Children learning and playing in a bright childcare center

College Place, WA

Where Little Minds Grow Wild and Free

A nurturing home-based environment where children explore, create, and discover — guided by patient educators who treat every child like family.

Home-Based Small Groups Licensed
Warm interior of Happy House Childcare with children's artwork and learning materials
15+ Years Serving College Place Families

About Us

More Than Daycare — A Second Home

When we opened Happy House Childcare, we had one simple belief: every child deserves to feel safe, seen, and stimulated — not just supervised.

Located on SE 6th Street in the heart of College Place, our home-based program offers an intimate setting where children form real relationships with caregivers and peers. We keep groups small so no child slips through the cracks.

Our space is designed to encourage independence — low shelves, accessible art supplies, a garden where kids grow their own vegetables. Here, mess is welcome. Curiosity is celebrated. And every child moves at their own pace.

Home-like environment
Low child-to-caregiver ratio
Age-appropriate curriculum
Outdoor play & garden

Our Programs

Programs Built Around Your Child's Stage

Each program is thoughtfully designed to meet developmental needs at every age — from first steps to kindergarten readiness.

Ages 6 weeks – 18 months

Infants

Gentle, responsive care focused on attachment, sensory exploration, and building trust. Tummy time, music, and one-on-one interaction shape every day.

Ages 18 months – 3 years

Toddlers

A hands-on world of discovery. Language-rich activities, sensory play, and safe outdoor exploration support rapid physical and cognitive growth.

Ages 3 – 5 years

Preschool

Play-based learning that builds school readiness. Pre-literacy, early math, social-emotional skills, and creative expression through structured and free-play.

Before & After School

School-Age Care

Homework support, unstructured play, and enrichment activities for kindergarten through fifth grade. A reliable, caring space before and after the school bell.

Our Philosophy

We Follow the Child, Not the Clock

Our approach is rooted in the belief that children learn best when they're engaged, curious, and emotionally secure. We don't force a rigid schedule — we respond to each child's interests, energy, and developmental pace.

01

Play Is the Work

Every activity is purposeful. Block building teaches geometry. Pretend play builds empathy. We design environments where learning happens naturally through exploration.

02

Relationships First

Children can't learn when they don't feel safe. We invest in deep, trusting relationships with every child and family. Consistency and warmth are non-negotiable.

03

Nature & Outdoors Daily

Weather or not, we go outside. Our garden, playground, and neighborhood walks are essential to physical health, sensory development, and wonder.

04

Family Partnership

You're not dropping your child off — you're joining a community. We communicate daily, share milestones, and welcome your input on your child's growth.

Child painting at a small table in the childcare classroom
Children playing together in the outdoor garden area

Community

Voices from Our Family

Happy House has been a lifeline for our family. The caregivers know our daughter by name, remember her favorite books, and genuinely celebrate her milestones. It feels like family — because in many ways, it is.

Parent, College Place

My son was shy and hesitant at first, but within weeks he was running through the door every morning. The small group size makes such a difference — he's socialized, confident, and actually excited to learn.

Parent, Walla Walla Valley

As a WSU student, I needed childcare that understood my schedule and my values. Happy House fits both. They're flexible, communicative, and my child genuinely thrives there.

Parent & WSU Student

Join Us

Your Child Deserves a Happy Place to Grow

We're currently accepting enrollments. Whether you need full-time care, part-time support, or before-and-after school care, we'd love to show you around.

Get in Touch

Visit Us at Happy House

We welcome tours by appointment. Give us a call or fill out the form, and we'll get back to you within 24 hours.

Address 503 SE 6th St
College Place, WA 99324-1350

Hours

Monday – Friday: 6:30 AM – 6:30 PM

Weekend and evening care available upon request

Request Information

Message Sent!

Thank you for reaching out. We'll get back to you within 24 hours to schedule a visit.

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