About
LadyBug Academy
Who We Are at LadyBug Academy
At LadyBug Academy, we specialize in early childhood education for young learners. Our preschool embraces the Reggio Emilia approach, which celebrates children’s innate curiosity, creativity, and ability to generate powerful ideas.
What Makes Us Unique?
- Collaborative Learning: Our dedicated teachers foster a collaborative and hands-on learning environment.
- Active Participation: Children actively participate in the learning process, developing their own understanding of the world around them.
Join Us!
At LadyBug Academy, we empower children to explore, create, and thrive!
Our Method
The Reggio Emilia Approach at LadyBug Academy
At LadyBug Academy, we embrace the Reggio Emilia teaching and learning method, which is built on the philosophy that children are brimming with curiosity, creativity, and powerful ideas. Unlike traditional teaching methods that position the teacher as the sole source of knowledge and view children as empty vessels, the Reggio Emilia curriculum sees children as active participants in their own learning journey.
Key Principles of Reggio Emilia:
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Active Participation: Children are empowered to construct and define their own learning experiences as they explore their curiosity and creativity.
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Expressive Learning: This approach encourages expressive learning, a method proven to yield deeper and more enduring outcomes for children.
Join Us at LadyBug Academy!
Experience the transformative power of the Reggio Emilia approach, where your child’s natural curiosity and creativity drive meaningful learning!
The Reggio Emilia Approach at LadyBug Academy
1. Active Participation in Learning
At LadyBug Academy, children are active participants in their learning journey. Topics for exploration and planned activities are determined collaboratively by children and their teachers. These child-initiated explorations create opportunities for hands-on learning across various subjects, including math, language arts, science, and social studies. Children express their interests and needs through multiple languages—gestures, words, dance, and more. This child-centered approach encourages self-expression and fosters increased engagement and enthusiasm for learning.
2. A Nurturing Classroom Environment
Our classroom is built on shared relationships among children, teachers, and parents, creating a sense of belonging for each child. This nurturing environment allows children to thrive socially and emotionally while cultivating their overall well-being.
3. Collaboration Between Teachers and Parents
At LadyBug Academy, we believe collaboration between teachers and parents is essential to the learning process. Parents are the primary influencers in their children's lives and serve as invaluable resources in their learning journey. We prioritize open communication and partnership with parents to support each child's growth and development.
4. Brightwheel: A Key Tool for Documentation
Documenting each child’s daily activities is crucial for monitoring their development. Our Brightwheel app serves as a vital link between educators and parents, recording health checks, activities, meals, potty habits, incidents/accidents, and general notes. This app facilitates constructive communication, ensuring each child’s daily routine is as comfortable and enriching as possible.
Join Us at LadyBug Academy!
Experience a collaborative environment where parents and teachers work together to support your child's learning and development!
Meet Our Founder: A Passionate Advocate for Children’s Well-Being
Aleksandra Razavi
As the owner and Executive Director of LadyBug Academy, I am dedicated to providing quality childcare and early education to children and families in Arlington, VA. My name is Aleksandra (Ola), and I grew up in Poland, where I earned a Masters in Sociology from the University of Warsaw. I also have a certificate degree in Survey Design and Data Analysis from George Washington University. I live in Arlington with my three children, who inspire me every day to create a nurturing environment for children. My journey in this business began in 2013 when I was searching for daycare options for my son. I was shocked to find a stunning lack of quality care options in Arlington and the surrounding areas. I realized I had to do something about it, so I created LadyBug Academy. Working with children and running my own business has been a life-changing experience for me. It brings me unbelievable joy and fulfillment every single day. There is nothing better than watching children develop, learn, and grow. At LadyBug Academy, we believe that each child is unique and deserves personalized attention and care. Our attention to detail and warm touch are the essence of our brand. We know that parents want to feel confident that their children are in the best hands, and we strive to exceed their expectations every day. If you’re looking for a nurturing environment for your child, we invite you to visit LadyBug Academy.
Meet Our Team
Merrifield Campus: LadyBug 1
Mikea Green
Program Assistant
Hello my name is Mikea Green from Alexandria, VA. I am the new Program Assistant at Ladybug Academy. I am a dedicated professional with a commitment to working with children. My journey of child education and care began at the age of 15, where I started babysitting. From those early experiences, I developed a profound understanding of the joys and challenges of nurturing young minds. Throughout my educational journey, I’ve remained deeply involved with children, even while attending college getting a degree in Communications and Marketing at Claflin University. I’ve dedicated my time to volunteering at the Boys and Girls Club and the YMCA, while also directing a facility just last year where I provided support, mentorship, and guidance to children from diverse backgrounds. My passion for working with children stems from my desire to make a positive impact on their lives. I believe that every child deserves to be heard, valued, and empowered to reach their full potential. Witnessing the growth, development, and resilience of children inspires me on a profound level. I’ve decided to work at Ladybug academy because I believe in Ms.Ola’s business her approach with the same love, care, and attention that she gives to her these children. What's more, I genuinely enjoy the camaraderie and teamwork among my coworkers. We share a common goal of creating a nurturing and stimulating environment for the children under our care. One interesting fact about me is that I have a passion for creativity and movement. During my free time, you'll often find me in the art of painting. Whether it's on canvas or paper, painting allows me to express my inner thoughts, emotions, and inspirations in unique and beautiful ways. In addition to painting, I find joy in dance. Movement has always been a form of self-expression for me, whether it's through contemporary, hip-hop, or classical styles. Furthermore, I am also an enthusiastic cheerleader. The energy, teamwork, and spirit of cheerleading exhilarate me. Being part of a team, lifting spirits, and spreading positivity through cheers and routines bring me immense fulfillment and happiness.
Arlington Courthouse
Cooper Yancey
Lead Teacher
Hello! My name is Cooper Yancey. I am a Lead Teacher at LadyBug Academy 2. I received my Bachelor of Science in Sociology from Old Dominion University. I am from a small town in Virginia named Louisa County. As far back as I can remember, I have always wanted to work with young children. They bring a certain energy and purpose-driven mentality out of me. I’m just a man pursuing my dreams to create a positive impact on future generations. There are many reasons as to why I chose the position at Ladybug Academy 2. I simply love working with children. LadyBug has a great work atmosphere, and I’m looking to better myself through this wonderful opportunity. An interesting fact about me, I believe there is a way to create world peace through patience, active listening, and learning from each other's experiences.