Finally, we are beginning to get a hint of cooler weather here in middle Tennessee. Hopefully, we will see some real fall temperatures soon so we can roast some marshmallows over a roaring fire. And speaking of fire, we are talking about fire safety this month – from candles to burning building!

With the invention of smoke detectors, schools and facilities like The Academy are much safer than in the “old” days. Then, you had one red fire alarm box on the wall per floor (if you were lucky). But just like in the “old” days, we still have fire drills. In this photo you can see that all our children and staff at The Academy of Harpeth Village “got out safely” during the fire drill.
Fire drills are just one way we ensure your child’s safety and well-being at the Academy. But our staff is trained for many different types of emergencies. Learn more about our teacher certifications in CPR and SIDS.
At the lower end of the fire safety spectrum, we are talking about the things around us in our homes that could burn us. We talk about things that get hot, and things they should not get close to. We’re talking about the burners on a range top, candles, lighters, matches, portable heaters, etc.
We hope that you will take time this month to talk about fire safety in your home. Every family should have an escape plan in case of fire. And it’s a good idea to discuss possible exit routes and exit points. Having a home fire drill is not a bad idea either. Be sure to designate a place outside the home for the family to meet. To add some fun, time the drill and then try to beat the time.
These FAQs share clear details on enrollment, daily routines, learning programs, safety, and what to expect once your child begins at The Academy.
The Academy offers early learning programs designed for children from infancy through Pre-K. Each classroom is built around age-appropriate routines, developmental milestones, and learning goals that support growth at every stage. Children receive the structure they need to feel secure while still having the freedom to explore and learn through play, hands-on activities, and teacher-guided instruction.
We use the Frog Street curriculum to provide consistent learning across classrooms and age groups. This curriculum supports early literacy, communication, motor development, and social-emotional skills through structured themes and purposeful activities. Our teachers follow curriculum-based lesson plans while also adapting the day to each classroom’s pace, helping children stay engaged and supported as they make meaningful progress.
Yes. Enrichment programs are included in tuition and offered throughout the week. These sessions add variety and excitement to a child’s routine by introducing creative activities, movement, cultural exploration, and age-appropriate science experiences. Enrichment helps children build confidence, discover new interests, and stay motivated by adding new learning experiences beyond the core classroom schedule.
Strong parent communication is a key part of a successful childcare experience. Families receive updates through our communication system, which may include daily reports, photos, and important notes about meals, naps, or classroom moments. Our team aims to keep families informed, reduce surprises, and create consistent support between home and school throughout the year.
Safety is a top priority at every Academy location. Our centers follow structured protocols for drop-off and pickup, classroom supervision, and daily accountability. Staff are trained to maintain safe routines and consistent classroom expectations while supporting children in a calm environment. During a tour, families can learn more about entry procedures, classroom organization, and how we prioritize safety every day.
The easiest way to schedule a tour is by submitting the tour request form on our website. Once we receive your information, a team member will follow up to confirm availability, answer initial questions, and help you choose the best program for your child’s age. Tours are a great time to explore classrooms, learn about daily routines, and better understand the Academy experience.
Before your child starts, our team will share a simple list of items based on your child’s classroom and age group. Most families bring labeled supplies such as extra clothing, diapers or pull-ups if needed, wipes, and any approved comfort items. Teachers will also guide you through routines for drop-off, communication updates, and what to expect during your child’s first few days.