Lily Pad

Welcome to Lily Pad Learning: Unique Home-Based Child Care in Snohomish, WA

At Lily Pad Learning, we believe that children show us who they are and how they learn; our job is to listen. Nestled on a property of over 4 acres in East Snohomish, WA, our home-based program allows children the freedom to explore and make meaning of their world while fostering innate curiosity and love of nature and learning.

Through hands-on exploration, open-ended discovery, and play-based learning, children gain a deep knowledge of and respect for themselves and the people & world around them. Along the way, our teachers serve as thoughtful guides, co-constructing robust learning experiences informed by the children’s interests and grounded in equity and inclusion.

Together — children, families, and educators — we strive to grow a caring, joyful community where every family belongs and every child thrives.

Who Are We?

Lily Pad Learning was founded by mother-daughter team. Dr. Cathi Miller, PhD (child development professor & consultant) and Amanda Slingluff (master teacher).

After 35 combined years in early childhood education, both felt that something essential was missing from their students’ experiences — until a visit to the forest kindergartens of Denmark changed everything.

Inspired by what they saw, they returned home with a vision: to bring the spirit of nature-based child-led learning to the United States, and Lily Pad Learning was born.

When

Now Opening Fall 2026!

Monday - Friday

8:30am - 3pm

Early/Late care may be available depending on demand.

Where

Chain Lake

In-Home Childcare

Snohomish, WA

Easy access from downtown Snohomish and Monroe.

Enrollment

Accepting students ages 3 - 5 years old at time of enrollment.

Total Monthly Cost*

5 Days Per Week: $1,800

3 Days per Week: $1,200

2 Days per Week: $900

*Est. prices available for reference. May be subject to change prior to opening.

Interested in Enrolling?

Fill out our interest form to get more information on our program, ask questions, and to be first to hear about next steps for enrollment!

We'll be in touch to answer any questions you have for us, or you can reach out directly at drcathi@treefrogeducation.com.

Expect to hear from us Summer 2026 with information on tours, classrooms, and the enrollment process.