Lil' People's World Early Learning Center was first established in Kirkland Washington in 1993 by Deanna Merkatz, whom holds a degree in business. The motivation behind the first Learning Center was the lack of quality family based child-care centers in the area. It has been the goal to Lil' People's World to build a meaningful partnership with each family that empowers the children to be strong,
confident, successful lifelong learners. After a successful start, the Bellevue location was soon opened to promote growth of the company and the building of communities around the facilities. The facilities provided jobs within the community and rates that were affordable for a variety of families. As Deanna stepped out and was able to focus on the business as a whole, the team grew and did the business. (Bringing in the General Manager, Shawn Graves-MacLeod and Director, Jessica Cullen to oversee the growing company, they brought new ideas to the table.) After years of progression with two great locations, together as a team, Deanna, Shawn, and Jessica opened the Seattle location in 2007. Bringing a new modern twist and innovative curriculum, the opening of Seattle was more than a success. In 2009 the Lynnwood location was opened and on the way to a great start. We see all children as capable, intuitive, intelligent, expressive, and curious individuals. As teachers, it is important that we build on their strength to help them develop the skills to work through challenging moments. We achieve this by providing them with an environment that stimulates and fosters this growth, curiosity, and their social and emotional development. We recognize each child’s unique interests and use those as the starting point to expand their knowledge in a plethora of subjects. The plans of the future of Lil' People's World are to provide families, communities, and children with positive early childhood education experiences and to grow to accommodate different locations around the Puget Sound area. It has been the goal of Lil' People's World to build a meaningful partnership with each family that empowers the children to be strong, confident, successful lifelong learners.
