Welcome to Weathers Learning Academy
Weathers Learning Academy is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit early childhood center in Hawthorne, CA, serving children 18 months to 4 years. Founded in 2018, we provide a safe, play-based learning environment that nurtures emotional, social, and cognitive development. Our small class sizes ensure individualized care, and our curriculum grows from children’s natural curiosity. We believe early education is life itself—not just preparation for it—and prioritize joy, relationships, and respect over rigid academics. Families are true partners in this journey, and we maintain open, daily communication. Our nonprofit status allows us to reinvest all resources into program quality, never profit.
We operate with a 1:4 adult-to-toddler ratio—exceeding state requirements—and use only open-ended, non-toxic materials. Screens are never used; learning happens through hands-on exploration, storytelling, music, and outdoor play. We honor each child’s pace, support diverse needs, and celebrate cultural and linguistic diversity. Sustainability, emotional safety, and community are core to our identity. We aim not to be the biggest center, but the most thoughtful, loving, and responsive one in South Bay Los Angeles.
Every child here is seen as a unique spirit, not an enrollment number. We document growth through portfolios shared with families and measure success by confidence, kindness, and curiosity—not test scores. Our space is calm, beautiful, and intentionally prepared to inspire independence and wonder. We invite you to visit and experience the Weathers Learning Academy difference: where care, learning, and joy grow together.
Programs & Services
We offer full-day, year-round care for children 18 months to 4 years, blending education and nurturing in a consistent, relationship-based program. The day includes free play, small-group activities, outdoor time, rest, and healthy nut-free snacks. Literacy, math, and science emerge naturally through stories, blocks, songs, and real-life experiences. We follow an emergent, play-based curriculum aligned with California’s early learning foundations but shaped by children’s interests. Parent communication happens daily and through biannual conferences.
Safety is foundational—physical and emotional. We exceed licensing standards with secure entry, low ratios, CPR-trained staff, and trauma-informed practices. Children are never punished; instead, we teach emotional regulation and conflict resolution with empathy. Our outdoor space is fully fenced, shaded, and rich with natural play elements. All routines—handwashing, meals, transitions—are treated as learning opportunities. We do not offer drop-in care, ensuring stability for every child.
While focused on direct care today, we plan to expand with parent workshops, developmental screenings, and community events. We maintain strong referral partnerships for specialized support and offer limited scholarships. Our growth will always prioritize quality over scale, keeping our center intimate, warm, and deeply connected to families.
About Us
Founded in 2018 by local educators and parents, Weathers Learning Academy was created to fill a gap in affordable, high-quality early care in Hawthorne. As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, we operate independently—no franchise, no profit motive. Our name reflects our core belief: just as weather shapes nature, a nurturing emotional climate shapes a child. We’re licensed by California DSS and exceed regulatory standards in ratios, training, and family engagement. Our director brings 15+ years of early education experience.
Our team includes part-time, bilingual educators who are fairly compensated and supported—a rarity in childcare. Many hold degrees in child development, and all receive ongoing training in trauma-informed care and anti-bias education. Low turnover ensures consistency for children. We’re proud of our collaborative culture, where teachers are trusted professionals, not task-doers. Families often say their children feel “seen” here—our highest honor.
We’re funded by tuition (set below market rate), small grants, and tax-deductible donations. 70% of expenses go to staff compensation—because great care starts with respected educators. We publish annual impact reports and welcome donor inquiries. Our dream is long-term sustainability with a permanent facility, but for now, we make our current space a haven of joy, safety, and wonder for every child who walks through our door.
Contact Us
We’re honored to connect with families, donors, and community partners who share our vision for joyful, high-quality early education. Tours are by appointment only due to limited capacity, and we often maintain a waitlist—early inquiries are encouraged. We respond to all messages within one business day and offer accommodations for accessibility needs. For enrollment, donations, or general questions, please use the form below or reach out directly.
Send Us a Message
All donations are tax-deductible (EIN available upon request). Due to our small size, we cannot accommodate drop-in visits or emergency childcare. Thank you for supporting our mission to give every child a strong, joyful start.