Where Alexandria's youngest learners feel safe, seen, and celebrated
For more than a decade, Discovery Time Learning Center has been a trusted home-away-from-home for Alexandria families — a place where infants, toddlers, and preschoolers grow in confidence, curious children ready for kindergarten and the wide world beyond.
Our Story
Discovery Time Learning Center was founded in 2014 with one goal: to give Alexandria families an early childhood program that felt as nurturing as home and as intentional as the best schools in the country. More than ten years later, that mission shapes everything we do — from the way we greet children each morning to the way we celebrate their first written letters and last day of Pre-K.
We operate two Alexandria campuses just minutes apart — Discovery Time Learning Center on Leslie Avenue and Discovery Time Learning Academy on Hume Avenue — both serving infants through Pre-K with the same curriculum, the same safety standards, and the same warm, family-focused culture.
In 2018, Discovery Time earned national accreditation — a rigorous independent review of our classrooms, curriculum, safety practices, teacher qualifications, and family communication. We've been voted Best Daycare and Preschool in Alexandria by the families we serve, and we never stop learning.
Family-Focused
Real partnerships with parents, open communication, and a culture that feels like family.
Educator-Led
Experienced, well-trained teachers who build individual connections and love what they do.
Safety-First
Strict health & safety protocols and a clean, transparent learning environment.
Hands-On Learning
Play-based, hands-on activities that spark curiosity, creativity, and real world skills.
Community Driven
Two convenient locations in caring neighborhoods with the same nurturing, consistent experience.
Kindergarten Ready
A curriculum that builds confidence, independence, and a lifelong love of learning.
Meet Our Founder
Discovery Time was founded by Stephanie Harris, an Alexandria native and educator with a passion for creating exceptional early childhood experiences for young children and families. Stephanie saw a community in need of high-quality, trustworthy care that felt like a true extension of home. That vision became Discovery Time Learning Center — where children grow, learn, and thrive. As a 'hometown, locally owned business, Ms. Stephanie's commitment to serving others has inspired a culture of giving back in ways that support local children, families, and teachers. Today, Discovery Time's mission extends beyond early education, creating a lasting impact throughout the Alexandria community.
Explore Our Story & Community Impact in Alexandria →- 20+ years in Early Childhood education
- Founded Discovery Time in 2014
- Passionate about building relationships with children and families
- Believes every child deserves to feel loved, capable, and excited to learn
Our Philosophy
Strong bonds with teachers and peers help children feel secure and confident.
Play is how young children explore, discover, and make sense of the world.
We maintain the highest standards so families can have peace of mind.
We grow together through open communication and shared goals.
Quick Facts About Discovery Time
Frequently Asked Questions
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See Why Families Love Discovery Time
We'd love to welcome your family for a tour. Come see what makes Discovery Time so special!