There’s a gem of a preschool, VPK and afterschool care center right here in our neighborhood! It’s called Creative World School in Apollo Beach and serves about 180 kids, some as young as 6 weeks old, from the community. The after school program includes kids from nearby elementary schools: Apollo Beach, Corr and Cypress Creek, Doby, Thompson, and Waterset.
What makes Creative World so special? Lots of things, actually, but for one--the teaching philosophy is centered around their “Exploratorium” a unique hands-on learning environment where kids can learn the way kids learn best--through exploration. The curriculum includes science, technology, engineering, art and math as well as drama, cooking, music and movement.
“I love coming to work everyday and watching these kids grow and learn”, says Charlene Wiggins, school owner and operator. A Ruskin resident and mom to two grown girls, Cheryl and Amber, Charlene has been teaching for over 15 years and has been the director of Creative World since 2005.
When the opportunity to own the school came up in May of 2015, it was a natural fit, so she and her husband, Daniel, jumped in.
“We are like one big happy family here”, explained Charlene. "In fact, many of our students come to us by referral of the students and families who came before them and felt at home here." The staff is very well experienced and credentialed—most of them have been with the school for 4-12 years. In an industry that typically has high turnover rates—that really says a lot. The staff obviously loves it here as much as the kids and their families.
Creative World School puts on several special events throughout the year that are open to the public—a great way to come and check them out for your own kids! In August, they do an Ooey Gooey Open House, a Fall Festival in October, a Winter Performance in December and a Multicultural Festival in February. Their graduation ceremony takes place in June and then it’s time for Summer camp! You can find out more about them on their website: www.creativeworldschool.com and on their Facebook page: Creative World School Apollo Beach.
Creative World School’s family environment is a wonderful place where your kids will fall in love with learning and exploring the world around them!
5931 Frond Way
Apollo Beach, Florida 33572
And don't forget their fabulous Summer Camp!!
