About Us

Welcome to the Little Grove! The Little Grove is a special place where children of all ages explore, socialize, and create. We understand that your childcare needs may change weekly or even daily, and that they vary by family. We offer morning and afternoon sessions for your preschooler that you can purchase with no commitment. We also offer monthly and daily tot programs, plus afternoon classes and workshops for older children, tutoring, and yoga.

During our “morning little makers” for preschoolers, your child will benefit from a variety of activity centers, including craft projects, sensory table exploration, dramatic play, books, and puzzles. There will be a new and interesting theme that changes monthly. We will enjoy songs, stories, and activities related to that theme. We will also have a snack time together. At the end of class each day, we will join together on the rug for meeting time to read stories and sing songs.

We also offer yoga and art classes, as well as tutoring for school-age children. We look forward to meeting your family!

For our current program schedule, click the programs drop-down menu in the navigation.

About Tracy Hartford

My name is Tracy Hartford, and I am an inspired teacher who believes children learn best through deep, meaningful play. In late 2018, I took a leap of faith and left my full-time teaching job to open this center. It started with a vision of how I wanted to live my life and feel more connected to my work. From the moment we opened our doors, the universe has shown me that this is my path to fulfillment and success.

My teaching philosophy is founded on fostering a quality play-based educational environment in a safe, nurturing atmosphere. I pride myself on extending my caring personality to both the children and the families I work with. My husband, two children, and I have lived in West Newbury for the last 18 years. My background as an educator, with a Master’s degree in Child Development and 15 years of teaching in public and private preschools and public elementary schools, has given me the experience to create a unique, exciting educational environment for young children. I feel honored to offer this community a quality learning environment. I have 20 years of early education experience in both public and private school settings. I love working with children of all ages and am especially passionate about play-based learning.

Teaching Experience

Newbury Elementary School, Newbury, MA

Pathways for Learning, West Newbury, MA     

Hill View Montessori School, Haverhill, MA  

The Children’s Place, Boston, MA

Certifications

Master of Science, Human Development, Wheelock College, 1992

Bachelor of Science, Early Childhood Education and Family Studies, University of New Hampshire, 1988

Massachusetts Early Education and Care Standard Certificate