Frequently Asked Questions

Question 1

What ages do you serve?

Accepted Answer

We serve children ages 18 months to 12 years old across age-specific classrooms: Toot-Toot Toddlers (18 months), Busy Boxcars (2-year-olds), Rail Ready Crew (3-year-olds), and Steam Scholars (schoolers).

Question 2

Where are you located?

Accepted Answer

We are located at 5112 Antoine Drive Suite A, Houston, TX 77092, in Northwest Houston, conveniently accessible to families in Spring Branch, Garden Oaks, Oak Forest, and surrounding communities.

Question 3

What are your hours?

Accepted Answer

We are open from 5:00 AM to 11:00 PM, seven days a week, including most major holidays. We offer extended care for families who need it.

Question 4

Are you a licensed childcare center?

Accepted Answer

Yes. The Learning Express Houston is a state-licensed childcare center regulated by the Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC). Our license is posted at the facility and our inspection history is publicly available through the HHSC Child Care Licensing portal.

Question 5

Do you offer part-time enrollment?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We offer both full-time and part-time enrollment options. We understand that every family's schedule is different, and we work to accommodate a variety of needs. Contact us to discuss what's available.

Question 6

Do you accept children with special needs or developmental delays?

Accepted Answer

We are committed to being as inclusive as possible. Please contact us directly to discuss your child's specific needs so we can have an honest conversation about whether our program is the right fit and what accommodations we can offer.

Question 7

How do I enroll my child?

Accepted Answer

The first step is scheduling a tour. After your visit, if you'd like to move forward, we'll provide an enrollment application and walk you through the required documentation. Visit our Enrollment page for a full step-by-step overview.

Question 8

What documents do I need to enroll?

Accepted Answer

Texas state licensing requires immunization records, a health statement from your child's physician, emergency contact information, and signed authorization forms. We'll provide a complete checklist when you're ready to enroll.

Question 9

Is there a waitlist?

Accepted Answer

Availability varies by classroom and time of year. Contact us directly to ask about current openings for your child's age group.

Question 10

Is there an enrollment fee or deposit?

Accepted Answer

Please contact us directly for current enrollment fee and deposit information, as this may change over time.

Question 11

Can I visit before enrolling?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely, and we encourage it. Scheduling a tour is the best way to see our classrooms, meet our team, and get a feel for whether we're the right fit for your family.

Question 12

What is the minimum age for enrollment?

Accepted Answer

We enroll children starting at 18 months of age. Our youngest classroom, Toot-Toot Toddlers, is designed specifically for children who are 18 months old.

Question 13

What kind of curriculum do you use?

Accepted Answer

We use a play-based, developmentally appropriate curriculum that covers literacy, math, science, art, music, social-emotional learning, and executive function skills. Learning happens through intentional play, exploration, and meaningful teacher-child interactions, not worksheets or drills.

Question 14

How do you prepare children for kindergarten?

Accepted Answer

Our Steam Scholars classroom (schoolers) is specifically focused on kindergarten readiness, including phonics, early writing, number sense, and the social and behavioral skills children need to thrive in a kindergarten setting. But readiness is built across all years, not just the last one.

Question 15

Do you use screens or technology in the classroom?

Accepted Answer

We limit screen time in our classrooms in line with recommendations from the American Academy of Pediatrics. When technology is used, it is purposeful and age-appropriate, not a substitute for hands-on learning or teacher interaction.

Question 16

How do you handle children who are ahead of or behind their peers developmentally?

Accepted Answer

We observe each child individually and adjust our approach accordingly. Our goal is to meet every child where they are, not where we expect them to be. If we notice a child who might benefit from additional support or enrichment, we communicate with the family and work together on a plan.

Question 17

Do you do homework or send home worksheets?

Accepted Answer

No. Research on early childhood development does not support homework or worksheets for young children. We focus on building skills through play and experience during the school day.

Question 18

How do you assess children's progress?

Accepted Answer

We use observation-based assessment. Teachers observe children throughout the day and use those observations to understand each child's development and plan next steps. We share observations with families regularly and welcome ongoing conversations.

Question 19

What does a typical day look like?

Accepted Answer

A typical day includes morning circle time, learning centers, outdoor play, meals, rest time, and afternoon activities. Visit our A Day in Our School page for a full schedule breakdown.

Question 20

Do you provide meals and snacks?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We provide breakfast, lunch, and snacks throughout the day. Please contact us for information about our current meal program and any dietary accommodation policies.

Question 21

What should my child bring on their first day?

Accepted Answer

We'll provide a complete list when your enrollment is confirmed. Generally, children should bring a change of clothes, any comfort items they need, and any required personal care items. We'll let you know exactly what to expect.

Question 22

What is your nap/rest time policy?

Accepted Answer

All children have a scheduled rest period in the afternoon. Younger children typically nap, while older children engage in quiet, restful activities. We follow Texas HHSC guidelines for safe sleep practices.

Question 23

Can I drop in to visit my child during the day?

Accepted Answer

We maintain an open-door policy and welcome family visits during operating hours. We ask that you let us know in advance when possible so we can minimize disruption to the classroom routine.

Question 24

How do you handle birthdays and celebrations?

Accepted Answer

We love celebrating children! Please speak with your child's teacher about how your family would like to mark the occasion. We ask that any food brought in for celebrations comply with our allergy and nutrition guidelines.

Question 25

How do you keep children safe?

Accepted Answer

We use a controlled entry system, maintain age-appropriate supervision ratios, conduct regular safety drills, and follow strict protocols for pickup authorization. Visit our Safety page for a full overview.

Question 26

What happens if my child gets sick at school?

Accepted Answer

If a child becomes ill during the day, we will separate them from the group and contact the family immediately. We follow Texas HHSC illness exclusion guidelines to protect the health of all children and staff.

Question 27

What is your policy on sick children?

Accepted Answer

Children who are ill should not attend school. We ask families to keep children home if they have a fever, vomiting, diarrhea, or any contagious illness. Children must be symptom-free for the required period before returning, per HHSC guidelines.

Question 28

Do you administer medication?

Accepted Answer

Please contact us directly about our medication administration policy, as this involves specific documentation and authorization requirements under Texas licensing rules.

Question 29

What are your allergy policies?

Accepted Answer

We take allergies seriously. Please disclose any known allergies during enrollment so we can take appropriate precautions. We work with families to create a safe environment for children with food allergies or other sensitivities.

Question 30

Are staff trained in first aid and CPR?

Accepted Answer

We are committed to maintaining trained staff. Please verify current certification status with our director, as requirements and schedules may vary.

Question 31

How much does tuition cost?

Accepted Answer

Tuition varies by program and schedule. Visit our Tuition page for current rates, or contact us directly for a personalized quote based on your child's age and your schedule needs.

Question 32

How is tuition paid?

Accepted Answer

Tuition is paid on a weekly basis through Tuition Express, a secure electronic payment system designed specifically for childcare centers. You can set up one-time payments or automatic drafts.

Question 33

Do you offer financial assistance or subsidies?

Accepted Answer

We encourage families who need financial assistance to explore the Texas Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) through the Texas Workforce Commission. Contact us for more information about whether we accept subsidies.

Question 34

What is your policy on late payments?

Accepted Answer

Please contact us directly for our current late payment policy.

Question 35

What is your refund or withdrawal policy?

Accepted Answer

Please contact us directly for our current withdrawal and refund policy, as this may vary based on enrollment type and notice given.

Question 36

How will I know what my child did during the day?

Accepted Answer

Teachers are available at drop-off and pickup for brief check-ins. Any incident involving your child is documented and communicated the same day. We encourage ongoing conversation and welcome questions at any time.

Question 37

How do I communicate with my child's teacher?

Accepted Answer

You can speak with your child's teacher at drop-off or pickup, or contact us by phone or email to schedule a more in-depth conversation. We want communication to be easy and open.

Question 38

Do you hold parent-teacher conferences?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We believe in regular, meaningful communication with families about their child's development. Ask us about our current conference schedule during your tour or enrollment process.

Question 39

Can I volunteer or be involved in the classroom?

Accepted Answer

We welcome family involvement. Please speak with your child's teacher or our director about opportunities to participate in classroom activities or school events.

General

Enrollment

Curriculum & Learning

Daily Life

Safety & Health

Tuition & Payments

Communication & Family Involvement

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