Activities and growth goals:
Quarter 1:
Bonding, Sensory Foundations, and Secure Routines
Building secure attachment through responsive caregiving & bonding
Infant massage to support sensory and emotional development
Gentle routines for feeding, sleeping, and daily rhythms
Introduction to outdoor walks and nature exposure
Quarter 2:
Movement, Communication, and Discovery
Fine and gross motor development through guided movement
Introduction to infant sign language for early communication
Daily outdoor play and safe exploration
Sensory-rich water play and early water introduction
Quarter 3:
Curiosity, Exploration, and Water Confidence
Outdoor and nature-based sensory exploration
Hands-on activities to develop tactile awareness
Beginner swimming lessons to build confidence and coordination
Quarter 4:
Movement, Confidence, and Early Social Skills
Gross motor development through movement and balance activities
Introduction to cooperative play and early social skill building
Toddler gymnastics class to promote strength, confidence, and body awareness
Quarter 5:
Independence, Rhythm, Language, and Social Foundations
Introduction to self-care routines (washing hands, putting on shoes, etc.)
Focused language development through naming and conversation
Music class to explore rhythm, tempo, pitch, and dynamics through singing,
instrument play, movement, and listening
Group story time to support listening, comprehension, and interaction
Social skill focus include sharing, turn-taking, and empathy
Quarter 6:
Artistic Expression, Communication, and Emotional Growth
Interactive story time with peer engagement
Guided art experiences for self-expression and creativity
Emotional regulation strategies through modeling and play
Quarter 7:
Nature exploration and environmental awareness
Soccer Tots program for teamwork, agility, and physical development
Critical thinking and problem solving through Montessori-based play
Foster curiosity and a sense of wonder through outdoor exploration and nature-based learning
Imaginative and pretend play to support abstract thinking and creativity
Quarter 8:
Independence, Movement, and Community Awareness
Community awareness through literature and dress up
Potty learning bootcamp with consistent support and structure
Preschool readiness skills, including eating at the table with peers and sleeping independently on a cot
Basketball focusing on coordination, balance, teamwork, and following directions
Focus on independence and care of the classroom environment
Quarter 9:
Practical Life Skills, Kitchen Safety, and Emotional Growth
Support children in identifying their feelings and using simple strategies
(like breathing techniques or asking for help) to manage emotions
Encourage empathy by modeling respectful communication and problem-solving
Incorporate real-life tasks such as pouring, sweeping, and table setting
Explore safe, hands-on cooking experiences like measuring, mixing, and preparing simple snacks
Strengthen executive functioning skills by introducing multi-step instructions and cooperative tasks
Quarter 10:
Preschool Readiness, Leadership, and Creative Movement & Expression
Introduce the rhythm and expectations of a preschool classroom
Provide opportunities to take on leadership roles, such as being a classroom helper or leading circle time activities
Continue to deepen emotional awareness and coping strategies
Use dance, dramatic play, and storytelling to refine coordination, self-expression, and social skills
Celebration of Achievements to reflect on the progress made throughout the last two and a half years
Meet your guides for The Wonder Year
Kelli Davis
As a seasoned educator, nanny, and mother of four, my life’s work has always centered around helping children thrive. I began my career teaching middle school, then transitioned into Special Education with a focus on Applied Behavior Analysis, where I worked closely with neurodiverse learners to support their growth with compassion and science-based strategies.
In 2018, I stepped away from public education to become an Independent Educational Behavioral Consultant, working primarily with therapeutic boarding schools to support adolescents in complex developmental and emotional stages.
But during the COVID-19 pandemic, I found myself deeply missing the quiet magic of infancy—the warmth, the coos, the incredible transformation that unfolds in the first years of life. I joined a nanny placement agency and began working with an expecting mother just one day a week. That single day quickly became the highlight of my week—and the catalyst for a beautiful pivot back to what I love most.
I find profound joy in supporting babies during their earliest, most formative months. To be trusted as part of a child’s first years is, to me, one of the greatest honors a person can receive. My goal is to respond with intention and sensitivity to each baby’s cues, to provide experiences that align with their natural developmental windows, and to curate a space that is as safe and soothing as it is stimulating and growth-promoting.
I believe wholeheartedly in the Montessori philosophy of respecting the child, following their lead, and preparing an environment that encourages independence, curiosity, and deep emotional security. Through this lens, I strive to raise babies who are joyful, confident, and grounded in a sense of connection to themselves and others.
At The Wonder Year, I’ve created a space where science and sensitivity come together—where parents are supported, children are deeply understood, and every moment is an opportunity for wonder.
David Davis
I’ve always been drawn to helping people grow—whether that’s a child learning to take their first steps or a parent finding confidence in their new role. Over the past 20 years, I’ve worked with people of all ages, from infants to adults, with a focus on learning through movement, exploration, and connection.
My background spans many roles: coaching gymnastics and cheerleading, serving as an assistant coach for Oregon State University’s cheer team, and specializing in safe, adaptive exercise for children and individuals with disabilities. I hold Bachelor’s degrees in both Psychology and Exercise and Sport Science from Oregon State University, and spent a decade as a business and life coach, helping businesses thrive in highly competitive markets, and families strengthen communication and connection at home.
Outside of being Kelli's sidekick, I’m also an artist. When I’m not needed with the babies, I spend my time in my studio creating neon-inspired art pieces—each one filled with light, color, and joy. Every baby in our program has their own personalized art piece, and some of my favorite moments happen when a little one who can’t quite sleep joins me in the studio, quietly watching the colors dance. Art and caregiving have always been intertwined for me—they’re both about presence, curiosity, and creating something meaningful together.
At The Wonder Year, I’ve combined my experience, education, and creativity to build a space where infants feel safe, stimulated, and loved. My goal is for parents to feel complete peace of mind knowing their child is not only cared for—but deeply understood and inspired each day.