

What to Expect
Learn about our play-based, multi-age learning model
Explore how we integrate neuroscience, wellness, and creativity into daily learning
Understand our approach to screen use, nutrition, sleep, and social-emotional development
Meet our leadership team and connect with other like-minded families
Meet Our Founder & Lead Educator
Mariana Carazo – Founder, Head of School, Pedagogy & Curriculum
Mariana Carazo is not just the founder and Head of School at Developing Minds—she is the heart and visionary force behind a bold educational revolution. With a Master’s degree in Curriculum & Teaching from Columbia University and over two decades of experience leading curriculum innovation and pedagogical transformation, Mariana has devoted her life to redefining what learning can be. An expert in play-based, inquiry-driven education, she has built her own learning lab from the ground up—transforming a humble garage into a thriving micro-school and proving that true learning flourishes when children are given freedom, purpose, and joy. Her mission goes far beyond opening a school—Mariana is pioneering a movement to restore childhood, replace outdated practices with brain-aligned teaching, and create learning environments where each child is empowered to think, lead, and love learning. Her story is one of courage, creativity, and commitment to a future where education meets the needs of this century—not the last.

Who Should Attend

This session is designed for parents and guardians exploring enrollment at Developing Minds. We kindly ask that children stay home so that families can fully engage with the experience.
Why It Matters
Attending this session is required as part of the admissions process. It ensures alignment between your family’s values and our educational philosophy—and gives you a chance to ask meaningful questions.

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What makes Developing Minds different from other schools?Developing Minds is a modern learning center designed for today’s world. 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 school, but for life.
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What ages and grades do you serve?We currently serve children from Pre-K through 5th grade, with plans to expand into middle and high school.
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What is play-based learning?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.
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Will my child still learn core subjects like math, reading, and science?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.
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Do students receive homework?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 school, where it belongs.
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What is your class size and student-teacher ratio?Our classrooms are intentionally small. Each multi-age group includes up to 20 students, but children are often grouped into smaller ability-specific clusters of 8–10. We maintain an average 1:10 teacher-to-student ratio for personalized learning.
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What are your hours of operation and do you offer early or afternoon care?Learning Center Day: 8:30 AM – 2:30 PM Early Care: Available from 7:30 AM – 8:30 AM Extended Day: Enrichment programs offered from 2:30 PM – 5:30 PM These programs include play, creativity, movement, and community-centered learning opportunities.
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How is progress assessed without constant testing?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.
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What does “multi-age classroom” mean and why do you use it?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.
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What is your approach to mental health and wellness?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
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How do you use technology in the classroom?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.
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Are your teachers certified and trained?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.
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Do you support students with different learning needs or special needs?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.
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How does diversity influence the way you approach education and shape your learning environments?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.
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Do you take Step Up For Kids?Yes, we will be taking PEP and UA only.