Question 1

Do you take Step Up For Kids?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we are homeschool PEP scholarship and Unique Ability providers only.

Question 2

What makes Developing Minds different from other schools?

Accepted Answer

Developing Minds is a modern learning center designed for today’s world. We support students under homeschool instruction. We prioritize 21st-century skills, like creativity, critical thinking, and emotional intelligence, over rote memorization. Our play-based, inquiry-driven model prepares children not just for learning, but for life.

Question 3

What ages and grades do you serve?

Accepted Answer

We currently serve children ages 4-10 (Pre-K through- 5th grade) with plans to expand  services into middle and high school.

Question 4

What happens past 5th grade (Age 11)?

Accepted Answer

We will continue adding services in our instructional model,  one grade level per year. Our goal is to serve children all the way up until they finish their homeschool journey,  up to 12th grade.

Question 5

What is play-based learning?

Accepted Answer

Play-based learning is a research-backed approach where children explore academic and life concepts through hands-on, open-ended play. It honors each child’s natural curiosity and builds skills in a developmentally appropriate way.

Question 6

Will my child still learn core subjects like math, reading, and science?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely. We teach all core subjects, math, science, literacy, and social studies, through experiential, project-based learning while aligning with Common Core standards. Children learn deeply by doing, not just memorizing.

Question 7

Do students receive homework?

Accepted Answer

Only when it’s meaningful. We don’t believe in drills or busywork. Homework is offered only when it enriches learning or strengthens family connection, never as a default requirement. Most learning happens at the learning center, where it belongs.

Question 8

What is your class size and student-teacher ratio?

Accepted Answer

Our groups are intentionally small. Each multi-age group includes up to 16 students, but children are often grouped into smaller ability-specific clusters of 8–10 for instructional purposes. We maintain an average 1:10 teacher-to-student ratio for personalized learning.

Question 9

What are your  hours of operation and do you offer early or afternoon care?

Accepted Answer

• Learning Center Day: 8:30 AM – 2:30 PM
 •  Care: We don't provide care
 • Extended Day: Enrichment programs offered from 2:30 PM – 5:30 PM
These programs include play, creativity, movement, and community-centered learning opportunities.

Question 10

How is progress assessed without constant testing?

Accepted Answer

We prioritize authentic, ongoing assessments to truly understand each child’s growth. Our educators use daily observations, student portfolios, and student-led conferences to gain deep insights into every child’s academic, social, and emotional development. This holistic approach ensures that learning is personalized and meaningful.
While we administer standardized assessments twice a year, we use this data solely as a tool to inform instruction, not to define it. At Developing Minds, we don't teach to the test; we teach to the child.

Question 11

What does “multi-age classroom” mean and why do you use it?

Accepted Answer

Multi-age learning fosters leadership, collaboration, and individualized pacing. Children are grouped by readiness, not strictly by age, creating space for mentoring, peer learning, and natural differentiation.

Question 12

What is your approach to mental health and wellness?

Accepted Answer

Our model is designed to protect and nurture healthy brain development. This includes:

• Purposeful play and movement
 • A nutrition-informed food culture
 • Rest and emotional regulation
 • Intentional technology use

Embedded social-emotional learning throughout the day

Question 13

How do you use technology in the classroom?

Accepted Answer

Technology is used thoughtfully and minimally. For younger students, we focus on hands-on learning and human connection. Beginning in 5th grade, students may use tech as a tool for research, creativity, and collaboration, only when it supports healthy, age-appropriate development.

Question 14

Are your teachers certified and trained?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Our educators are certified, experienced, and trained in child development, play-based methodology, and wellness-informed education. Ongoing professional development ensures we stay aligned with the latest research in mental health and learning science.

Question 15

Do you support students with different learning needs or special needs?

Accepted Answer

Yes, and it’s central to who we are. At Developing Minds, we believe that every child deserves to thrive during their school day, not just in after-school interventions.
We offer built-in learning support services as part of our daily schedule, so children can receive the help they need without missing out on play, community, or enrichment. In our initial phase, we provide specialized support for:
 • Speech and language therapy
 • Occupational therapy (OT)
 • Learning challenges such as dysgraphia, dyscalculia, and dyslexia
 • Executive functioning support
At this early stage of our program, we may not yet be equipped or have the resources to fully support moderate to severe cases requiring more intensive or highly specialized intervention needing 1-1 instruction. In such cases, we will work closely with families to determine whether our current resources can ensure the best environment for their child to thrive.

To further support our commitment to child development, we also provide after-school options for speech, occupational therapy, and academic support, along with seasonal community events designed to strengthen play, learning, and developmental skills. As we grow, our goal is to expand these services and deepen our ability to meet a broader spectrum of needs within our inclusive and developmentally appropriate model.

The cited above services are offered on-site through specialized professionals and billed additionally based on the service plan. As we grow, we aim to expand our offerings to include broader developmental and behavioral supports. Our goal is to provide inclusive, responsive, and affirming instruction for all learners, within the rhythm of their school day.

Question 16

How does diversity influence the way you approach education and shape your learning environments?

Accepted Answer

Developing Minds values inclusion as the cornerstone of quality education. It thrives as a diverse learning community where differences are not only respected but celebrated as essential reflections of the broader world.

Our school believes that how we perceive a child’s potential shapes their success. Diversity is not a linear journey, it is consistently evolving, deeply integrated into our school’s culture, programs, and interactions. Developing Minds strives to create a safe, connected environment where everyone feels encouraged to explore and appreciate differences through open dialogue.
By embracing diversity, equity, and inclusion, Developing Minds equips its students to engage confidently and thoughtfully with the world, fostering mutual understanding and growth for all.

Question 17

Is Developing Minds Learning Center affiliated with any religion?

Accepted Answer

No, Developing Minds Learning Center is a non-religious, secular institution. We do not teach or practice any religion, ensuring an inclusive environment that respects the diverse beliefs of all our students and their families.

Question 18

Is Developing Minds Learning Center inclusive of all genders?

Accepted Answer

Yes, Developing Minds Learning Center is fully inclusive. We welcome students of all gender identities and expressions. Our curriculum, policies, and school environment are designed to support and respect every student, ensuring a safe, nurturing, and respectful space for all.

Question 19

Does Developing Minds Learning Center offer VPK (Voluntary Prekindergarten)?

Accepted Answer

No, Developing Minds Learning Center does not participate in the VPK program. However, we offer a high-quality, play-based early childhood enrichment program designed to support your child’s learning and development starting age 4.

More Than a School
A Movement in Education

Serving children ages 4–10 in Lake Nona, Orlando

Our Philosophy: Education Designed for Healthy Minds

Play-Based Learning

Multi-Age Classrooms

Mindful Technology Use

Healthy Nutrition

Rest & Routine:

Positive & Collaborative Attitudes

Step 1: Virtual Information Session

Step 2: Application & Fee

Step 3: Play-Based Observation

Step 4: Learning Center Visit, Assessment & Family Interview

Step 5: Admissions Decision

Our Promise

Spots are extremely limited due to our learning center model.

More Than a School A Movement in Education