Little hands creating big discoveries. Through nature-inspired art and sensory play, children experiment, explore, and express themselves freely—building creativity and joy along the way.
(610)577-6002
Licensed Childcare Services
Early Learning and Care Tailored for Every Child
Committed to Nurturing Growth and Development
About Us
Inspired by a Mother's Vision
Dedicated to Inclusion and Individualized Support
Kristilynn’s Tiny Teachers was created from both personal experience as a parent and professional experience as an educator. Our program is built on the belief that every child deserves to feel safe, supported, and valued in their early learning environment.
We provide a nurturing, hands-on learning space where children of all abilities and backgrounds can thrive. Our approach focuses on individualized care, meaningful relationships, and developmentally appropriate learning experiences tailored to each child’s unique needs.
We proudly welcome families of all backgrounds, identities, and family structures and are committed to fostering an inclusive, respectful environment where every child feels a sense of belonging. At Kristilynn’s Tiny Teachers, children are encouraged to explore, grow, and learn in a space rooted in kindness, understanding, and care.
Welcome Letter
Dear Families,
Welcome to Kristilynn’s Tiny Teachers! Choosing a childcare program is one of the most important decisions you will make for your child, and we are truly honored that you are considering becoming part of our community.
Our mission is to provide a safe, nurturing, and inclusive environment where children feel supported as they grow, explore, and develop confidence in themselves and the world around them. We believe in child-led learning, strong relationships, and meeting each child where they are developmentally.
We are proud to offer a program that embraces diversity and inclusion, welcomes families of all backgrounds and identities, and supports children with varying needs and abilities. Our curriculum incorporates American Sign Language (ASL), hands-on learning experiences, and a strong focus on social-emotional development to help children build communication skills, confidence, and meaningful connections with others.
This Parent Handbook is designed to help you understand our philosophy, policies, and daily practices. We believe that open communication and a strong partnership between families and caregivers are essential to a successful childcare experience. Please take time to review the information provided, and never hesitate to reach out with questions or concerns.
We look forward to building a trusting, supportive relationship with you and your child.
Warmly,
Kristilynn Vaughan
Owner / Founder & Lead TeacheR
Avery loves it there. Every day we talk about how excited to see our friends we are and she mentions the teachers by name. The kids are always playing or doing art. They go outside all the time. Kids are not strapped in high chairs just waiting for someone to engage with them. I love that the teachers divide and conquer and engage with the kids in small groups. I absolutely love that every day we can re-read the books they read that day. I love that on Sunday I get a schedule of that weeks intended lessons and themes so we can talk about it at home before and after. Or dress up that day. Plus all of the signs. Our communication at home is smooth even if she is only one because of signing skills.
The meals are super balanced and healthy and I know we are getting exposed to good eating habits and a variety of things. My daughter loves all the arts and crafts and her fine motor skills are off the charts because of it. Couldn’t be happier.
Client
Mama
Newsletter
Stay connected with our Tiny Teachers village—news, updates, and special moments.
Learning looks like laughter here. Through sensory play, movement, and child-led exploration, we create meaningful moments that help little ones feel safe, curious, and excited to learn every day.
Little hands, big stories. Cozy reading moments help children slow down, connect with stories, and develop early literacy skills at their own pace.
Moments of wonder happen when little ones catch a glimpse of themselves—building confidence, curiosity, and connection through play.
Curriculum
Our Curriculum: HighScope®
At Kristilynn’s Tiny Teachers, we proudly use the HighScope Curriculum, a research-based, child-centered approach that supports the whole child through active learning, exploration, and meaningful relationships..
HighScope supports children in learning through hands-on experiences, play, and meaningful interactions, helping them build confidence, independence, and a love of learning.
What HighScope Looks Like in Our Program
Active Learning
Children learn by doing—exploring, creating, moving, and discovering through play.
Why We Chose HighScope
HighScope is:
✔ Research-based
✔ Developmentally appropriate
✔ Widely respected in early childhood education
✔ Focused on the whole child
✔ Perfect for infants, toddlers & preschoolers
.
Language & Communication Development
We encourage communication through:
Talking & storytelling
Songs & music
Visual supports
ASL and gestures
Social & Emotional Growth
Children learn how to:
Express feelings
Build friendships
Problem-solve
Gain independence
Hands-On Exploration
Daily activities include:
Sensory play
Art & creativity
Outdoor exploration
Music & movement
Individualized Learning
Each child is supported at their own pace based on:
Developmental milestones
Interests
Strengths & needs
Kristilynn Vaughan
Owner/Provider
Kristilynn is the owner and lead educator at Kristilynn’s Tiny Teachers. With experience in the school district and a strong background in early childhood development, she brings structure, creativity, and heart to every day. Inspired by her daughters—one with sensory needs and one who is deaf—she is passionate about inclusive care, hands-on learning, and creating a safe, welcoming environment where every child can grow and feel understood.
Valerie Whipple
Director
Val is the Director and Office Manager at Kristilynn’s Tiny Teachers, bringing strong leadership, organization, and care to our center. With an associate’s degree, a culinary background, and years of hands-on experience as a mother of three, she blends professionalism with a nurturing touch. Val oversees daily operations, financial management, and family communication, ensuring our program runs smoothly and supports both children and parents with consistency and compassion
Meet Our Teachers
Dedicated Educators
Our teachers bring warmth, patience, and creativity to every day. They support each child with hands-on learning, gentle guidance, and a focus on building confidence.
Michelle Wacenske
Shelly, is a dedicated and nurturing member of our Tiny Teachers team. With a natural passion for early childhood care, she brings patience, kindness, and steady support to every child she works with. Shelly’s strength is building trusting connections, creating calm, engaging learning moments, and helping children feel safe and confident throughout their day. Her caring personality and dependable presence make her an essential part of our center’s heart and daily success.
Briana Johnson
Briana is a dedicated and caring member of our team, bringing hands-on experience and a genuine love for working with children. She is CPR certified and up to date on all required trainings, ensuring a safe and nurturing environment for every child. A proud parent herself, Briana understands the unique needs of families and children, and she also incorporates her knowledge of ASL to support inclusive communication and learning. Her passion for helping children grow and thrive makes her an invaluable part of our center.
Meet our Custodians
Dedicated to keeping our center safe, clean, and welcoming every day!
Wyatt Vaughan
Wyatt is a dependable and hardworking member of our team, keeping our center safe, clean, and welcoming four days a week. A junior in high school, he is active in his church as a dedicated volunteer and demonstrates leadership among his peers. Wyatt is also committed to his sports teams and is a proud member of the National Honor Society. His responsibility, energy, and commitment both in and outside of work make him a valued part of our center family.
Nancy Nau
Nancy brings a wealth of experience and dedication to our team. After many years working at the Greece Library, she now helps keep our center clean and welcoming once a week and steps in as a substitute both in the classroom and cleaning when needed. Nancy’s reliability, warmth, and willingness to help wherever she’s needed make her a valued part of our center family.
Our Gallery
A Glimpse into Our Inclusive Classroom
Explore moments of play, learning, and discovery captured in our sensory-friendly and communicative environment.
Testimonials
From the families who know us best …
Jenna
I love how much time they get outside and that as other said above, there is always an activity going. V. has learned so many songs and signs and she has only been with you guys for a few months. It is so amazing when she signs what we are talking about at home. We all know she’s a mamas girl and drop off can be hard, but you guys know how to support her and get her over that hump in the morning and I am so thankful for that.
Nicole
I like that when I come in, all of the children are engaged in activities. I never see a TV on or the kids just sitting in front of one. I see teachers interacting with the kids constantly. I was so excited to get a handprint turkey and a video of L "making" it even though he's still a baby. I love the frequent updates and photos in procare. and whenever my baby sees his teachers now, he smiles or does his little excited squeeze of my shirt. I like that when I raise a concern, like a drool rash my baby had for a few days, they apply the cream I requested without making me feel like I'm doing too much. I also like that the teachers tell me when L is hitting a milestone. that he's now pulling up and they tried his straw cup with him for the first time and they seem just as excited as I am about it. It makes me feel like they're caring for him the way they care for their own babies
Shell F.
My son was with Kristilynn for 2 years before going off to UPK. He was happy to go every day. He loved each and every one of his teachers. He had fun playing (the messy type of playing) and learning. They went on walks to the church park. The food was delicious. He learned some ASL every day too. His confidence grew in those two years and now he is killin it at UPK. I recommended KTT to my friend, who started bringing her infant son there. I would highly recommend KTT to anyone! The level of care and the family feel is like no other daycare.
Lisa T.
My daughter was one of the OGs at Kristilynns Tiny Teachers, she has been there for over 2 years and Ive always felt safe knowing that she was in good hands while we were at work. L loves KiKi and all the teachers there and has made friends for life! They are considered family to us and have the best staff there is. My daughter loved her time there and has thrived! I highly recommend Kristilynns Tiny Teachers!
Tammy M.
Kristilynn and her team are amazing! Using English and ASL to help these little kiddos to learn and grow together❣️
Caitlin S.
I tell everyone I know about KTT! My daughter has been with Kristilynn since she was 6 months old (now 20mo) and is thriving. I love that she is able to learn and explore the things that she wants while being guided by children that are older than her. I believe learning ASL has led to fewer “hard toddler moments” since she can communicate her needs more than she would be able to with only verbal words. Kristilynn and the whole staff love my daughter like she is one of their own and it really feels like one big family here. It’s still hard for me to leave to go to work but I feel so much better knowing the amazing people she is surrounded by everyday! 🤍
Jeremy Z.
My son attended Kristilynn’s DayCare for a few years before starting UPK & I cannot recommend her enough! Kristilynn and her staff are phenomenal at what they do. They are as loving as they are skilled in caring for the little ones. My son was a bit on the shy side at first when we started daycare, and by the time he left to go off to Pre-K he grew into such a confident, social young boy, ready to take on the world ahead.
BEST DAYCARE PROGRAM EVER!
Lauren
5/5 stars. We’d give 25/25 if that were a rating. Kristilynn and her staff are so warm, welcoming and kind. My 3yo consistently asks to “go to his new school” and says how much he loves it. Having worked in childcare myself and tried my hardest to send my son to two centers before finding Kristilynn and her daycare I can tell you from a perspective of a provider and parent, there is no place that compares. If you’re lucky enough to send your kids here, you’ll know exactly what I mean. It truly is like a loving family and I love that they meet each child where they’re at. They truly do have a child-led approach and we are so thankful!
Rachel W.
The reading and the activities to match I get excited for what I can put on the fridge. The pictures and videos throughout the day make my heart melt knowing he is so happy and cared for. Seeing how much A has grown in these few months solidifies that we made the best decision ever by moving him to your care. Everyone there is so invested and loving that it feels like one big family giving us peace of mind while we are at work.