Our Story
When Jennifer Bower’s son was in child care, she returned to work. She found that she would often spend the day with a knot in her stomach – worried about whether he was being loved, if teachers were truly interacting with him, if he was safe. Questioning the integrity of his environment was gnawing at her and made it hard for her to really focus on her professional responsibilities. She felt guilty for leaving him and guilty that she wasn’t giving 100% to her job either.
With more than 20 years as a professional in private schools, Jennifer began planning for a school for the youngest learners, a place where parents could leave their children knowing they were safe and nurtured. BeanTree Learning grew out of that desire.
What's in the name?
When it came time to select a name, many ideas were tossed around.
"Bean" is a slang term for the head or brain. The development of young children’s brains happens so fast and these first few years of a child’s life last forever. Children need to be in a loving environment with responsive teachers, encouraging and promoting this brain development.
"Tree" – A tree is an amazing thing. It grows from the tiniest seedling and, when it is fully grown, it shares its seeds with the earth around it. To us, that seed is knowledge, which children are able to grow and share throughout their time at our school.
"Learning" - Learning in every way possible – visually, verbally, logically, and physically – and always through play and fun!
BeanTree Learning
We opened the BeanTree Learning Ashburn doors in January 2005 and Chantilly’s in October 2007.
4 things that make a difference at BeanTree
As a parent and professional, Jennifer knew BeanTree had to be different.
- Hiring top-notch teachers and staff who truly enjoy being with the children -- teachers who are educated and professional, teachers who have chosen child care as their career.
- A meaningful partnership with parents, which only happens through trust! We build this trust through impeccable communication and constant feedback and support.
- A building that is open, bright, and loaded with opportunities for children of all ages!
- Paying attention to the smallest details, whether that means stopping a parent who looks like she might be concerned about something, picking up a piece of paper on the floor that should be in the trash, or emailing a photo of a happy baby on her first day to an anxious mom and dad at work.
With these as our points of focus, BeanTree Learning has grown. Hundreds of families have experienced the BeanTree Difference and are proud to share their stories about the BeanTree family of which they are a part.
