Explorer Learning Academy (ELA) provides comprehensive early childhood education and childcare services for children from infancy through preschool age. Our services include:

• Infant Care (6 weeks–24 months) – Safe, nurturing care focused on responsive relationships, development, and early learning.

• Toddler Care – Hands-on learning experiences that support language, social-emotional growth, self-help skills, and exploration.

• Preschool Programs – School-readiness programs that prepare children for kindergarten through play-based, research-backed learning experiences.

• Preschool for All (PFA) – Free preschool slots for eligible Multnomah County families through the Preschool for All program.

• Extended-Hour Childcare – Before-care, after-care, and extended-day options for working families.

• Weekend Childcare – Flexible care options for families who work weekends or need weekend support.

• Childcare for Healthcare and Shift Workers – Schedules designed to support nurses, medical professionals, first responders, hospitality workers, and other families with non-traditional work hours.

• ERDC & CCI Accepted – We accept Employment Related Day Care (ERDC) and Child Care Improvement (CCI) assistance for eligible families.

• Meals and Snacks Included – Nutritious breakfast, lunch, and snacks are provided daily.

• Diapers and Wipes Included – Families do not need to provide diapers or wipes for most children.

• Family Engagement and Communication – Daily updates, photos, and communication through our family engagement platform.

• Kindergarten Readiness – Literacy, math, science, social studies, and social-emotional learning activities aligned with Oregon early learning standards.

• Culturally Responsive Learning Environment – Diverse books, materials, celebrations, and experiences that honor all children and families.

• Outdoor Learning and Active Play – Daily opportunities for gross motor development, exploration, and nature-based learning.

Yes, until 10:00 pm. Explorer Learning Academy offers extended childcare hours for families who need care beyond the traditional school day. This is especially helpful for parents working in healthcare, transportation, hospitality, public safety, and other evening-shift careers.

Yes. Explorer Learning Academy offers weekend childcare options for infants, toddlers, and preschoolers. Weekend care supports families with non-traditional work schedules, including medical professionals, service workers, and families who need dependable care outside Monday-Friday hours.

Yes, until 10:00 pm. ELA provides evening and extended-hour childcare options. Families who work later shifts can access safe, licensed childcare for infants, toddlers, and preschoolers beyond standard daycare hours.

Yes. ELA is designed to support families with demanding and non-traditional schedules, including nurses, doctors, hospital staff, first responders, transportation workers, and hospitality employees who may need evening, weekend, or extended-hour care.

Yes. Explorer Learning Academy accepts ERDC and CCI for eligible families. Families may use approved childcare assistance to help cover the cost of care.

Yes. Explorer Learning Academy participates in Preschool for All for eligible preschool-age children. This helps make high-quality preschool more accessible for Portland families. Monday - Friday 8:30 am - 6:30 pm

Yes. ELA tuition includes diapers, wipes, meals, and snacks. Families do not have to bring these daily essentials unless their child requires a specific product due to allergy, sensitivity, or family preference.

Yes. Explorer Learning Academy provides licensed infant care in Portland, along with toddler and preschool programs. Infant care includes nurturing routines, safe sleep practices, responsive caregiving, meals, diapers, and wipes.

Yes. Explorer Learning Academy values bilingual communication and culturally responsive teaching. Children benefit from a diverse learning environment where language, culture, and family identity are respected.

Yes. Explorer Learning Academy maintains supportive child-to-teacher ratios so children receive individual attention, supervision, and nurturing care throughout the day.

Explorer Learning Academy provides licensed childcare in Portland, including Northeast Portland and Southwest Portland locations serving infants, toddlers, and preschoolers.

Yes. Families enrolled in Preschool for All (PFA) can add before-care, after-care, or full-day care beyond the standard PFA schedule. The additional hours may be paid directly by the family or covered through Employment Related Day Care (ERDC) benefits for eligible families. This allows working parents to access a full day of care while their child continues to receive the benefits of the Preschool for All program.

Yes. Explorer Learning Academy provides four uniform tops per child each year at no additional cost. Families may choose to purchase additional uniform shirts, sweaters, hoodies, or jackets; however, these additional items are completely optional. Our uniform program helps create a sense of belonging, simplifies morning routines, and ensures children are dressed comfortably for active learning and play throughout the day.