★ SUTQ Gold Rated — Ohio’s highest tierDrop-in care · based on availabilityState childcare vouchers acceptedWe’re hiring teachers & subs · Apply here ↗

WRP · Wild Roots Preschool & Daycare · Mayfield Heights, Ohio

Little roots.
Big wonder.

A warm, play-filled preschool and daycare center for children from 6 weeks through 12 years—created so children can feel known, families can feel connected, and curiosity gets room to grow.

  • SUTQ Gold Rated
  • Drop-in care · as available
  • State vouchers accepted
  • Family childcare roots since 1975
A smiling Wild Roots infant enjoying playtime
A smiling Wild Roots baby enjoying an outdoor stroll
little moments, big joy

Rooted in family

✦

Led by play

✦

Made for wonder

✦

Growing together

Care that fits real family life

Flexible care.
More ways to belong.

Families do not all need the same schedule or use the same path to care. Wild Roots offers flexible care options, subject to classroom availability, to help more families find a schedule and path that may work for them.

Occasional or as-needed daysDrop-in
care

Attendance-based care can be a helpful option for appointments, changing work schedules, school breaks, or the days when a little extra support matters. Openings depend on current classroom capacity.

Drop-in openings
Part of our Gold RatingLower ratios.
More connection.

Forty percent of our classrooms, serving infants through school-age, meet Ohio's lower staff-to-child ratio and group-size standards for Gold Rated centers. This helps create more room for individual attention, responsive care, and meaningful relationships.

Gold standards
Ohio Step Up To Quality Gold Award

Ohio Step Up To Quality

Gold rated.
Rooted in quality.

Gold is Ohio’s highest Step Up To Quality tier—recognition for early learning programs that go beyond basic health and safety licensing requirements.

For families, it is one more reason to feel confident about the thoughtful learning, professional practice, family partnership, and continuous improvement behind each day.

See Ohio’s Gold standards

Programs that grow with them

A soft place to land.
A big world to explore.

A young Wild Roots learner resting peacefully6 weeks–2½ years
Nurture

Infants & toddlers

Responsive, nurturing care shaped around each child’s home rhythm—supporting early language, movement, connection, and trust.

A Wild Roots preschooler smiling during outdoor playAges 3–5
Wonder

Preschool

A play-based path to kindergarten readiness with big room for curiosity, friendships, problem-solving, and creative expression.

Two Wild Roots school-age children smiling during a classroom activityKindergarten–12 years
Adventure

School age

Before- and after-school care with homework time, hands-on projects, and seasonal programming. Current schedules vary by enrollment and the school-year calendar.

Transportation is provided to and from Lander Elementary School for children enrolled in our before- and after-school care.

Not sure which program fits?

Check availability

The WRP way

A place to belong,
with room to wonder.

We create beautiful, welcoming spaces where children’s questions can become projects, play can become discovery, and educators can get to know each child’s interests and needs.

Educators listen, observe, and offer open-ended materials that invite children to test ideas, collaborate, make art, move their bodies, and return to what fascinates them. It is warm and intentional, with room to respond to each group.

ObserveCreateMoveGrow
A young Wild Roots learner investigating flowers outdoors
Wonder is serious learning.
wonder-led

Children lead

Interests and questions shape invitations to create, investigate, move, talk, and revisit ideas.

relationship-rich

Teachers notice

Responsive educators observe closely, build trusting relationships, and gently extend each child’s thinking.

made to explore

Spaces invite

Open-ended materials, nature, art, music, and movement make the environment an active part of learning.

The people of WRP

The people behind
the little moments.

Families tell us that teachers and management matter most. Our educators bring care, personality, and thoughtful attention to the everyday work of helping children learn, play, and belong.

We want families to know the people who make Wild Roots feel warm. A tour is the best way to meet the current classroom team, see the spaces, and ask how your child's day would be supported.

Ms. Kelsey smiling in a Wild Roots classroom
Team spotlightMs. Kelsey

Our cook, office assistant, and all-around helper—supporting meals, families, classrooms, and wherever an extra hand is needed.

A mom herself, she brings a practical, caring family perspective to everything she does.

CPR & First Aid certified · Child Abuse Prevention trained · Annual Ohio trainings

Read her spotlight
Ms. Brittanie sharing a joyful outdoor moment with a Wild Roots child
Teacher spotlightMs. Brittanie

A longtime Wild Roots teacher who brings warmth, playfulness, and deep classroom experience to everyday learning.

A proud auntie and cherished member of our Wild Roots family, she has been a caring presence at our school for years.

Bachelor's degree in Education · Ohio CPL Level 3 · CPR & First Aid certified · Child Abuse Prevention trained · Annual Ohio trainings

Read her spotlight
Ms. De’Ashia smiling in a Wild Roots classroom
Teacher spotlightMs. De’Ashia

A kind, nurturing educator who brings warmth and bright energy to classroom days.

She is also a mom, bringing a parent's perspective to the relationships she builds with children and families.

CPR & First Aid certified · Child Abuse Prevention trained · Annual Ohio trainings

Read her spotlight
Ms. Shereen smiling outdoors
Teacher spotlightMs. Shereen

A fun, nurturing educator who brings warmth, laughter, and genuine joy to the classroom.

As a mother, she brings an understanding family perspective to her joyful classroom care.

CPR & First Aid certified · Child Abuse Prevention trained · Annual Ohio trainings

Visit our Facebook
Ms. Darnisha smiling
Infant-room spotlightMs. Darnisha

A warm, bubbly infant-room educator known for gentle connection and thoughtful communication with families.

“Our baby whisperer—and a ray of sunshine.”

CPR & First Aid certified · Child Abuse Prevention trained · Annual Ohio trainings · OCCRRA professional-development coursework

Visit our Facebook
Ms. Christina smiling in a Wild Roots classroom
Creative classroom careMs. Christina

An imaginative, compassionate educator who brings creativity, steady care, and a deep understanding of children to each day.

She is also a mother, bringing nurturing experience and a parent's point of view to her work.

CPR & First Aid certified · Child Abuse Prevention trained · Annual Ohio trainings · Communicable Disease certified

Visit our Facebook
Ms. Marissa smiling
Teacher spotlightMs. Marissa

A creative, caring educator who brings calm attention, laughter, and a thoughtful eye for detail to the classroom.

A mom herself, she brings patience, humor, and a family-centered perspective to each day.

Bachelor's degree in Business Management · CPR & First Aid certified · Child Abuse Prevention trained · Annual Ohio trainings

Visit our Facebook
Ms. Theresa smiling
Early-learning spotlightMs. Theresa

A kind-hearted early childhood educator who brings creativity, inclusive communication, and genuine excitement for children's growth.

As a mother, she values the trust, communication, and connection families need from their child's school.

Degree in Elementary Education · Fluent in ASL · CPR & First Aid certified · Child Abuse Prevention trained · Annual Ohio trainings

Visit our Facebook
Ms. Yasmeen smiling
Early-learning spotlightMs. Yasmeen

A caring educator who brings a calm presence, thoughtful guidance, and a strong foundation in early childhood learning to each day.

As a mother, she brings a warm family perspective to the relationships she builds with children and parents.

Child Development Associate (CDA) · Ohio CPL Level 3 · CPR & First Aid certified · Child Abuse Prevention trained · Annual Ohio trainings

Visit our Facebook
Ms. Ellen smiling outdoors
Teacher spotlightMs. Ellen

A warm educator who brings kindness, curiosity, and an open-hearted sense of adventure to the classroom.

Outside WRP, she loves hiking and traveling—interests that reflect her joy in discovery and new experiences.

CPR & First Aid certified · Child Abuse Prevention trained · Annual Ohio trainings

Visit our Facebook

Our substitute team

Familiar faces,
ready to step in.

Our substitute teachers help provide caring classroom support when coverage is needed—bringing their own talents, personalities, and warmth to WRP days.

Ms. Archana smiling in a Wild Roots classroom
Substitute teacherMs. Archana

A thoughtful educator who brings a strong academic foundation and a parent's perspective to the classrooms she supports.

A mother who values warm relationships with children and families.

Master's degree in Education · CPR & First Aid certified · Child Abuse Prevention trained · Annual Ohio trainings

Ms. Rachel smiling in a Wild Roots classroom
Substitute teacherMs. Rachel

A playful, caring teacher whose background in psychology and social work brings a thoughtful understanding of children to the classroom.

She brings bright energy, curiosity, and plenty of fun to WRP.

B.A. in Psychology · Master of Science in Social Work (MSSW) · Ohio CPL Level 2 · CPR & First Aid certified · Child Abuse Prevention trained · Annual Ohio trainings

Ms. Dani sharing a quiet classroom moment with a Wild Roots child
Substitute teacherMs. Dani

A fun, loving teacher who brings creativity, playful ideas, and upbeat energy wherever she is helping.

Her creative eye helps make everyday classroom moments feel special.

Degree in Interior Design · CPR & First Aid certified · Child Abuse Prevention trained · Annual Ohio trainings

Ms. Sue, Assistant Director of Wild Roots Preschool and Daycare
Assistant Director

Ms. Sue helps families feel at home.

As our assistant director, Ms. Sue brings more than 30 years in childcare and a warm, steady presence to Wild Roots. She helps families with everyday questions and supports the details that keep center life running smoothly.

A mother of four, she understands how much a welcoming, dependable center matters to families.

30+ years in childcare · CPR & First Aid certified · Child Abuse Prevention trained · Annual Ohio trainings · OCCRRA professional-development coursework

Visit our Facebook
Ms. Ryann, director of Wild Roots Preschool and Daycare
Director spotlight

Ms. Ryann leads with heart.

As Wild Roots' director, Ryann supports children, families, and educators with compassion, clear communication, and a strong commitment to safety. She is certified in Emergency Medical Services (EMS) and brings deep care for childhood development to the center each day.

Outside the center, she is a medal-winning equestrian and skilled horse trainer. She also enjoys running and spending time with her animals.

CPR & First Aid certified · Child Abuse Prevention trained · Annual Ohio trainings

Ryann KornesDirector · Administrator

A young learner carefully stirring a colorful sensory experiment
tiny moments,
lasting confidence

A day at WRP

Learning lives
everywhere.

Our days have a dependable rhythm, with plenty of room to follow a question, linger over a project, or give a little body exactly what it needs.

playnoticemakereflect
Welcome

Arrival, breakfast & belonging

Warm greetings, family check-ins, a nourishing breakfast, and unrushed time to settle in.

Gather

Stories, songs & community

A short shared moment for conversation, music, read-alouds, and noticing what children are wondering about.

Explore

Projects born from curiosity

Open-ended centers, art, sensory work, building, dramatic play, and teacher-guided invitations to investigate.

Move

Fresh air & big-body play

Outdoor time, nature discoveries, playground adventures, and movement that builds confidence and coordination.

Restore

Lunch, rest & a gentle reset

Healthy meals, quiet connection, and age-appropriate rest, with attention to individual routines when possible.

Reconnect

Afternoon play & joyful goodbyes

Favorite activities, enrichment, snacks, time with friends, and a warm handoff back to family.

The Wild Roots mission

A place to belong.
A childhood to cherish.

Warm relationships. Joyful play. Room to grow.

How we help children learn.

Teaching Strategies® + The Creative Curriculum®

Thoughtful observation and playful learning, shaped around each child.

Belonging

Every child feels known.

Warm relationships build trust and confidence.

Play

Play is meaningful work.

Move, create, imagine and solve problems.

Curiosity

Little questions.
Big discoveries.

Explore ideas and grow at your own pace.

Creative Curriculum® & enrichment

Create. Move.
Discover.

Alongside The Creative Curriculum®, teachers weave art, simple cooking projects, sensory play, music, yoga, movement, and hands-on science and nature exploration into classroom learning. Guest-led dance and gymnastics may return as instructor availability allows. Seasonal field trips and special visitors add fresh opportunities to explore, connect, and discover, as schedules and availability allow.

ArtCookingMusicClassroom YogaSensory PlayScience & NatureMovementField TripsSpecial Visitors
A Wild Roots child joyfully exploring a hands-on sensory activity
Wild Roots children experimenting with bubbles on a field trip
Wild Roots children enjoying a guided movement activity together

Tools, platforms & enrichment we use

Thoughtful support,
behind every day.

From intentional curriculum planning to family communication and joyful enrichment, these are some of the trusted resources that help our educators and families stay connected.

Product names and trademarks belong to their respective owners.

Wild Roots Academy

Skills that stay
with you.

Practical safety classes for families and professionals, plus Ohio-approved continuing education for adult learners. Every class is held at our Wild Roots center in Mayfield Heights; we do not travel off-site.

HSI certifiedAmerican Red CrossOCCRRA training centerOhio-approved courses

Professional development · Continuing education

On-site OCCRRA
Training Center

Wild Roots Academy offers Ohio-approved adult courses for early childhood professionals seeking practical learning, professional-development hours, and continuing education close to home.

Visit the Ohio Professional Registry

Complete babysitter course

Babysitter Training
CPR optional

Book babysitter training by itself or combine it with Adult & Pediatric CPR / First Aid.

Open health & safety class registration

Golden Connections

Games.
Stories.
Time together.

Real visits and growing friendships with our neighbors at The Ashton at Mayfield Heights.

WRP × The Ashton
Wild Roots children playing Bingo with older neighbors at The Ashton
Bingo with our Ashton neighbors

Community connection · The Ashton at Mayfield Heights

Growing across
generations.

Some of childhood's sweetest lessons happen when younger and older neighbors have time to simply enjoy one another.

Through our relationship with The Ashton at Mayfield Heights, children have opportunities to share games, stories, conversation, and smiles with older adults. These moments give children meaningful ways to practice kindness, listening, patience, and respect—and bring joy in both directions.

Shared gamesStories & conversationCommunity friendship
A smiling Wild Roots toddler enjoying outdoor play

Hometown roots

Rooted here.
Raising Wildcats.

Wild Roots is proud to grow alongside Mayfield Heights families. We cheer for our neighbors, show up for our community, and send little learners forward ready to be kind, curious, and confident. Go Wildcats!

Support Mayfield Wildcats Find family support resources

To our WRP families

You are WRP.
You are what makes Wild Roots special.

Every hello, celebration, question, hug, and everyday moment you share helps shape this community. Wild Roots is not only a place your family attends—it is something we create together, and you are at the heart of it.

Mayfield & Cuyahoga family supports

A little help
close to home.

Family life can bring all kinds of questions. These independent local and public resources can help families find benefits, developmental support, everyday essentials, child care guidance, and free learning opportunities.

Shared for convenience. Each organization sets its own eligibility, availability, and services; inclusion here does not imply a formal partnership with Wild Roots.

Kind words from our community

Voices of WRP.
Shared in their own words.

Choosing care is personal. Read comments from families and community members across Google and Winnie, sharing different parts of their Wild Roots experience.

Parent review
Excellent teachers, staff and owner. My kids love this place so much they don’t want to leave!!

Little plates, happy days

Balanced meals,
following USDA/CACFP guidelines.

Breakfast, lunch, and snacks are served daily. Menus may include whole grains, fruits, vegetables, local favorites, and occasional seasonal cooking activities.

BreakfastLunchSnacksInfant options
Allergies & dietary needs

We review documented allergies and dietary restrictions with families and plan appropriate accommodations. Additional needs are discussed individually before enrollment.

Clear about costs

Any regularly required charges beyond tuition are identified in writing before enrollment. Ask our office for the current tuition and fee schedule.

Formula and Gerber baby cereals are available by request for our littlest learners.

Good to know

Questions,
meet answers.

What ages do you welcome?

Wild Roots welcomes children from 6 weeks through 12 years, with infant and toddler, preschool, school-age, and summer programs.

Do you offer drop-in care and accept state vouchers?

Yes. Wild Roots offers attendance-based drop-in care for occasional or as-needed days, based on availability. We also accept Ohio state childcare vouchers and can help families understand the next step.

What creative and enrichment experiences are included?

Alongside The Creative Curriculum®, teachers weave art, simple cooking projects, sensory play, music, yoga, movement, and hands-on science and nature exploration into classroom learning. Visiting enrichment offerings, such as dance or gymnastics, may rotate based on instructor availability.

What meals are served?

Breakfast, lunch, and snacks are served daily following USDA and CACFP guidelines. We review documented allergies and dietary restrictions with families, and additional needs are discussed individually before enrollment. Infant formula and Gerber baby cereals are available when requested.

Are there additional fees beyond tuition?

Any regularly required charges beyond tuition are identified in writing before enrollment. Ask our office for the current tuition and fee schedule so you can review every applicable charge before making a decision.

Who will be caring for my child?

Classroom teams can change as enrollment and staffing needs evolve. During your tour, we are happy to introduce the current educators and explain classroom staffing, communication, and daily routines.

Do children take field trips or visit community partners?

Children may participate in age-appropriate local outings and intergenerational visits with residents at The Ashton at Mayfield Heights, including shared games and stories. Experiences vary by classroom, schedule, permissions, transportation, and partner availability.

Can anyone take a CPR class?

Yes. Wild Roots Academy classes are open to educators, families, and community members. Classes are held on-site in Mayfield Heights and registration is completed online.

Now hiring · Mayfield Heights, Ohio

Come grow
with us.

We’re looking for positive, playful childcare teachers and substitutes to join our Wild Roots team. Whether you want regular shifts or flexible substitute work, we’d love to meet you.

Regular shifts & substitute opportunities50% childcare benefit for full-time staffSupportive team & joyful classrooms
Apply to work at Wild Roots

Quick online application · Teachers and substitutes welcome

Come grow with us

See what
makes us, us.

Tour the classrooms, meet our educators, and picture your family’s days at Wild Roots.

Schedule your tour