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A Place Where Every Child Feels Safe, Inspired, and Ready to Grow

Play-Based Child Care and Early Learning Programs


Every child deserves a place where they feel safe, encouraged, and excited to learn. At Steps & Stages, children are given the freedom to explore, create, move, and grow in an environment designed to support every stage of development. Serving families throughout Wendell and Zebulon, NC, and surrounding communities, our center combines nurturing care with engaging educational experiences that help children build confidence, independence, and a lifelong love of learning.

Founded on the belief that children learn best through hands-on experiences, imagination, and meaningful relationships, our programs are carefully designed to support cognitive, social, emotional, and physical development. Families trust our team because we provide more than child care—we create opportunities for children to discover their strengths, develop new skills, and thrive in a welcoming environment where they feel valued every day.

Whether you are searching for infant care, preschool education, or after-school programs, our experienced team is committed to helping your child reach important developmental milestones while making learning fun and engaging.

Why Families Choose Steps & Stages


Choosing a child care provider is one of the most important decisions a parent can make. Families choose Steps & Stages because of our commitment to safety, individualized learning, creativity, and movement-based development.

Some of the reasons families continue to trust us include:

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Four-Star Licensed Child Care Center

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Five-Star Licensed Second Location

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More Than 25 Years of Child Care Experience

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Serving Families Since 2016

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Play-Based Learning Curriculum

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Safe and Secure Learning Environments

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Daily Physical Activity and Movement-Focused Learning

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Social and Emotional Development Activities

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Healthy Meals and Snacks Included

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Subsidized Child Care Participation for Eligible Families

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Caring Educators Who Build Meaningful Relationships With Children

Every classroom is designed to create a positive atmosphere where children can feel comfortable exploring their interests, asking questions, and building the skills needed for future success.

Child Care Programs Designed for Every Stage of Development


Children grow and learn differently at every age. That is why our programs are tailored to meet the developmental needs of each stage while encouraging creativity, curiosity, and confidence.

Infant and Toddler Care (Ages 0–2)

The earliest years of life are filled with incredible growth and discovery. Our infant and toddler program provides a nurturing environment where children receive attentive care while developing early language, motor, sensory, and social skills through age-appropriate activities and guided exploration.

Preschool Programs (Ages 2–5)

Our preschool program encourages children to learn through play, movement, and hands-on experiences. Activities are designed to support school readiness while helping children develop communication, problem-solving, creativity, and social skills that prepare them for future academic success.

School-Age and After-School Care (Ages 5–12)

School-age children benefit from a structured yet enjoyable environment where they can relax, complete homework, participate in enrichment activities, build friendships, and stay active after the school day ends.

Learning Through Creativity, Movement, and Exploration


Movement and creativity are at the heart of everything we do. Inspired by owner Samone Cole's background in kinesiology and athletics, our approach encourages children to learn through active participation rather than passive observation.

Our research-based, developmentally appropriate curriculum supports:

  • Early Literacy Development
  • Language and Communication Skills
  • Creative Expression
  • Social and Emotional Growth
  • Critical Thinking
  • Physical Development and Coordination
  • Problem-Solving Skills
  • Positive Relationship Building

Our goal is to create meaningful learning experiences that inspire children to explore the world around them while developing confidence in their abilities.

A Safe, Caring Environment Where Children Thrive


Strong relationships are the foundation of a successful early learning experience. Every member of our team is dedicated to creating a warm, welcoming environment where children feel supported, respected, and encouraged.

We believe that children thrive when families and educators work together. Open communication, mutual trust, and a shared commitment to each child's growth help create a positive experience for both children and parents.

From the moment families walk through our doors, they become part of a community that values learning, kindness, creativity, and collaboration.

Schedule a Tour and Discover the Difference


Finding the right child care center starts with finding the right fit for your family. We invite you to learn more about our programs, meet our caring team, and see firsthand how children learn, play, and grow in our nurturing environment.

Call Steps & Stages today at (919) 365-0028 to schedule a tour or speak with a member of our team about enrollment opportunities in Zebulon, NC.

Steps & Stages is the best! My daughter has been there for 3 years & has learned so much. The teachers don't treat the kids like they are babysitting, they actually TEACH. I know my daughter will be well equipped & prepared for kindergarten.

Faithe Davis (Parent)


Staff is super awesome. they are family friendly. they cater wonderfully to my child's allergy

Melissa Smith (Parent)


Ready to give your child a safe, engaging, and enriching place to learn and grow? Call Steps & Stages at (919) 365-0028 today to schedule a tour and learn more about our programs in Zebulon, NC.