About Little Acorn Academy

Our Mission Statement

At Little Acorn Academy, our mission is to provide a safe, loving, and play-based environment where children are nurtured and known. Rooted in Christian faith, we partner with families to cultivate a lifelong love of learning, curiosity, and kindness. We believe that by planting seeds of faith and play, children will grow strong in spirit, confident in who they are, and joyful in their learning.

Our Philosophy

We believe each child is a unique creation of God, full of potential and purpose. At Little Acorn Academy, learning is most meaningful when it is rooted in play. Our faith-based and play-based philosophy, inspired by NAEYC standards, encourages child-led discovery, hands-on exploration, and creative expression. We nurture the whole child—spiritually, emotionally, physically, and intellectually—by cultivating an environment where children feel safe, loved, and empowered to wonder, explore, and grow.

Core Values

  • Faith in Christ: Christ is at the center of all we do. We incorporate prayer, Scripture, and Christian values into daily life, fostering a deep sense of God’s love and presence.
  • Play with Purpose: We honor play as essential to early childhood development. Our classrooms are rich with opportunities for discovery, creativity, and joyful learning.
  • Nurturing Relationships: We build strong, respectful relationships with children, families, and staff, creating a community grounded in love, trust, and mutual support.
  • Excellence in Care & Education: We are committed to providing the highest standard of care and learning, continually evolving through professional development and evidence-based practices.
  • Celebrating Each Child: Every child is uniquely created in God’s image. We celebrate diversity and support each child’s individual path of growth and development.
  • Partnership with Families: We view parents as the primary educators and partners in faith. Together, we create a consistent and supportive environment for children to thrive.
Taelor and Kids

Meet the Owner and Director

 

Hello and welcome! I’m Taelor Saunders, owner and director of Little Acorn Academy—and also a proud mama to little ones myself. As a mom, I deeply understand the importance of finding a safe, nurturing, and high-quality early learning environment—a place where your child is truly seen, supported, and celebrated.
With over 12 years in education, my journey has included roles as a teacher, curriculum coach, center director, and early childhood quality coach with CCR&R. I hold a Bachelor’s in Elementary Education with an Early Childhood Unified Endorsement, and I’m currently pursuing my Master’s in Educational Leadership. All of these experiences have shaped the heart and vision of Little Acorn Academy.

At Little Acorn Academy, We Care for More Than Just the Child

When your family walks through our doors, you’re not just enrolling your child; you’re joining a community that sees and values the whole family. We don’t seek to replace the love, guidance, and care you give at home. Instead, we want to be an extension of your family;  walking alongside you in the early years with prayer, support, and encouragement.

Here’s what that looks like:
We build strong connections with parents and caregivers.
We share faith-filled encouragement and resources.
We pray for your child and your family by name.
We’re always here for a listening ear, a celebration, or a helping hand.
You’ll never be just “drop-off and pick-up” to us.

We believe that caring for children well means partnering with the people who know and love them most: you.

Together, we nurture the hearts, minds, and spirits of every little acorn; so they grow strong, confident, and deeply rooted in love.
Join our waiting list now to secure your family’s spot in the LAA community.

kids at preschool
Kids praying

We Are Faith Based

At Little Acorn Academy, being a faith-based preschool means that our foundation is built on God’s love. We align our core beliefs with the Assembly of God church and strive to reflect Christ in everything we do — not just in what we say, but in how we care for children and support families.

Here’s how faith is naturally woven into our day:
 We pray before meals and pray for our students, families, and community.
Each week, we focus on a Scripture verse that helps guide our hearts and our play.
Through fun, hands-on activities, we explore how these verses apply in everyday life — through kindness, sharing, patience, and love.
We partner with and support local church organizations to strengthen our community ties.

Yes, we are play-based and developmentally appropriate in every aspect of learning, but our greatest goal is to show children and families the joy and peace that comes from God’s love. That’s the heart of everything we do.

Here’s the most important part: We do not require families to attend church, have a religious affiliation, or even know Jesus. We simply want to provide a space where every family has the opportunity to experience the love and grace of God, no pressure, just open arms.
You’re welcome here just as you are.

Contact Little Acorn Academy