Bright Harbor School
Request InfoWelcome to Bright Harbor School
At Bright Harbor School in Bentonville, Arkansas, we understand what families want most: a safe, loving environment where children are truly known and cared for. That’s why we provide exceptional childcare for children from infants to school-age, all in one convenient location designed with families in mind.
Nurturing Care for Every Stage of Development
Our experienced team is dedicated to helping your child thrive at every stage. In our infant program, babies are cared for by consistent, loving caregivers who focus on comfort, routine, and developmental support. As your child grows, they’ll transition into our toddler program, where age-appropriate learning and play spark confidence, independence, and curiosity.
Hands-On Learning and Enrichment for Every Child
Our teachers plan with Learning Beyond Paper, a curriculum with thousands of hands-on activities that build early literacy, STEAM, and social-emotional skills. Children also enjoy weekly enrichment with Soccer Shots, Tippy Toes dance, and Baller Bugs. Mornings are easy, too: there’s no cutoff time for drop-off, so you can come in when your day starts.
Engaging After-School Programs and Summer Camps
For older children, we offer after-school programs and exciting summer camps that blend learning and fun through enriching activities, homework support, and plenty of time to connect with friends.
Trusted Childcare in the Heart of Bentonville
Located in the heart of Bentonville, our center makes it easy for busy families to access trusted, high-quality care. Join our childcare community and experience the peace of mind that comes from knowing your child is in a place where they can grow, learn, and shine with confidence.
Meet Our Director
Hi! My name is Josie Rudelis, and I am the Center Director at Bright Harbor – Bentonville. I have 10 years of experience in Early Childhood Education, including one year as a Director, and hold a Bachelor’s Degree in Organizational Leadership. I am also a proud mother.
I have always had a passion for working with young children. One of my favorite parts of early childhood education is seeing the excitement on children’s faces when they accomplish a new goal. I enjoy providing a safe and fun learning environment for every child. My hope is that every family who walks through our doors feels welcomed and confident in choosing Bright Harbor as their child’s school. I am excited to bring my childcare knowledge and positive outlook to our center!
Bright Harbor FAQs
What ages does Bright Harbor School in Bentonville serve?
Bright Harbor School cares for children from 6 weeks old through age 12, all in one location. Our programs include infant care (ages 0 to 1), toddler care (ages 1 to 2), play-based preschool (ages 3 to 4), and Pre-K (ages 4 to 5). For school-age children ages 5 to 12, we offer before and after school care, care during school breaks and holidays, and summer camp. Many families find it helpful to have siblings of different ages at the same school.
Where is Bright Harbor School located, and what are your hours?
We’re located at 1002 SW I St in Bentonville, AR 72712. We’re open Monday through Friday from 6:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., which gives working parents time for an early start or a later pickup. Families come to us from across Bentonville and nearby Rogers, Bella Vista, Centerton, and Cave Springs. You can reach us at (479) 319-6394.
Do you offer drop-in or part-time care?
We offer full-time programs only. Coming every day gives children a consistent routine with the same teachers and classmates, which helps them feel secure and settle into learning. If you have specific scheduling needs, give us a call at (479) 319-6394 and we’ll be happy to talk through your options.
What’s the difference between preschool and Pre-K at Bright Harbor?
Our preschool program is for children ages 3 to 4. It’s a play-based program where teachers plan weekly lessons around hands-on exploration, children choose their own learning stations, and they build early skills in math, science, reading, and writing through play. Our Pre-K program is for children ages 4 to 5. It follows a more school-like schedule and sets personalized goals for each child, so they’re ready for the move to kindergarten.
What curriculum does Bright Harbor School use?
Our teachers plan with Learning Beyond Paper, a curriculum with thousands of hands-on activities for infants through Pre-K. Lessons build early literacy, STEAM, and social-emotional skills through play.
How does Pre-K at Bright Harbor help my child get ready for kindergarten?
Pre-K gives children a school-like daily schedule, so the routine of kindergarten feels familiar. Each child has personalized goals. Inside the classroom, children might play letter and number games, explore early math with hands-on tools, and build fine motor skills through projects like bead threading and painting. Outside, they might go on nature scavenger hunts that build gross motor and problem-solving skills. Art, music, movement, and language activities help them practice teamwork and self-expression.
What does a day look like in the infant room?
We follow each baby’s own daily routine for feeding, sleeping, and play, and include familiar activities like story time and gentle rocking so babies feel at home. Babies explore sensory materials, toys, and mirrors, and discover new textures and sounds. Our infant program supports physical and cognitive development, emotional support, social interaction, and trust and bonding with their caregivers. Families receive meal and nap updates throughout the day.
What will my toddler do during the day?
Toddlers often start the day with circle time, singing songs and sharing stories that build language and social skills. They move on to sensory play with materials like sand and water, experiment with paints and markers in the art corner, and build with blocks or solve simple puzzles during structured play. Our toddler teachers also help children practice empathy and cooperation, so they learn how to play and connect with friends.
Do you offer before and after school care in Bentonville?
Yes. Our school-age program offers morning and afternoon care for children ages 5 to 12. Teachers help with homework, from science to social studies, and children have plenty of time for independent and outdoor play, sports, and games with friends. We also provide care during school breaks and holidays, so families have a plan when school is out.
How will I stay updated on my child’s day?
Families receive daily digital updates with photos of their child’s activities, plus updates on meals and naps. You can also message your child’s teacher before arriving to share how the morning went, which helps make drop-off smoother. Teachers meet with families at parent-teacher conferences twice a year: in the fall to get to know each other and set goals, and in the spring to review progress and set new goals.
How do you keep children safe?
The safety of every child is our top priority. Only pre-approved adults with photo identification can pick up a child, and families and other authorized people enter a code on a keypad to reach the classroom area. Our Bentonville school follows Arkansas child care licensing requirements for health, safety, and security. You can learn more on our Safety & Security page.
How can I help my child adjust to starting daycare?
Starting a new school is a big change, and it’s normal for children to need a little time. A few things can help: talk about the new school in a positive way before the first day, keep your goodbye short and loving, and use the same goodbye routine every day. At Bright Harbor, you can message your child’s teacher before drop-off, and our daily updates and photos let you see how your child is settling in. Your child’s teacher is always happy to share tips.
How do I schedule a tour and enroll?
The best first step is a tour. You can schedule a tour online or call us at (479) 319-6394. During your visit, you’ll see our classrooms, meet our teachers, and get answers to your questions. Openings vary by age group, so our team will let you know what’s available for your child and walk you through the enrollment process.