About Us

Rooted in family values. Guided by compassion. Dedicated to children.

Our Story

Little Jewels Learning Center is built on a legacy of love.


The name Little Jewels was inspired by a remarkable woman named Jewel. She was a mother whose heart was gentle, whose presence brought peace, and whose love for children was unwavering. She believed that every child was precious, worthy, and deserving of care that protected both their spirit and their future.



That belief became the foundation of this center.



Little Jewels Learning Center exists to reflect her heart. We are a learning environment where children are nurtured with patience, surrounded by love, and guided with intention. Every child who walks through our doors is treated as a rare jewel, valued, respected, and cared for with purpose


Our Philosophy

We believe every child is a precious jewel — unique, worthy, and full of potential.

Our philosophy is rooted in love, consistency, and respect. Children thrive when they feel safe, understood, and encouraged, which is why we focus on:

  • Peaceful, structured environments
  • Positive guidance and patience
  • Age-appropriated learning through play and routine
  • Strong relationships between children, teachers, and families
  • While-child development — emotional, social, and academic

At Little Jewels Learning Center, we partner with families to build strong early foundations, helping children feel confident, capable, and prepared for the future.

Our Mission

To provide a safe, nurturing, and peaceful learning environment where every child is loved, valued, and supported as they grow academically, socially, and emotionally.


Leadership With Heart and Experience

Little Jewels Learning Center was founded by Lathena, a Certified Childcare Director and a mother of eight. Her journey as both a parent and an educator shaped her understanding of what families truly need when choosing childcare.


She knows firsthand the importance of trust, consistency, and peace of mind — and built Little Jewels to be the kind of center she would confidently choose for her own children.


Today, our leadership team continues that vision with hands-on involvement, high standards, and a deep commitment to quality care across all locations.

Leadership With Heart & Experience

Little Jewels Learning Center was founded by Lathena Smith, a Certified Childcare Director and a mother of eight. Her journey as both a parent and an educator shaped her understanding of what families truly need when choosing childcare.


She knows firsthand the importance of trust, consistency, and peace of mind. She built Little Jewels to be the kind of center she would confidently choose for her own children.


Today, our leadership team continues that vision with hands-on involvement, high standards, and a deep commitment to quality care across all locations.

A group of children are sitting around a blue picnic table

Our Mission

To provide a safe, nurturing, and peaceful learning environment where every child is loved, valued, and supported as they grow academically, socially, and emotionally.


At Little Jewels Learning Center, we partner with families to build strong early foundations, helping children feel confident, capable, and prepared for the future.

Serving Orlando Families

With Purpose

Little Jewels Learning Center proudly serves families across Central Florida and partners with local programs and counties to support access to quality early learning.


We are committed to continuous improvement, staff development, and creating spaces where both children and families feel at home.

A woman is holding a little girl in her arms in a circle.

What Sets Us Apart

A Peace-Focused Environment
Our classrooms are designed to feel calm, welcoming, and emotionally safe.


Intentional Care
We focus on routines that support development while honoring each child’s pace.


Whole-Child Growth
We nurture social, emotional, physical, and academic development together.


Family Partnership
We believe families and educators grow children best when they work together.

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions for Parents


We know choosing childcare comes with many questions. Below are answers to some of the most common questions families ask about Little Jewels Learning Center.

  • WHAT AGES DO YOU SERVE?

    Little Jewels Learning Center serves children from infancy through school age. Programs include infant care, toddler care, preschool, VPK, school-age aftercare, and summer camp.

  • WHAT ARE YOUR HOURS OF OPERATION?

    We are open Monday through Friday from 6:30 AM to 6:30 PM. We follow standard holiday closures and notify families in advance.

  • HOW DO I SCHEDULE A TOUR?

    Tours can be scheduled by calling our office or submitting a request through our website contact form. Tours allow families to meet staff, see classrooms, and ask questions.

  • ARE YOU CURRENTLY ENROLLING?

    Enrollment availability depends on classroom openings. Our Orlando location is currently enrolling. When classrooms are full, families may join the waitlist and will be contacted as space becomes available.

  • DO YOU OFFER VPK?

    Yes. We offer Voluntary Pre-Kindergarten (VPK) for eligible four-year-olds. Extended-day options are available for families who need full-day care.

  • DO YOU PROVIDE TRANSPORTATION?

    Transportation may be available for school-age children depending on location, school, and enrollment availability. Please contact us to confirm current transportation options.

  • ARE MEALS INCLUDED?

    Yes. Breakfast, lunch, and snacks are served daily and are included with tuition. Families should inform the center of any allergies or dietary restrictions.

  • HOW DO YOU HANDLE BEHAVIOR AND DISCIPLINE?

    We use positive behavior guidance techniques focused on teaching, redirection, and encouragement. Physical discipline or harsh punishment is never permitted.

  • WHAT SAFETY MEASURES ARE IN PLACE?

    Child safety is a top priority. We follow Florida DCF guidelines, maintain appropriate teacher-to-child ratios, conduct regular safety drills, and enforce strict sanitation practices.

  • WHAT IF MY CHILD IS SICK?

    Children should remain home if they have a fever, vomiting, diarrhea, or a contagious illness. Families will be contacted if a child becomes ill during the day.

  • WHAT IS REQUIRED FOR ENROLLMENT?

    Enrollment requires completed enrollment forms, emergency contact information, health and immunization records, an authorized pickup list, and signed policies.

  • DO YOU OFFER PART-TIME CARE?

    Yes. Part-time care options are available depending on classroom availability and program needs.

  • HOW CAN I STAY INFORMED ABOUT MY CHILD’S DAY?

    We believe communication is essential. Families receive updates, reminders, and information to stay connected and informed about their child’s experience.

  • WHO CAN I CONTACT WITH ADDITIONAL QUESTIONS?

    You can reach us directly by phone or through the contact form on our website.


    Little Jewels Learning Center

    Phone: 407-577-6055 | 407-601-6025

    Locations:

    Orlando: 4819 Skeena St, Orlando, FL 32819

    Winter Haven: 1200 NW 34th St, Winter Haven, FL 33881 (Soon to Open)

Schedule A Tour
Three black stars are silhouetted against a white background.

Where Every Child Is Loved, Nurtured and Treated Like a Jewel

Quality early learning and childcare rooted in love, structure, and purpose.

serving infants through school-age children.