School-Age Childcare near Indian Head, MD

Private Kindergarten

This program follows the guiding philosophy of fun learning while preparing children with essential skills they will need for success in first grade and beyond.

Before & After School Care

If you’re looking for safe, reliable before- and after-school care for your school-age children, we have you covered! Our program picks up where your child’s school leaves off. Our engaging teachers will provide fun, hands-on activities that will nurture your child’s growth and development.

Kindergarteners

We provide programs to ensure readiness for first grade. This includes reading for kindergarten, and a continued learning of technology and art. Our kindergarten classes combine our L.E.A.P early education curriculum with an environment of fun, open-ended exploration, investigation, discovery, and building self-confidence and self-esteem. It’s the perfect opportunity for optimum growth in academics, socialization, physical fitness, and emotional well-being.

Drop-In Care

With our Flex Care program, you can purchase child care days in advance to use, as you need them—all year long. You get reliability and flexibility, and your child gets to experience our proven curriculum in a fun, safe, and secure environment. You can purchase prepaid cards in five-day increments through your school, and each is good for one full year. After completing the enrollment paperwork, just call 48 hours in advance to reserve your spot.

Before & After School

Get ready for a great start and finish to every school day. In our Before- and After-School Clubhouse for school-age students, we provide a mix of independent and organized activities, education and recreation, plus order and routine for their mornings and afternoons. This program focuses on: daily goal-setting, team-building exercises, healthy physical challenges, homework help, and community projects. We also offer flexible enrollment options to fit your family’s schedule and additional opportunities during school breaks, holidays, and summer vacation. And there may be transportation to and from your elementary school. Ask the director for details.

Private Kindergarten

As the culmination of our School Readiness Pathway, our Private Kindergarten program offers your child a small class size and big opportunities. The curriculum features award-winning national programs in literacy, math, and handwriting. Physical education, fine arts, social studies, and science and nature are also explored, while we work closely with your child to meet important social-emotional development objectives. Please note: All students must meet the state’s kindergarten entry-age requirement to enroll. Please contact your local school for further details.

Before & After School

Get ready for a great start and finish to every school day. In our Before- and After-School Clubhouse for school-age students, we provide a mix of independent and organized activities, education and recreation, plus order and routine for their mornings and afternoons. This program focuses on: daily goal-setting, team-building exercises, healthy physical challenges, homework help, and community projects. We also offer flexible enrollment options to fit your family’s schedule and additional opportunities during school breaks, holidays, and summer vacation. And there may be transportation to and from your elementary school. Ask the director for details.

Private Kindergarten

This program follows the guiding philosophy of fun learning while preparing children with essential skills they will need for success in first grade and beyond.

Drop-In Care

With our Flex Care program, you can purchase child care days in advance to use, as you need them—all year long. You get reliability and flexibility, and your child gets to experience our proven curriculum in a fun, safe, and secure environment. You can purchase prepaid cards in five-day increments through your school, and each is good for one full year. After completing the enrollment paperwork, just call 48 hours in advance to reserve your spot.

Before & After School

Get ready for a great start and finish to every school day. In our Before- and After-School Clubhouse for school-age students, we provide a mix of independent and organized activities, education and recreation, plus order and routine for their mornings and afternoons. This program focuses on: daily goal-setting, team-building exercises, healthy physical challenges, homework help, and community projects. We also offer flexible enrollment options to fit your family’s schedule and additional opportunities during school breaks, holidays, and summer vacation. And there may be transportation to and from your elementary school. Ask the director for details.

Private Kindergarten

As the culmination of our School Readiness Pathway, our Private Kindergarten program offers your child a small class size and big opportunities. The curriculum features award-winning national programs in literacy, math, and handwriting. Physical education, fine arts, social studies, and science and nature are also explored, while we work closely with your child to meet important social-emotional development objectives. Please note: All students must meet the state’s kindergarten entry-age requirement to enroll. Please contact your local school for further details.

Before & After School

Get ready for a great start and finish to every school day. In our Before- and After-School Clubhouse for school-age students, we provide a mix of independent and organized activities, education and recreation, plus order and routine for their mornings and afternoons. This program focuses on: daily goal-setting, team-building exercises, healthy physical challenges, homework help, and community projects. We also offer flexible enrollment options to fit your family’s schedule and additional opportunities during school breaks, holidays, and summer vacation. And there may be transportation to and from your elementary school. Ask the director for details.

School Age Before and After Care

Before and after school program focused on the developmental areas of: creative expression, community, literacy, inquiry-based learning, character development, and executive function. Daily routine includes: time for puzzles and games, science, math and construction, library, and creative arts. Teachers will also provide help with homework. Your child will have the opportunity to start clubs, create projects, and become a junior leader. Program provides daily physical activity and snacks.

Youth Zone (School Age)

The Youth Zone provides before and after school care, offering a safe and supportive environment for children during the hours before and after their school day. The program ensures children can spend time with friends in a fun, friendly, and relaxing setting. Activities are designed to keep children engaged and entertained, promoting social interaction and relaxation. This service is ideal for working parents who need reliable care for their children outside of school hours.

Summer Camp

Summer Camp at The Merit School makes it easy for parents to keep their routines by providing an exciting, safe, activity-driven place for their kids when school is out. Our summer camp program begins at the conclusion of the school year and continues through June, July, and August. Outdoor activities are a mainstay of the program, including swimming!

The Youth Zone (School Age Care)

The Youth Zone is our before and after school program that enables working parents to know that their child is safe and supported in the hours leading up to, and following their school day. Children have an opportunity to spend mornings and afternoons with friends in an environment that is fun, friendly and relaxing.

Summer Camp

School’s out, but the learning and fun don’t have to stop! Summer Camp at Minnieland Academy makes it easy for parents to keep their routines by providing an exciting, safe, activity-driven place for their kids when school isn’t happening!

School-Age Childcare Program

School-Age Childcare Program

Infants

In our Infant program, we focus on keeping each baby happy, comfortable, and eager to explore their classroom. Teachers use positive interactions to support each baby’s mental, physical, and social development in a safe, nurturing environment. We follow babies’ cues and provide individualized schedules. Our Baby Sign Language program helps teachers connect with infants, building trust and supporting early language skills. Families stay connected with daily updates and photos through our Links 2 Home app.

Beginners

In our Beginner program for ages 2–3, children build confidence and independence through self-help skills like dressing themselves and washing their hands. Teachers support big emotions and encourage curiosity with hands-on activities. Our Links to Learning curriculum builds vocabulary, introduces early math concepts, and helps children begin to use simple reasoning. Spanish is gently introduced, enriching their learning environment.

Infant class

A warm, nurturing environment where infants receive personalized care, gentle routines, and rich language interactions. We support early development through play, tummy time, and meaningful teacher-child connections.

Toddler class

Toddlers explore, move, and learn through hands-on activities and guided play. Teachers support language, independence, and social skills using the STREAMin³ model to turn everyday moments into learning.