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Celebrating 70 years serving the Dover community!

Welcome to the little school at Kids Cottage – A Tradition of Excellence in Early Childhood Education

For over 70 years, the little school has been a cornerstone of early childhood education in the Dover, DE community, providing a nurturing and enriching environment where young learners thrive. Our commitment to excellence has earned us the prestigious Best Preschool award for multiple years, a testament to the dedication of our educators and the quality of our programs. At the little school, we believe that early learning should be engaging, inspiring, and tailored to each child's unique growth. Our experienced teachers foster curiosity, creativity, and confidence through a curriculum that blends play-based learning with strong foundational skills. We take pride in creating a warm, inclusive atmosphere where children feel safe, supported, and excited to explore the world around them.

Join our little school family and experience a preschool that has shaped generations of young minds with love, learning, and excellence.

Our Core Values *

Unity *

Quality *

Integrity *

Respect *

Education *

Service *

Our Core Values * Unity * Quality * Integrity * Respect * Education * Service *

Our History

Hattye Mae Biddle and Penny Fox established the little school in 1954 in Penny’s home with 11 children. In 1966, the little school moved to 308 North Queen Street into an old farmhouse known as the Tomlinson House. The little school has been the cornerstone for educating young children ever since it opened its door.

M.Jane Richter assumed ownership of the little school in 1975. Seeing the need for children of working families to have a consistent, nurturing environment for the before and after school hours, the idea of Afternoon Little was established by Linda Butala in 1979.

In January 2009, a new chapter to this well-known story began when Shannon Mercer and Lisa Ratliff assumed ownership of the little school. Shannon and Lisa have not only been lifelong friends but once walked the halls of the little school as preschoolers. Alexis Stotler, our current director, joined the team in 2019. A little school alumni herself, Alexis looks forward to carrying on the legacy for many years to come!

Over the years, the little school has served families with a team approach and commitment to developing the whole child within an ever changing family dynamic. In the spirit of the old saying, “It takes a village,” we do just that here at the little school in partnership with our teachers, families and friends. The little school works to build skills for a life of success and fulfillment. In order to achieve this goal, a priority is set to create lasting, strong and positive relationships between the child, family and school.

Our Vision

We lead with compassion, reach for excellence, and provide a high-quality learning environment.

Our Mission

We share love and understanding with families, while supporting their children in their social-emotional, intellectual and physical development. We provide a safe environment where we encourage growth, discovery, play, and creativity.