Our Philosophy
Rooted in the values of joy, connection, and curiosity, our philosophy honors the natural brilliance of every child. We know that children are born curious, creative, and capable and our role is to nurture that spark. Learning at Little Explorers happens through play, exploration, and connection to the world around us.
We trust children as natural learners. That means we create open-ended invitations to explore through movement, music, art, storytelling, and time in nature. Every part of our day, from snack time to story time, is seen as a chance to grow confident, capable, and kind.
About Us
A Place Where Childhood is an Adventure
At Warren Little Explorers, we believe childhood isn’t a race…it’s a journey full of wonder, curiosity, and discovery.
Our center was founded with a simple but powerful vision: to give young children a joyful, nature-connected start that nurtures not only their minds, but also their hearts and spirits.
Little Explorers is a tuition-based, private early learning center. We accept child care vouchers and are now enrolling!
Click below to find out more about our child care program for ages 6 weeks to 5 years old. We are currently accepting students into our new facility in Warrenton!
We look forward to welcoming your family!
Meet the Director: Elli Lybrand
As Warren Little Explorers' Preschool Director, I bring both professional knowledge and personal passion to our early childhood community. I have always been drawn to the natural curiosity of children and the magic of learning through exploration. A love for nature, creativity, and meaningful connection guides my life and the environment we strive to create here - one where children are encouraged to ask questions, express themselves, and develop confidence in who they are. Whether through outdoor discovery, imaginative play, or collaborative learning, my goal is to nurture both the hearts and minds of the children in our care.
My Bachelor’s Degree in Early Childhood Psychology from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro and my career in Early Childhood Education has given me a deep understanding of how young children grow, learn, and develop during their most important formative years.
Just as importantly, my experience as a mother has shaped my belief that every child deserves to feel safe, valued, and inspired each day they walk through our doors.
If I am not at Warren Little Explorers, you can find me in the dirt with my family - my 4-year-old Lillie (who will be joining our Owls classroom!) and my husband, Vic. We spend as much time as possible outside hiking, gardening, and exploring all that nature has to offer us.
It is a privilege to partner with families and educators to build a warm, welcoming community where children can thrive. Together, we will cultivate a space where wonder, kindness, and creativity are part of every child’s daily experience.
Nature as Our Second Classroom
The outdoors is at the heart of our approach. Whether splashing in puddles, planting seeds, or building forts from fallen branches, children at Little Explorers learn and grow through daily experiences in nature. Fresh air, open spaces, and hands-on discovery fuel both healthy bodies and inspired minds.
Connected to Community
Little Explorers is proud to be aligned with Warren Young Explorers Public Charter School (Warren YES). This partnership means that children who attend our program receive enrollment preference at Warren YES, giving families a supportive pathway from early childhood into elementary education
Our Promise to Families
When your child joins Little Explorers, you can expect:
A warm, welcoming environment that celebrates every child’s uniqueness.
Teachers who guide with care, flexibility, and intention.
A balance of play, learning, and community connection.
Plenty of time outdoors to nurture health, imagination, and respect for the earth.
We are aligned with Warren Young Explorers Public Charter School (warrenyes.org) and children attending Little Explorers will receive enrollment preference to Warren YES.
Scheduling options that meet your needs. Half day or full day care. You can choose 2, 3, 4, or 5 days a week.
We see each day as an adventure, and we’re honored to walk alongside your family as your child grows into a curious, confident learner.
A Note From the Founder, Caroline Hundley:
Dear Families,
I believe early childhood is a beautiful opportunity for nurturing and learning with joy and curiosity like no other time in our children’s lives. As Founder of Warren Little Explorers, I am thrilled to have built a place where your child (and my own!) feels seen, valued and invited to explore our natural world. Our school will center nature, play, and connection for young children, and I strive to bring purpose to every part of the preschool experience so children grow curious minds and kind hearts.
I feel honored to guide this community of young learners in Warren County. If this mission for early care and learning calls to you and your family, please join our waitlist today.
Thank you for your interest, and I hope you come join the fun!
With care,
Caroline Hundley
