Now enrolling · Odenton, MD area

Where children learn by doing

A research-based HighScope early learning program in a family home in Odenton's Two Rivers community, led by a degreed early childhood educator and former Team Lead at a nationally accredited child care center.

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Playroom
Our approach

Four pillars of intentional
early learning

Two Rivers Little Minnows brings a center-quality educational program into the warmth and individual attention of a family home.

HighScope curriculum

The same research-based, plan-do-review framework used by Head Start programs nationwide. Children lead their own learning through active exploration, guided by a trained educator.

Family-size ratio

A maximum of eight children, with no more than two under age 2, ensures every child receives individual attention, meaningful interactions, and the kind of care that larger settings simply can't provide.

Daily parent partnership

Real-time updates, photos, and detailed daily reports through our Brightwheel app. You'll never wonder what your child's day looked like. You'll see it unfold.

Home environment

Children thrive in spaces that feel safe and familiar. Our home setting provides the comfort and stability of a second family, not an institution.

Ana, founder of Two Rivers Little Minnows
Meet your educator

Built on a decade of doing this the right way

Two Rivers Little Minnows was founded by Ana, an early childhood educator with a degree in Early Childhood Education from Eastern Michigan University. Before moving to Maryland, she spent years at Gretchen's House, a highly regarded child care center accredited by NAEYC (the National Association for the Education of Young Children), the gold standard for early learning programs. Gretchen's House is also a HighScope partner, which is where Ana learned the curriculum she uses today. She started there as a new teacher and rose to Team Lead of the Infant/Toddler wing.

At Gretchen's House, she honed a teaching philosophy grounded in one belief: children learn best when they're actively engaged, genuinely curious, and deeply known by the adults who guide them. Two Rivers Little Minnows brings that same standard of care to an intimate home setting.

"I wanted to create a space where every child is seen, where I know their rhythms, their interests, and exactly where they are in their development. That's only possible with a small group and a real relationship with each family."

Early Childhood Education degree, Eastern Michigan University HighScope trained Former Team Lead, Gretchen's House NAEYC-accredited center experience CPR / First Aid certified Maryland license pending
The space

A home designed for learning

Every corner is intentional: open enough to explore, cozy enough to feel safe.

Learning area
Learning area
Reading nook
Reading nook
Creative space
Creative space
Outdoor play
Outdoor play
Rest area
Rest area
Mealtime
Mealtime
A typical day

Structured with intention,
flexible by design

Every day follows the HighScope plan-do-review cycle. Children plan their activities, explore with purpose, and reflect on what they've learned.

8:00 – 9:00 am
Arrival, breakfast & free play
Warm welcome, a healthy breakfast, and settling into the day at each child's own pace.
9:00 – 9:30 am
Morning circle
Group greeting, songs, calendar, and introduction to the day's learning theme.
9:30 – 11:00 am
Plan-do-review
The heart of HighScope. Children choose activities, explore materials, and share what they discovered.
11:00 – 11:45 am
Outdoor exploration
Gross motor play, nature observation, and sensory activities in our outdoor space.
11:45 am – 12:30 pm
Lunch
Nutritious family-style meal. Children serve themselves and practice social skills.
12:30 – 3:00 pm
Rest & quiet time
Nap for younger children, quiet books and activities for those who don't sleep.
3:00 – 4:30 pm
Afternoon activities
Small-group learning, art, music, and hands-on STEM exploration.
4:30 – 6:00 pm
Snack & pickup
Afternoon snack, free play, and smooth transitions home. Daily report sent via Brightwheel.
What families say

Trusted by families who
expect the best

In their own words, from families whose children Ana cared for at Gretchen's House, the nationally accredited center where she taught.

"Ana took care of and taught both of our young boys (age 6 months through 4yo) at Gretchen's House… amongst all the great people working there, Ana stood out as truly exceptional. … We saw Ana grow from being a new staff member to the Team Lead in the Infant/Toddler wing of Gretchen's House in roughly 3 years. … I cannot more strongly recommend Ana to you and your family for the love, care, and growth of your children."
Christian A.
Parent of two, Gretchen's House
"Ana is truly one of those special caregivers you never forget. She cared for two of our three children, and we always felt completely confident knowing they were in her loving, capable hands. She is warm, patient, attentive, and genuinely invested in each child's happiness and development. … Your children will be in wonderful hands with Ana!"
Lucy H.
Parent of three, Gretchen's House
"She was caring, patient, attentive, and genuinely invested in the children in her care. … She did a wonderful job creating a positive atmosphere where my children felt comfortable, cared for, and encouraged to learn and grow. Her kindness, professionalism, and dedication made a lasting impression on our family."
R. M.
Parent of two, Gretchen's House
Program details

Everything you need to know

We believe in transparency. Here's how Two Rivers Little Minnows works.

Program basics

Ages6 weeks – 5 years
Hours8:00 AM – 6:00 PM
DaysMonday – Friday
Group size8 children max, up to 2 under age 2
CurriculumHighScope

What's included

MealsBreakfast, lunch & snack
DiaperingDiapers, wipes & cream provided
Daily reportsVia Brightwheel app
Photos & updatesReal-time throughout the day
Outdoor playDaily, weather permitting
Art & STEMHands-on, daily

Credentials

LicenseMaryland MSDE (pending)
Quality ratingMaryland EXCELS (pending)
TrainingTeam Lead, Gretchen's House (NAEYC-accredited center)
EducationEarly Childhood Education, Eastern Michigan University
SafetyCPR & First Aid certified
FAQ

Common questions

What is the HighScope curriculum?+
HighScope is a research-based educational approach where children learn through active, hands-on experiences. Developed over 60 years of research, it uses a "plan-do-review" process where children choose activities, carry them out, and reflect on what they learned. It's the same framework used by Head Start programs nationwide and has been shown to produce lasting benefits in academic achievement, social skills, and self-regulation.
What ages do you accept?+
We accept children from 6 weeks through 5 years of age, with no more than two children under age 2 at a time. Our mixed-age environment allows younger children to learn from older peers and older children to develop leadership and empathy. It's a natural dynamic that mirrors a family setting.
How do I know what my child did today?+
We use the Brightwheel app to share real-time photos, activity updates, meal logs, nap times, and detailed daily reports throughout the day. You'll see your child's day unfold from your phone, with no waiting until pickup to find out what happened.
What do I need to bring?+
Just your child, dressed for the weather! We provide diapers, wipes, diaper cream, and all meals and snacks, so there's no packing a bag every morning. If your family prefers a specific brand, cloth diapers, or a particular cream for sensitive skin, you're always welcome to bring your own. The same goes for food: if your child has allergies, dietary needs, or religious or cultural preferences, you can send meals from home. Just let us know in advance. We're a nut-free home, so all food from home must be nut-free.
What is your sick policy?+
Children with a fever of 100.4°F or higher, vomiting, or diarrhea must stay home until symptom-free for 24 hours without medication. This protects all children in our small group. Detailed illness policies are outlined in our enrollment agreement.
Do you accept childcare subsidies?+
Our Maryland license and Maryland EXCELS enrollment are currently in process. Once they're approved, we plan to accept Child Care Scholarship (CCS) families. Please contact us to discuss subsidy options for your family.
What are your rates?+
Tuition varies by age and schedule. Please contact us through the enrollment inquiry form below and we'll be happy to share current rates and availability for your child's age group.
Do you have pets in the home?+
Please inquire directly about our current household pets. All animals are kept separate from the childcare space during program hours, and we follow all Maryland licensing requirements for homes with pets.
What about holidays and closures?+
We follow a published annual calendar with closures for major holidays and two professional development days. The calendar is shared at enrollment so families can plan ahead. Tuition is consistent year-round regardless of closures.

Spots are limited.
The waitlist is open.

With a maximum of eight children and only two spots for kids under age 2, availability is limited. Inquire now to secure your child's place in a learning environment built around who they are.

Start your enrollment inquiry
Enrollment inquiry

Let's find the right fit

Tell us about your family and we'll be in touch within 48 hours.

We respond to every inquiry within 48 hours. Your information is kept confidential and never shared.