Skipwith Academy at Forest Avenue
Address:7344 Townes RoadRichmond, VA, 23226
Ages: 3 weeks - 12 years
Hours: 7am - 6pm
Phone: (804) 282-5519
Email: skipwith@skipwithacademy.com
Accredited by COGNIA
Skipwith Academy at Forest Avenue provides caring, quality daycare in Richmond VA. Skipwith Academy has been a leader in early childhood education in the Richmond area since 1996. The Henrico County community trusts Skipwith Academy at Forest Avenue to offer children a safe, nurturing environment in which they can thrive academically, socially, and emotionally. We have served hundreds of families in the Richmond, Virginia area through the years, and we’d love to welcome your family into ours!
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↓ Quick Reference↓ Facility Features↓ Programs↓ Team↓ Reviews
Skipwith Academy at Forest Avenue: Quick Reference
Features at This Facility
* 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
Schools Serviced
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
Skipwith Academy at Forest Avenue is located in the historic home of Admiral Grey, Jr. and Kate Skipwith. In the West End of Richmond, the brick English Tudor style house was built in 1927 on a civil war camp site. Families enter from the slate patio, through a main door flanked by French doors, into an enormous parlor with oak floors that continue to run throughout the home. Off of the parlor, on the main floor, are classrooms located in what originally were the formal dining and family rooms. We are proud to have been part of the rich Richmond history for more than 20 years.
Skipwith Academy has emphasized a quality childcare program in a safe, clean, friendly atmosphere in which to learn and grow. Our colorful, well-lit classrooms are designed to inspire your child’s creativity. Our furniture and classroom storage solutions were chosen or custom-built with your child’s safety in mind.
Childcare Assistance for Military Families
ChildCare Aware / NACCRRA
Skipwith Academy at Forest Avenue is proud to support our military families and partner with the National Association of Child Care Resource and Referral Agencies (NACCRRA). NACCRRA’s program, Child Care Aware of America works with U.S. Military members to find and afford child care that suits their unique needs.
More Than Daycare: We Offer Safe and Caring Childcare, Preschool, and Other Programs!
From infancy through preschool and into the crucial school-age years, Skipwith Academy at Forest Avenue is committed to fostering a love for learning that lasts a lifetime. Our programs, curriculum, classrooms, play areas, toys, and learning materials cater to a variety of ages and developmental stages. Our goal is to give your child a variety of experiences that will develop him or her socially, emotionally and educationally.
Baby Steps: Infant Daycare in Richmond, VA
The Baby Steps program supports infants' growth through engaging activities like singing, reading, and play, which foster language and emotional development. Individualized lesson plans are crafted to promote physical and cognitive growth, helping infants explore their world. Babies also enjoy enrichment activities such as American Sign Language and Baby Yoga, providing varied early learning experiences. Daily communication keeps parents connected to their child’s progress and development.
Toddler Explorers: Toddler Daycare in Richmond, VA
The Toddler Explorers program nurtures early learning through individualized lesson plans that promote social, emotional, and motor skill development. In engaging classroom centers, toddlers explore materials that encourage curiosity and help build foundational knowledge. Activities like painting, sensory play, and pretend play enhance creativity and problem-solving skills, while outdoor time supports physical growth. Guided by experienced teachers, toddlers develop self-awareness and learn through exploration in a safe, stimulating environment.
Stepping Stones Montessori in Richmond, VA
Stepping Stones Montessori is designed for children ages 2-3 to start introducing basic skills and develop a sense of self. Children learn to take care of themselves and their environment, clean up their play area, use all their senses to learn about things they find interesting, and share family style meals with their classmates. The Stepping Stones Montessori program sets the foundation for a curious mindset and self-directed learning.
Skipwith Montessori in Richmond, VA
Skipwith Montessori caters to 3-5 year olds to build on their curiosity and confidence as they become familiar with the world around them. The classroom is thought of as a learning laboratory where mixed aged groups of kids interact and teach each other, with the assistance of a trained teacher. The environment is thoughtful and casual to create a natural setting to explore. Children are encouraged to infuse their personality into their education, which is self-initiated and self-directed. They develop skills in building friendships, working well with others, and a foundation in traditional subjects (math, science, culture) through sensory learning.
Youth Zone - Before and After School Care in Richmond, VA
The Youth Zone before- and after-school program offers a safe, supportive, and engaging environment where children can connect with friends through diverse activities. Each day includes options like homework support, creative projects, sports, and special interest clubs, promoting fun and socialization. Breakfast, snacks, and safe transportation to and from school are provided. Youth Zone also offers full-day programs on many school closure days, ensuring children enjoy meaningful and supervised experiences even when school is not in session.
Summer Camp in Richmond, VA
Summer Camp at Skipwith 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 Skipwith Academy at Forest Avenue, 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
Michelle Manning, BS/Psychology
About Me
My name is Michelle Manning, and I would like to introduce myself as your Director. I am originally from St. Louis, Missouri and I received my Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology with a focus in Child Psychology from Old Dominion University. I have been working in the field of Early Childhood Education for more than 14 years and joined the Skipwith Academy family in 2014.
Throughout my career, I have held the positions of Teacher, Assistant Director, Education Support Specialist and currently, Director. I enjoy exploring the outdoors, hiking and relaxing at home.
I always had an interest in the development of children, and it was my dream to be a part of their early education years. My favorite part of the day is playing with the children and seeing their smiling faces each day. I enjoy running a school that is fun as well as safe. The parents motivate me with the positive feedback about our school.
My focus for my school is to work together to create an enriching and educating environment for all. My love for children is what guides my career. It is such a rewarding experience to be able to watch these little ones grow into bright young children.
Respectfully,
Michelle Manning
Assistant Director
Kaitlyn Sisk
About Me
District Director
Nikki Newsome, MA/Early Childhood Education
About Me
