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happyhappenshere.

From Infant through preschool, we make early education and daycare joyful, engaging and fun so children are happy to learn, play and grow.

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Curriculum that develops the whole child

Our L.E.A.P.® (Learning Experience Academic Program) Curriculum uses fun, hands-on activities throughout early education to help children develop intellectually, socially and cognitively. Or as we say, to learn, play and grow.

Learn More About Our Curriculum

Characters that bring learning to life

Children love learning from characters—and studies show that it’s highly effective especially in preschool and early education. TLE® has a cast of unique, beloved characters, each one teaching children a new value or activity.

Bubbles and Friends Theme Song

261K subscribers and 60,480,577 views

Grace & Charity

Our dynamic doggy duo introduces the importance of being generous and giving.

Bubbles

Our lovable friend who takes you on a daily adventure that makes kids happy to learn, play and grow.

Lionstein®

Our wise and creative scientist who makes science fun and exciting.

Phoebe

Our literature loving llama makes reading fun.

Two Plus Toucan

Our creative mathematician helps explore the joys of math.

Penny

Our well-mannered etiquette coach demonstrates the importance of being helpful, honest, and kind.

Sonar

Our adventurous submarine reveals the many wonders of the underwater world.

Pablo

Our creative and artsy pig helps children discover the beauty of self-expression.

Gibby

Our kind-hearted, hard-of-hearing gibbon loves to share his passion for sign language and promoting inclusivity.

Success measured in happy stories

See what parents are saying about TLE Childcare Centers.

Lauren

R.
2 months ago
We have been incredibly happy at The Learning Experience. The leadership in place (Heather and Sam) are warm and always there to listen to challenges or help you brainstorm solutions. They work as a great team and are always available. Our daughter is in the infant room and we’ve been imp... Read more

Lauren

R.
2 months ago
We have been incredibly happy at The Learning Experience. The leadership in place (Heather and Sam) are warm and always there to listen to challenges or help you brainstorm solutions. They work as a great team and are always available. Our daughter is in the infant room and we’ve been impressed by the warmth of Kirra, Makayla, Jenna, and Amber. These women not only make sure my daughter is safe and well loved, but also have built relationships with me which makes me feel good about dropping her off daily. Kirra came up with my daughter’s nickname, Makayla and Jenna helped me get my daughter taking regular naps, and Amber is the first to help with a ponytail or tell me about her day. Joe has also subbed in this room and he has this uncanny ability to make my daughter smile and laugh. A big win at 7 mo! Highly recommend this incredible team!

William

G
6 months ago
My infant son attends TLE Grand Rapids, it has been an amazing adventure watching him bond, learn and grow at the center. His face lights up every time he sees any of the teachers! Thank you TLE for providing a safe and reliable center for my son to spend his days at.

William

G
6 months ago
My infant son attends TLE Grand Rapids, it has been an amazing adventure watching him bond, learn and grow at the center. His face lights up every time he sees any of the teachers! Thank you TLE for providing a safe and reliable center for my son to spend his days at.

Meet our TLE® Center team

Sarah Leece

Regional Manager

Favorite TLE® Character: Bubbles

Sarah Leece

Regional Manager

Favorite TLE® Character: Bubbles

My name is Sarah Leece, and I am the Regional Manager at TLE. I started as a lead Pre-K Teacher in 2007 then became Program Director in 2011, then recently Regional Manager for Michigan. I earned my Bachelor’s Degree in Elementary Education from Eastern Michigan University in 2002. I grew up and currently live in South Lyon with my husband Ben, and my two kids Benny and Sydney. I love being able work and live in the local community. In my spare time I enjoy spending time with my family, traveling up-north, and relaxing with a good book (whenever I have the chance). I love being part of TLE and most of all getting to know all of our families that choose to have their children here and be part of our TLE Family!

Mollie Blixt

President of Operations

Favorite TLE® Character: Bubbles

Mollie Blixt

President of Operations

Favorite TLE® Character: Bubbles

I started with TLE in December 2006 and have dedicated many years in striving to be the best. It has been an exciting journey as we started in Michigan where we have 6 successful schools, as well as our location in the Northern Chicago area (Gurnee, IL). I graduated from CMU with a Bachelor's in Child Development and had been a Director for over 13 years before moving on to my role as as V.P. of Operations for our franchises. Prior to that, I was a preschool teacher for 5 years. I have a passion for working with children and enjoy mentoring the staff to ensure that we are providing the safest and most nurturing environment for all children in our care. I am a very busy mom to 3 boys! We travel all over the country for sports and I love every minute of it. Every one of our schools has a story, and I can't wait to continue writing them all!

Samantha

Assistant Director

Favorite TLE® Character: Flexi Flamingo

Samantha

Assistant Director

Favorite TLE® Character: Flexi Flamingo

Samantha's goal for the center is to provide each teacher and children an educational experience that is enjoyable, impactful and important. She has her bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education Administration. Samantha has experience with all ages but spent most of her classroom time with toddlers. Her and her husband have one precious son, two rowdy dogs and one clingy cat.

Cynthia Umphrey

Owner

Favorite TLE® Character: Grace Charity

Cynthia Umphrey

Owner

Favorite TLE® Character: Grace Charity

Cyndi has a law degree from the University of Michigan and has practiced as a business and estate lawyer in Oakland County for over 20 years. She entered the early childhood education arena in 2006 when she, Mollie and Richard opened the South Lyon TLE. She still works as a lawyer, but makes frequent appearances at the school as characters like an alien game show host, a mermaid, “Sailor Sue”, Thing One, etc. Cyndi has a lifelong commitment to the importance of childhood education, enjoying mentoring opportunities with local grade schools. Still practicing as a lawyer, Cyndi’s primary role at TLE is to support Mollie and the teachers and to facilitate their growth and education so the care they provide to your children is the very best. Cyndi helped to adopt and lives by our mission of Providing the best for our children, our families & the community.

Lucy

Infant Teacher

Favorite TLE® Character: Flexi Flamingo

Lucy

Infant Teacher

Favorite TLE® Character: Flexi Flamingo

My classroom goal is to create a bond with each in a fun and exciting environment.

Cora

Infant Teacher

Favorite TLE® Character: Techni Cal

Cora

Infant Teacher

Favorite TLE® Character: Techni Cal

My classroom goal is to provide a safe and reliable environment to every child

Ondraya

Infant Lead

Favorite TLE® Character: Bubbles

Ondraya

Infant Lead

Favorite TLE® Character: Bubbles

I plan to go back to school for a Bachelors degree in Elementary Education. I would love to expand my career to Special Education.

Nathan

Toddler Teacher

Favorite TLE® Character: Bubbles

Nathan

Toddler Teacher

Favorite TLE® Character: Bubbles

My classroom goal is to create strong bonds with every child in my classroom while providing consistent care.

Sam

Toddler Teacher

Favorite TLE® Character: Phoebe Phonics

Sam

Toddler Teacher

Favorite TLE® Character: Phoebe Phonics

I am 26 years old and have worked in child care for 4.5 years. I have a 2 year old daughter and 2 fluffy Pomeranians. I hope to create a fun, safe, and inviting classroom

Jenna

Toddler Teacher

Favorite TLE® Character: Techni Cal

Jenna

Toddler Teacher

Favorite TLE® Character: Techni Cal

My classroom goal is to get the children prepared for their next educational experience. I have one son and engaged!

Bre

Resource Teacher

Favorite TLE® Character: Bubbles

Bre

Resource Teacher

Favorite TLE® Character: Bubbles

I am a triplet of all girls. I love to go hiking and camping with my family, my favorite season is fall.

Lillian

Resource Teacher

Favorite TLE® Character: Flexi Flamingo

Lillian

Resource Teacher

Favorite TLE® Character: Flexi Flamingo

I plan on going into Law school in the future. I want to gain educational experience with children to expand my skills and make a difference.

Zach

Twaddler Teacher

Favorite TLE® Character: Bubbles

Zach

Twaddler Teacher

Favorite TLE® Character: Bubbles

My classroom goal is to help create strong friendships between my little learners.

Mandy

Lead Twaddler Teacher

Favorite TLE® Character: Bubbles

Mandy

Lead Twaddler Teacher

Favorite TLE® Character: Bubbles

I have my Bachelor’s degree in Social Work from CMU and working toward a Child Development Accreditation Certificate. I have 3+ years in Foster Care and 1+ years in Early Childhood. My classroom goals are to create a foundation for happy and successful tiny humans.

Grace

Prepper Teacher

Favorite TLE® Character: Grace Charity

Grace

Prepper Teacher

Favorite TLE® Character: Grace Charity

I attended GRCC for culinary, but when I finished, I decided I wanted to work with kid's full time. I live in the Grand Rapids area but was raised in Byron Center

Joe

Preschool Teacher

Favorite TLE® Character: Bubbles

Joe

Preschool Teacher

Favorite TLE® Character: Bubbles

I am currently attending school for my associates in Early Childhood Education. My classroom goal is to be able to teach kids as well as learn from them. A personal goal is to live until I’m 100 years old!

Caleb

Preschool Teacher

Favorite TLE® Character: Penny Polite

Caleb

Preschool Teacher

Favorite TLE® Character: Penny Polite

My classroom goal is to create an environment where mistakes can be made, big emotions are understood and fun can be had

David

Lead Preschool Teacher

Favorite TLE® Character: Techni Cal

David

Lead Preschool Teacher

Favorite TLE® Character: Techni Cal

He has his bachelor's degree in elementary education from Olivet Nazarene. His classroom goals are to guide students through a variety of activities to develop their skills for kindergarten.

Steve

Preschool Teacher

Favorite TLE® Character: Om

Steve

Preschool Teacher

Favorite TLE® Character: Om

My classroom goal is to make a fun, safe learning environment in an exciting atmosphere.

Anneka

Resource Teacher

Favorite TLE® Character: Flexi Flamingo

Anneka

Resource Teacher

Favorite TLE® Character: Flexi Flamingo

I am going to Calvin University for Elementary Education and specializing in Social Studies and Science I hope to learn how to grow stronger relationships with kids.

Ikram

Resource Teacher

Favorite TLE® Character: Bubbles

Ikram

Resource Teacher

Favorite TLE® Character: Bubbles

I am a very patient person. My goal is to unite all the children and create a positive environment

Bobbi

Kitchen Staff

Favorite TLE® Character: Bubbles

Bobbi

Kitchen Staff

Favorite TLE® Character: Bubbles

My kitchen goal is to provide every child a healthy, balanced meal. I enjoy being in the kitchen and having positive interactions with children.

Many ways to stay connected

We offer an easy-to-use smartphone app and an array of ways to help you stay connected.

Monthly newsletters and invitations to our community events

Monthly calendars

Everyday photos of your little learner

Blog to help you stay with the current trends

Notifications of your child’s learning activities

Social media

Upcoming events

6
October

World Smile Day

Let's celebrate World Smile Day - show us your biggest SMILE today!

9
October

Closed - Staff Development Day!

Columbus Day!

26
October

National Pumpkin Day

National Pumpkin Day recognizes a favored autumn decoration and food on October 26th. Not only do they make great fall decorations, but the pumpkin also completes a variety of tasty recipes

28
October

National Make A Difference Day

This national day is devoted to helping others

31
October

Happy Halloween

Trick or Treat 🎃

23
November

Happy Birthday!

Ms. Sam!

23
November

Closed

Thanksgiving Break!

24
November

Closed

Thanksgiving Break!

2
January

Happy Birthday!

Ms. Samantha!

4
January

Happy Birthday!

Mr. Nathan!

4
January

Happy Birthday!

Mr. Steve!

15
January

Happy Birthday!

Ms. Lillian!

28
January

Happy Birthday!

Mr. Caleb!

5
February

Happy Birthday!

Mr. David

21
March

Happy Birthday!

Ms. Anneka

24
May

Happy Birthday!

Ms. Cora!

6
June

Happy Birthday!

Ms. Ikram

10
June

Happy Birthday!

Ms. Ikram!

27
June

Happy Birthday!

Mr. Zachary!

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