and purposeful play.
We remain committed to adapting our programming in alignment with best practices and Louisiana’s evolving educational standards.
Interested in helping shape meaningful early learning experiences?
KEY HIGHLIGHTS OF WILCOX
Programs At A Glance
Thoughtfully designed programs that support children and families through every stage of early learning.
• Year-round early learning programs
• Serving children ages 2 months - 5 years
• Developmentally appropriate classrooms
• Research-based curriculum aligned with Louisiana standards
• Place-based, play-centered learning
• Ongoing developmental assessment and growth tracking
• Strong family communication and partnership
• State-licensed Type III Early Learning Centers
Learning by Stage
Each stage of early childhood is supported through intentional, developmentally appropriate programming designed to meet children where they are and help them grow with confidence.
INFANTS | TODDLERS | EARLY PRESCHOOL | PRESCHOOL & PRE-K | SUMMER CAMP
INFANTS • 2 MONTHS - 12 MONTHS
Loved & Nurtured
Where love, trust, and first discoveries begin.
OVERVIEW: Our Loved & Nurtured infant program is grounded in connection, consistency, and care. We understand that in these earliest months, children are learning to trust the world around them.
Through warm, responsive caregiving and a research-based curriculum aligned with Louisiana early learning standards, our teachers create a safe, loving environment where each baby feels seen, soothed, and supported.
Families can expect individualized routines, strong communication, and a team that partners closely with them to ensure their child’s needs are met with intention and heart.
DAILY EXPERIENCE: Each child’s day follows their natural rhythm, with nurturing interactions woven into every moment, including feeding, resting, and play. Through touch, voice, and sensory experiences, infants begin exploring their environment and connecting with the world around them in meaningful ways.
BY THE END OF THIS STAGE: Children begin building foundational trust, communicating their needs, exploring with curiosity, and developing a strong sense of comfort and security within their environment.
TODDLERS • 1 YEAR - 2 YEARS
Learning & Exploring
Where curiosity, movement, and personality shine.
OVERVIEW: In our Learning & Exploring classrooms, toddlers are encouraged to move, discover, and begin doing things independently. Guided by a research-based curriculum aligned with Louisiana early learning standards, teachers support children as they build language, explore their growing independence, and navigate early social interactions.
This stage is filled with energy, curiosity, and meaningful milestones, and our team is there to guide, encourage, and celebrate every step along the way.
DAILY EXPERIENCE: Toddlers engage in hands-on learning through play, music, movement, and outdoor exploration. As they interact with their surroundings, they begin building meaningful connections with their classroom environment, teachers, peers, and community, helping foster confidence and a strong sense of belonging.
BY THE END OF THIS STAGE: Children begin communicating more clearly, demonstrating growing independence, engaging in simple social interactions, and confidently exploring their environment with curiosity and joy.
EARLY PRESCHOOL • 2 YEARS - 3 YEARS
Learning & Expressing
Where independence grows and imagination takes off.
OVERVIEW: Our Learning & Expressing classrooms are filled with curiosity, creativity, and growing confidence. Guided by a research-based curriculum aligned with Louisiana early learning standards, teachers lead children through engaging, hands-on experiences that support communication, creativity, and social development.
At this stage, children begin finding their voice, and we intentionally create space for them to express themselves with confidence and individuality.
DAILY EXPERIENCE: Children participate in small group learning, dramatic play, art, music, and exploration centers designed around real-life experiences. Teachers intentionally connect learning to children’s everyday lives, helping them better understand their world through familiar people, places, and routines.
BY THE END OF THIS STAGE: Children begin communicating their thoughts and feelings more clearly, engaging in cooperative play, demonstrating growing independence, and expressing themselves creatively and confidently.
PRESCHOOL & PRE-K • 3 - 5 YEARS
Leading & Growing
Where confidence builds and leaders begin to emerge.
OVERVIEW: In our Leading & Growing classrooms, children are supported as they step into confidence, independence, and leadership. Guided by a research-based curriculum aligned with Louisiana early learning standards, our program prepares children for kindergarten and beyond while nurturing their natural curiosity and love for learning.
Here, children are not just learners. They are thinkers, problem-solvers, and emerging leaders.
DAILY EXPERIENCE: Children engage in project-based learning, collaborative activities, and meaningful discussions designed to encourage exploration, creativity, and critical thinking. Through hands-on experiences connected to their community, culture, and environment, children begin to see themselves as capable individuals who can contribute, lead, and make an impact.
BY THE END OF THIS STAGE: Children build strong foundations for kindergarten readiness, demonstrate growing confidence and independence, solve problems thoughtfully, and begin developing leadership skills within both their learning environment and community.
SCHOOL-AGE SUMMER CAMP • 5 YEARS - 8 YEARS
Leading & Thriving
Where learning meets adventure and leadership comes to life.
OVERVIEW: Our Leading & Thriving summer program offers a dynamic blend of enrichment, exploration, and fun. Designed to keep children engaged throughout the summer months, this program continues to build confidence, independence, and real-world skills in a structured, supportive environment.
Families can expect a joyful, intentional setting where children are encouraged to explore, create, and grow while staying connected to meaningful learning experiences.
DAILY EXPERIENCE: Each day is filled with themed activities, hands-on projects, outdoor play, and field-based learning experiences that bring concepts to life. Campers are actively engaged in experiences that foster curiosity, creativity, and collaboration.
Through exploration of New Orleans’ culture, history, and surrounding community, children deepen their understanding of the world and their place within it.
BY THE END OF THIS STAGE: Children demonstrate increased confidence in their abilities, form meaningful friendships, apply learning in real-world contexts, and continue growing as curious, capable, and connected individuals.
Partnering With Families
We believe families are a child’s first and most important teachers. Through ongoing communication, developmental milestone tracking, and meaningful partnerships, we work together to support each child’s growth inside and outside the classroom.
Using Teaching Strategies GOLD, educators document developmental progress and tailor learning experiences to each child’s strengths and needs. Families receive regular updates to stay connected to their child’s learning journey.
Looking for another way to stay connected to the Wilcox community?
Program Hours
Wilcox Academy operates year-round, Monday through Friday, from 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM at each center location.
We continue to explore ways to expand support services and scheduling options for families in our community.
Looking for the Wilcox Academy location that feels right for your family?
WAEL MID-CITY (HQ)
WAEL AT SUNO
OUR NEWEST CAMPUS
WAEL CENTRAL CITY
Ready to Learn More?
We’d love to help your family find the right learning environment for your child’s stage of growth and development.
Whether you are exploring infant care, preschool readiness, or year-round support, our team is here to answer questions, schedule a tour, and support your next step.