Learning Paths Academy Rippon provides caring, quality daycare and preschool in Woodbridge VA. Over the last decade, Learning Paths Academy has built a reputation for excellence in educational childcare. The Prince William County community trusts Learning Paths Academy Rippon to offer children a safe, nurturing environment in which they can thrive academically, socially, and emotionally. We have served hundreds of families in the Woodbridge area through the years, and we’d welcome the opportunity to care for and support your family too!
My grandson has been attending the Rippon location since he was an infant. As a vibrant 3 year old now, he is a confident little boy who loves his school, friends and teachers and cannot wait to be dropped off each day. He is learning so much and engaging in a variety of educational activities each day. His teachers are very loving and treat each child like their own! We are very happy with Learning Paths Academy Rippon.
- grandparent at LPA Rippon
I am so thankful that we enrolled our son at Rippon! The staff is the best that I have seen and they pour their hearts into every child that walks through the door. My son has been there since he was 15 weeks old, now 3.5, and has learned so much from everyone there. Everyday he is engaging in hands-on activities. From Science experiments, to reading, morning yoga, and so many other activities. I wouldn’t want my son anywhere else. I am thankful for his teachers and Mrs. Charlotte, knowing that my son is in amazing hands throughout the day!
* Meals / snacks are not included for children with food allergies. This is the safest approach. Meal / snack exclusions do not affect tuition costs.
Programs Offered
Baby Steps: Infant Daycare
Toddler Explorers: Toddler Daycare
Preschool Explorers
PREP – Preschool Readiness Enrichment Program
Junior Kindergarten
Youth Zone: Before / After School Program
Summer Camp
Schools Serviced
Featherstone Elementary
Leesylvania Elementary
Mary Williams Elementary
Rippon Middle
River Oaks Elementary
Woodbridge Elementary School
NOTE: The Schools Serviced are subject to change based on number of students enrolled from each public school.
Features of Our Clean, Secure, and Conveniently Located Facility
Learning Paths Academy Rippon offers a bright and nurturing environment where thoughtfully designed classrooms filled with natural light create a warm and engaging space for children to learn and grow. The academy features a secure, age-appropriate outdoor playground that encourages active play and social interaction. Conveniently located in the Rippon Landing community of Woodbridge, the center is situated near local parks and family-friendly amenities, making it easily accessible for families seeking quality childcare in a well-established neighborhood.
More Than Daycare: We Offer Safe and Caring Childcare, Preschool, Before and After School Care, and More!
From infancy through preschool and into the pivotal school-age years, Learning Paths Academy is devoted to nurturing a lifelong love of learning. Our vibrant programs, thoughtfully designed curriculum, welcoming classrooms, engaging play environments, and age-appropriate learning tools support children across every stage of growth. The Learning Paths Academy is all about Joy, Growth, and Community. “Joy” ensures learning feels magical, “Community” ensures children feel they belong, and “Growth” ensures they are always moving forward. If you’re seeking nurturing, high-quality daycare and preschool in Woodbridge VA, check out our programs below!
Baby Steps: Infant Daycare in Woodbridge, VA
The Baby Steps program provides infants with a nurturing environment that supports their emotional, physical, cognitive, and social development through responsive caregiving and individualized learning experiences. Teachers use play, reading, music, and sensory activities to encourage language, motor skills, and early brain development while building strong bonds with each child.
Toddler Explorers: Toddler Daycare in Woodbridge, VA
The Toddler Explorers program provides one-year-olds with a nurturing, engaging classroom experience that supports their growing independence and curiosity. Through small group care, responsive teaching, and thoughtfully designed spaces, toddlers explore, create, and develop socially, emotionally, and physically.
The Preschool Explorers program introduces two-year-olds to a preschool setting where learning is inspired by their natural curiosity and growing independence. Through theme-based activities, small group experiences, and engaging lesson plans, children build social, emotional, cognitive, and physical skills.
PREP - Preschool Readiness Enrichment Program in Woodbridge, VA
The Preschool Readiness Enrichment Program (PREP) helps children smoothly transition from early preschool into full school readiness with a strong focus on social, emotional, and academic growth. Through inquiry-based learning, technology integration, STEM activities, and Spanish enrichment, children build critical thinking and communication skills.
The Junior Kindergarten program prepares children for success in kindergarten through inquiry-based learning in literacy, math, science, and social studies. Enrichment in STEM, Spanish, and service-learning fosters problem-solving, language, and community awareness. With a focus on social, emotional, and physical development, children gain confidence, independence, and readiness for the next stage of their school journey.
Youth Zone: Before / After School Program in Woodbridge, VA
The Youth Zone program offers school-age children a safe, engaging space before and after school where they can complete homework, build friendships, and explore interests through clubs, creative projects, and sports. With a focus on independence, social growth, and enrichment, students enjoy nutritious meals, outdoor play, and personalized activities.
Summer Camp at Learning Paths Academy makes it easy for parents to keep their routines by providing an exciting, safe, activity-driven place for their kids when school is out. Our summer camp program begins at the conclusion of the school year and continues through June, July, and August. Outdoor activities are a mainstay of the program, including swimming! We also have camps for winter and spring breaks!
Our Directors, Teachers, and Staff Are Dedicated and Well-Trained
Our team embraces the philosophy of learning in a loving environment by creating a nurturing environment where learning is fun and exciting! At Learning Paths Academy Rippon, we are proud to employ a culturally diverse, highly trained, and caring staff. Our teachers and management engage our children in activities and experiences that propel them to grow and learn. These childcare professionals provide a “home away from home” for your child with stimulating social, emotional, and physical learning opportunities.
Director
Bianca Gallahan Zarate, CDA About Me
My name is Bianca Gallahan Zarate, and I am so excited and honored to introduce myself as the Director of Learning Paths Academy at Rippon!
I have been working with children since high school, but my true passion for early childhood education began when I worked in my first school. There is something incredibly rewarding about watching children learn, grow, and absorb everything around them. I especially love seeing their excitement and happiness throughout the day as they participate in classroom activities, explore new experiences, and enjoy exciting field trips.
I hold a Child Development Associate (CDA) credential and currently enrolled at Northern Virginia Community College. I have 18 years of experience in the childcare field. Throughout my career, I have had the opportunity to work as a preschool teacher, with a particular focus on infants and young toddlers, as well as an enrollment coordinator for a nonprofit preschool. I have also gained experience working in the automotive and wellness industries, which has helped me develop valuable skills in communication, organization, customer service, and relationship-building.
I am originally from Northern Virginia and come from a Mexican and American background. Outside of work, I enjoy watching movies, spending time with friends and family, traveling, and creating fun and memorable experiences. I have a brother and a sister, and I am also a proud pet mom to my three fur babies, Bubba, Bo, and Riley!
One of the things that motivates me most is helping others and building meaningful relationships within the community. I believe that strong relationships between children, families, teachers, and the community create a foundation where everyone can feel supported, valued, and successful.
I am also currently working toward my degree in Psychology. This is an important personal goal for me, but it is also something I am pursuing because I want to continue growing professionally and better understand and support the children, families, and staff.
As the Director of Learning Paths Academy at Rippon, my goal is to create a welcoming, caring, and positive environment where children can learn and thrive, families feel heard and supported, and our teachers feel valued and empowered. I look forward to getting to know each of you, learning about your children, and becoming a part of this wonderful community.
District Director
Christine Mitchell, BS/Criminal Justice About Me
Christine Mitchell is a District Director for LLE Education Group.
Learning Paths Rippon Landing is the BEST childcare option in Woodbridge area. I have 2 daughters 2 and 4 that have been going there for 2 years and it has been everything that I can ask for and more!!! There facility is clean, safe and kid friendly. They have great toys, large rooms and a beautiful outdoor area. The teachers and directors are all on the same page, they are kind, mature and knowledgeable. The teachers are patient and actually teach your child through play and structure so they are ready for Kindergarten. I just can't say enough how great this school is the Director and Assistant Director are amazing leaders and have created a culture of safety, kindness and just overall awesomeness!!!
The Learning Paths Academy has been nothing short of a phenomenal experience for both me and my child, and I cannot express enough gratitude for the incredible care, support, and dedication shown by the entire staff. From the very beginning, Ms. Charlotte greeted us with the warmest welcome, immediately making me feel at ease with her kindness, flexibility, and professionalism—she went above and beyond to ensure the registration process was seamless, stress-free, and tailored to meet our needs, which truly set the tone for the positive journey that followed. Throughout our time at the academy, Ms. Brittnee stood out as an exceptional communicator—always proactive, responsive, and reassuring—her consistent updates and thoughtful engagement gave me immense peace of mind knowing that my child was in caring and capable hands every single day. In the classroom, my son flourished under the nurturing guidance of Ms. Pam and Ms. Yemmi, two absolutely amazing educators whose passion for teaching and genuine love for their students were evident in everything they did; they created a joyful, enriching learning environment where my son felt excited, confident, and deeply valued. The level of care at The Learning Paths Academy is truly top-notch—from the attentiveness to each child’s unique needs to the loving atmosphere they foster, it is clear that this is far more than just a daycare or school—it is a place where children are inspired to grow and thrive. Reflecting on our time here, I would do it all over again in a heartbeat, and I wholeheartedly recommend The Learning Paths Academy to any parent seeking a safe, supportive, and uplifting space for their child’s early development.
Both my daughters have gone to Rippon Minnieland, my oldest is now in Kindergarten. They both loved the staff and school so much. They are excited to go to school and have learned so much during their time there. The staff always greets me with a smile and warm greeting and my family really feels welcomed there. We highly recommend Minnieland Rippon for any family looking for childcare!
The teachers at Minnieland Rippon are kind and caring, and they do their best to work with me when my toddler is having difficulties—for example, learning to eat veggies. With their help, I am sure we can convince this kid to enjoy peas.
I absolutely love Minnieland Academy at Rippon. My daughter has been going there since she was four months old (she is now four). My daughter absolutely loves Miss Yami and Miss Pam. They always smile and give her a hug upon her arrival and departure! The teachers do an amazing job of communicating and documenting their day through their app. They also have amazing extracurricular activities including dance and Soccer Shots. My favorite parent outreach activity is the Mother’s Day Tea complete with delicious snacks and an adorable song from the littles. If you are looking for a safe, fun, and engaging place for your child then go to Minnieland Academy at Rippon today.
My girls have been attending Minnieland Academy for several months now and love it. Teachers/Staff have been so welcoming and loving! The center is very clean and organized. I absolutely love receiving updates/pictures on the app throughout the day, it definitely brightens my day and provides me reassurance that my girls are in good hands! I am super thankful to have found a center who goes above and beyond for the children every day!
What can I say!! The team at Minnieland at Rippon was nothing short of phenomenal. My nephew temporary relocation to the area was made a breeze by the staff. Everyday he came home speaking about his teacher, Ms. Pam. We definitely will be back. Thank you for everything!! Minneland at Rippon, I highly recommend.
We LOVE Minnieland-Rippon, my daughter has been enrolled for five years. The compassionate staff demonstrates patience daily when nurturing and guiding our children, which is essential when raising a “diva princess “ aka a confident and kind individual.
My boys (ages 3 and 5) attend Minnieland Academy at Rippon and they truly love it. I’ve seen them both thrive in so many aspects of learning and social development. The teachers are so attentive and caring. It’s hard to find a good center that truly cares about the children, but I feel we’ve found it here at Minnieland. Truly gems of teachers here. The classes are small, so the teachers can really focus on the children and I found at this age, it’s extremely important. They offer part time and full time options and really try to accommodate parents’ schedules. Highly recommend!
Accredited by NAEYC
