Ivybrook Academy Tampa Palms

Walk into an Ivybrook Academy classroom, and you will notice something immediately: everything is within a child's reach.

Shelves are low. Materials are organized and accessible. Work areas are clearly defined, not by rules posted on a wall, but by the design of the space itself.

This is the prepared environment. When children can see their options, select their own work, and return materials independently, they develop the kind of self-direction that carries into every stage of learning.

At Ivybrook, the classroom is not just where learning happens. It is part of how children learn.

Our first week of school at Ivybrook Academy is in the books! ✨

This week was filled with new friendships, joyful discoveries, creativity, concentration, and lots of hands-on learning. Our classrooms are already coming to life as the children explore their environments, practice new skills, create, problem-solve, and grow more confident in their daily routines.

One of our favorite things about these first few days is watching each child begin to feel that wonderful sense of, “I can do this.” 💚

We are so excited for the year ahead and for all the learning, curiosity, friendships, and beautiful little moments still to come.

Here’s to a wonderful first week at Ivybrook Academy! 🌿

Meet Ms. Zaimi, our Cedar Class Co-Educator! 🌿

With more than 15 years of experience in early childhood education, Ms. Zaimi brings warmth, patience, and a true love for helping children learn and grow. She is passionate about creating a classroom where every child feels safe, valued, confident, and excited to explore each day.

We are so happy to welcome Ms. Zaimi back to the Ivybrook Academy family! 🤍

When it comes to preschool readiness, many parents worry about their child's ability to sit still or separate without crying. But true readiness looks much different.

We look for foundational shifts in how a child interacts with their world. Your child may be ready to begin their educational journey if they:

Show an active interest in engaging with or observing other children.

Can communicate their basic needs through words or gestures.

Are beginning to explore small moments of independence.

Have experience with a simple daily routine or schedule.

Readiness is never a deadline. Every child reaches these milestones at their own pace, and our educators are here to support that beautiful, individual timeline.

Meet Ms. Saranya, our Cedar Class Educator! Her calm, nurturing presence and passion for hands-on learning help every child feel safe, valued, and inspired to explore. We are so grateful to have her as part of the Ivybrook Academy family. 💚🌿

Meet Ms. Vanessa! 💛 She is passionate about helping children learn, grow, and feel truly at home in the classroom. We are so happy she’s part of our Ivybrook family! 🌱

At 18 months old, the true work of preschool is entirely hands-on.

When you peek into our youngest classrooms at Ivybrook Academy, you will see toddlers actively engaged in the profound work of sensory and physical discovery. Daily activities include:

‣ Building Fine Motor Control: Carefully pouring water between containers.

‣ Fostering Independence: Learning the necessary steps to put on their own shoes.

‣ Exploring Cause and Effect: Discovering how different materials and tools create different marks.

These moments of practical independence are not just play. They are the essential, physical foundations for every later academic skill, from early handwriting to mathematical reasoning.

Meet Ms. Dayanne! 💚

We’re excited to welcome Ms. Dayanne to the Ivybrook Academy family! With over five years of Montessori experience and a passion for creating a warm, nurturing classroom, she’s dedicated to helping every child feel loved, confident, and excited to learn.

Join us in giving Ms. Dayanne a warm Ivybrook welcome! 🍃