Marshalltown, IA

What if the most important years of your child's life felt like adventure?

At Dandy Lion, we believe early learning isn't about rushing into the future — it's about giving children the space, joy, and curiosity to grow at their own extraordinary pace.

Call (641) 691-7513 Learn More

1101

S 7th Ave

50158

Marshalltown

United States

Children learning and playing in a bright early childhood classroom

Nurturing

Every child deserves a warm, safe place to discover the world.

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Child engaged in creative arts and crafts activity

Children playing outdoors in a sunny playground

Teacher reading a storybook to a small group of children

Children building and learning with colorful blocks

About Us

Where little hands learn, big dreams begin

Dandy Lion Early Childhood Learning Place was founded on a simple conviction: the earliest years are not a waiting room for the real world — they are the real world, experienced with wonder and intention.

Located at 1101 S 7th Ave in Marshalltown, our learning environment is designed to feel like a second home — warm, safe, and full of carefully chosen materials that invite exploration. Every detail, from the soft natural light to the low shelves stocked with hands-on discoveries, is intentional.

We partner with families who understand that childhood is not something to hurry through. Here, children build foundational skills through play, conversation, and guided discovery — at a pace that respects their unique developmental rhythm.

Nurturing Care

A home-like atmosphere where every child feels seen and valued.

Curiosity-Driven

Learning through exploration, play, and meaningful experiences.

Our Programs

Programs designed for every stage

Each program is thoughtfully structured to meet children where they are, supporting their growth with age-appropriate activities that feel like play.

Ages 6 weeks – 18 months

Infant Program

A gentle, responsive environment where newborns and babies receive individualized care. Sensory exploration, tummy time, and secure attachments form the foundation of this stage.

Individualized care routines
Sensory-rich environments
Secure attachment focus

Ages 18 months – 3 years

Toddler Program

A dynamic space for curious toddlers who are discovering independence. Through guided play, language-rich interactions, and safe exploration, little ones build confidence with every step.

Language development support
Social-emotional milestones
Safe exploration spaces

Ages 3 – 5 years

Preschool Program

Preparing young learners for the next chapter with early literacy, numeracy, and creative expression. Children engage in project-based learning that builds critical thinking and a lifelong love of discovery.

Early literacy & numeracy
Creative arts integration
School readiness skills

Our Philosophy

Learning that feels like coming home

At Dandy Lion, we don't believe in one-size-fits-all early education. Every child arrives with their own temperament, interests, and timeline — and our approach honors that beautifully.

Our curriculum is rooted in play-based, developmentally appropriate practice. We observe, we respond, and we create rich learning experiences that emerge from children's natural curiosity rather than imposed agendas.

Child-Led Learning

We follow the child's interests and pace, creating meaningful learning moments that stick.

Holistic Development

We nurture cognitive, social, emotional, and physical growth as an integrated whole.

Family Partnership

We welcome families as active partners in their child's learning journey.

Children and teacher sharing a joyful learning moment together

"A place where children are truly seen, heard, and celebrated for who they are."

Our Community

Rooted in Marshalltown

We're proud to serve the Marshalltown community and surrounding areas, providing a safe, enriching environment where children and families thrive together.

Local & Trusted

Located in the heart of Marshalltown, we're a community staple that families know and rely on for quality early childhood care.

Safe & Nurturing

Our facility is designed with child safety and emotional well-being as top priorities, creating a space where parents can feel confident.

Quality Focused

We maintain high standards in our programs, ensuring every child receives the attentive, developmentally appropriate care they deserve.

Visit Us

We'd love to meet you

Whether you're exploring early education options for the first time or looking for a warmer, more personal learning environment, we invite you to come see Dandy Lion for yourself.

Our Location

1101 S 7th Ave
Marshalltown, IA 50158

Call Us

(641) 691-7513

We'd be happy to answer your questions

Send Us a Message

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