Preschool & Childcare Center Serving Sioux Falls, SD

Welcome to Learning Ladder Adventures! We’re a close-knit community right in the heart of downtown Sioux Falls. You’ll find us on the corner of 6th Street and Spring Avenue in a cozy, renovated space that’s been part of the neighborhood for years. Once run by Volunteers of America, our center sat quietly for a while — until we brought it back to life with a whole lot of love and care.

Our story began with a dream — one that’s been growing for over 25 years. After decades of working in other childcare centers, Danay Johnson knew it was time to create something of her own: a space where children thrive through feeling loved and important.

She holds a Child Development Associate (CDA) credential and has led classrooms, mentored teachers, and built programs that inspire young learners. But more than anything, Danay is passionate about making every child feel loved, empowered, and ready for their next step.

With her husband Paul by her side, the couple found a long-closed childcare facility, poured themselves into a full renovation, and opened the doors to Learning Ladder Adventures in October 2023. Today, Danay is on-site every day, leading with heart, greeting families, supporting staff, and doing what she loves most — ensuring every child (and parent) feels at home.

This isn’t just a job for us — it’s our calling, and it shows in every corner of our classrooms and every connection we build.

Your Child Will Experience Care That’s:

Play-Based

Because learning should be fun!

Montessori-Inspired

To encourage independence and curiosity.

Literacy-Rich

Builds the foundation for strong language and learning skills.

Family-Owned, Family-Run, Family-Focused

We’re proudly family-owned and operated, weaving the family feel into everything we do. Parents feel it the moment they walk in, and children feel it with every smile from a teacher who greets them by name. Danay’s decades of experience, combined with Paul’s hands-on support and passion, created a space where we value staff, truly know families, and celebrate all the kids in our care.

We Live By Our Core Values:

Fun

Every day is full of joy, imagination, and play.

Friendships

We nurture connections that make kids feel seen, safe, and supported.

Stimulating Activities

From sensory play to early literacy, we keep little minds growing.

Experiences

We believe in creating memories, not just milestones.

Love

Deep care and respect are at the heart of everything we do.

Learning

We build strong foundations that last a lifetime.

Laughter

Because childhood should be full of giggles and joy.

A Place Parents Can Truly Trust

We know how hard it is to leave your child with someone new. That’s why trust and safety are at the core of our mission. We have several safety measures in place for your peace of mind, including:

Locked doors that require key or fob access
A fully fenced yard for safe outdoor play
30 security cameras throughout the center
Live-streaming access for parents
CPR-trained staff and a team who treats your child like their own

Our Mission is Simple: To Provide Exceptional Care and Earn the Trust of Our Community. Your Child is Safe With Us.

Watch Your Child Climb the Ladder of Success With a Loving Team That Feels Like Family. Enroll Today!