The Formative
HouseMore than daycare.
A boutique early childhood development program for children ages 1½ to 5. Founded by a Master’s-level Psychologist specializing in early childhood behavior and development. Building our waitlist for Summer 2026.
“Not a daycare. A development program. The difference is everything.”
Most childcare is built around supervision. The Formative House is built around development — grounded in behavioral science, limited to six children, and led by a psychologist who started this because she knew what was missing.
An intentional program
for an intentional family.
Every decision — the group size, the physical environment, the daily rhythm — traces back to one question: what does this child actually need to flourish?
Grounded in Science
Every routine, environment, and interaction is built on the behavioral science of how young children actually develop. Our founder holds a Master’s in Psychology and applies it every single day — not as a credential, as a practice.
Truly Small
Six children. Always. Not because licensing requires it — because genuine developmental relationships require real, unhurried attention. Every child here is known deeply from week one.
Built for School Readiness
Language. Confidence. Independence. Emotional regulation. The skills that define how a child experiences kindergarten are built here, deliberately, long before that door opens.
Behavioral science
meets childhood.
Montessori-informed routines combined with evidence-based behavioral strategies — an environment where children grow with intention, not just fill time until pickup.
The right environment, consistent relationships, and purposeful structure in the first years shape everything that follows.
Rich vocabulary, story, and real conversation woven through every part of the day
Children learn who they are through consistent, affirming relationship and earned independence
Co-regulation practiced patiently until children can navigate big feelings on their own
Attention, classroom behaviors, and social-emotional skills built well before kindergarten
Structure that
feels like home.
Predictable routines are the foundation of a young child’s sense of safety. Our days follow a consistent, unhurried rhythm — designed around how children actually regulate, learn, and rest. The pace is the point.
Circle time, structured Montessori activities, and language-rich interaction when children are freshest
Nature-based sensory play, big-body movement, and real freedom to explore — rain or shine
Family-style eating that builds conversation, independence, and a genuine sense of community
Quiet time for the youngest, open-ended creative materials for older children
Everything that matters,
included.
One enrollment, full program. No add-ons, no curriculum fees, no surprises. Complete transparency from day one.
Breakfast, lunch, and afternoon snack daily. Real food. Dietary needs accommodated.
Live access throughout the day. Peace of mind built in — not an add-on.
Mood, meals, milestones, and moments — communicated personally, every single day.
Regular progress notes from a psychologist — a real record of your child’s growth over time.
Wooden toys, open-ended materials, a curated space that invites curiosity without overstimulating.
Not a rotation of staff. One invested professional who knows your child deeply from day one.
Play is often talked about as if it were a relief from serious learning. But for children, play is serious learning. Play is really the work of childhood.
Early Childhood Behavior & Development
CPR & First Aid · Mandated Reporter
@theformativehouse
“I started The Formative House because I wanted to build what I couldn’t find… and what I knew children deserved.”
With a Master’s in Psychology and a specialization in early childhood behavior and development, every element of The Formative House is intentional. The materials on the shelf, the structure of the day, the way each child is spoken to — none of it is accidental.
This is a home. It runs like one. Children here are known — by name, by temperament, by what makes them light up — from their first week through their last day. Six children makes that possible. That’s the whole point.
Building our
waitlist.
We’re intentionally keeping this small — spots will fill before we open our doors. Families who join now get priority enrollment and a personal conversation with Justine before we launch.
Reserve your spot.
Tell us about your family — Justine will reach out personally within 48 hours. No commitment required.
You’re on the list.
Justine will be in touch within 48 hours.
Thank you for trusting us with your family.