Early Learning & Development Center
A thoughtfully designed learning environment in Philadelphia where curiosity is nurtured, creativity is celebrated, and every child builds a strong foundation for lifelong learning.
About Us
At Happy Hippos Early Learning and Development Center, we believe the earliest years are the most formative. Our center in Philadelphia provides a warm, intentional environment where young minds are free to explore, question, and grow at their own pace.
Our approach blends structured learning with open-ended play, guided by educators who see the potential in every child. We don't just prepare children for school — we help them fall in love with learning.
Located at 209 Walton Ave, our center is more than a classroom. It's a community where families feel seen, children feel safe, and development happens naturally through connection and care.
Our Programs
Each program is thoughtfully designed to meet children where they are, supporting their unique developmental needs through play-based, research-informed curricula.
Ages 6 weeks – 12 months
Gentle, responsive care that supports rapid early development. Our infant program focuses on secure attachment, sensory exploration, and the foundational trust that helps babies thrive.
Ages 1 – 3 years
A space for wobbly first steps and bold first words. Our toddler program encourages independence through guided exploration, language-rich environments, and joyful movement.
Ages 3 – 5 years
Building school readiness through intentional play. Our preschool program nurtures early literacy, numeracy, and social-emotional skills — preparing children not just for kindergarten, but for a lifelong love of learning.
Our Approach
Our curriculum is rooted in early childhood research and shaped by the belief that play is the work of childhood. Every activity, every interaction, and every environment is designed to support holistic development.
Lessons emerge from children's interests and developmental stages. We follow their curiosity and guide it toward meaningful learning experiences.
Our team holds certifications in early childhood education and engages in ongoing professional development to stay current with best practices.
Our space is intentionally designed to feel like a home — warm, safe, and inviting — where children can take risks, make mistakes, and grow confidently.
We view families as essential partners. Regular communication, parent involvement, and shared goals ensure consistency between home and center.
Our Community
Happy Hippos was founded on a simple conviction: children thrive when the whole community invests in them. Our doors are open to families who want an active, transparent, and collaborative partnership.
We host family workshops, seasonal celebrations, and open-house events throughout the year. Parents are welcomed into the classroom, encouraged to share their cultures and traditions, and kept informed through daily updates and regular check-ins.
Located in the heart of Philadelphia, we're proud to be a neighborhood anchor — a place where children from all backgrounds are welcome, where differences are celebrated, and where every family belongs.
Visit Us
Schedule a tour and see our classrooms, meet our educators, and discover what makes Happy Hippos a special place for your child.
Address
209 Walton Ave
Philadelphia, PA 39350-2035
Phone
(601) 575-1115Hours
Monday – Friday: 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Weekends: By appointment
Fill out the form below and we'll be in touch to schedule your visit.
