Nurturing Growth

by Ann Marie Kennon • photos courtesy Amy Payne

Mrs. Amy's Play-Based Educational Preschool

hen Amy Payne moved to the Austin area with her husband, she carried with her a profound dedication to childcare, shaped by her early work experiences and a bachelor’s degree in community development from Texas A&M. Driven by a vision that didn't align with the methods of large daycare chains, Amy began a journey that led her to establish her own home daycare. It quickly flourished, boasting a waiting list — and helped her see there was a place in the community for her unique approach to childcare.

In late 2019, seizing an opportunity in Liberty Hill, Amy took a bold step by leasing a business space previously owned by another school. Just as she was ready to begin, the COVID-19 pandemic struck, delaying her plans. However, Amy saw this as a blessing in disguise, giving her time to re-imagine the space and make it into something truly her own. With the support of her husband and family, they transformed the site, meticulously crafting an environment where children could thrive through play.

Mrs. Amy's Adventures Preschool, which officially opened its doors in June 2020, was met with overwhelming demand, filling to capacity within months. This response underscored a significant need in Liberty Hill, one that Amy was ready to meet head-on. Her philosophy centers on the belief — supported by data — that young children should engage in play-based learning, which helps them not only meet but exceed academic standards by early elementary.

Amy’s play-based curriculum is meticulously designed to foster whole child development — focusing on connection, self-regulation and the critical social abilities that young children need. Through structured play, children at Amy’s preschool learn to interact with their peers in a natural, engaging environment. This method encourages them to develop empathy, share, take turns, and resolve conflicts, all under the gentle guidance of their teachers. Amy says, “By integrating play with social learning, the curriculum ensures that children grow their communication skills and emotional intelligence alongside their physical and intellectual abilities. This holistic approach is key to developing well-rounded individuals who are prepared for the social dynamics of kindergarten and beyond.”

CARE AND COLLABORATION

A cornerstone of Amy's method is fostering individual relationships—not just between staff and children, but with parents as well. Unlike corporate schools, where ownership and decisions might feel distant and disconnected, Amy's team is deeply embedded in the local community. This connection extends to mutual efforts with local therapists, speech pathologists, and early childhood intervention agencies to provide a comprehensive, integrated learning environment for all children.

Looking forward, Amy has ambitious plans for the preschool. With continued demand over the years and a quickly growing local population, Mrs. Amy's has started construction on a 15,000sf facility, complete with an indoor playground, library, and cafeteria — with an anticipated open date of summer 2025! She aims to expand programs to accommodate all ages, from as young as 6 weeks to school age, incorporating after-school programs and summer camps. Her school will also partner with local businesses to provide extracurriculars on site. These offerings are designed to keep families and children engaged in a continuous, enriching educational experience without the stress of hectic schedules.

The curriculum at Amy's school is anything but static. It adapts to the needs of the children, with teachers encouraged to focus on nurturing rather than ticking off state-mandated checkboxes. This adaptive approach is evident in everything from the structured mornings that blend seated curriculum activities with playful, hands-on learning to the unstructured afternoons dedicated to deep, imaginative play.

Community involvement is also key. The school regularly hosts events like the Winter Wonderland — a festive gathering that serves as both a social event and a fundraiser, contributing to school programs and expansions. Her current goal, the upcoming construction of her new center, will double the school's capacity and enable her to introduce an accredited kindergarten program, further cementing the school’s commitment to Amy’s vision of education.

Every aspect of her preschool—from the carefully prepared meals to the thoughtfully designed play areas—reflects a commitment to creating a nurturing, engaging, and community-focused environment. It's a place where education is not just about learning skills but about growing as individuals and as a community.

For families interested in joining Amy's vibrant school community, tours are available by appointment. It's an opportunity to meet the dedicated team, experience Amy’s clear and heartwarming passion for her vocation, see her unique learning environment, and understand why her approach to early childhood education is truly transformative. Don't wait too long—spaces are filling up fast for the new school year!

Visit their website to learn more.