About Steps & Stages and Our Passion for Early Childhood Development
Every child deserves a place where they feel safe, encouraged, and inspired to become the best version of themselves. At Steps & Stages, that belief serves as the foundation for everything we do. Families throughout Zebulon, NC, and the surrounding communities trust our team to provide a nurturing environment where children can learn, grow, explore, and thrive through meaningful experiences tailored to their unique developmental journey.
Since opening in 2016, our center has been dedicated to supporting working families by providing high-quality child care and early learning programs that focus on the whole child. Through a combination of play-based learning, creative exploration, physical movement, and positive relationships, we help children develop the confidence and skills they need both inside and outside the classroom.
We believe childhood should be filled with curiosity, laughter, imagination, and discovery. Every day brings new opportunities for children to build friendships, strengthen their abilities, and develop a lifelong love of learning in a safe and welcoming environment.
A Vision Inspired by Movement, Creativity, and Purpose
The story behind Steps & Stages begins with a passion for helping children grow through movement, creativity, and meaningful connections.
Owner Samone Cole earned her degree in kinesiology and physical education from Fresno State University while competing as a highly accomplished track and field athlete. During her time working with youth through track camps and clinics, she discovered a passion that extended beyond athletics—a desire to positively impact children's lives through education, encouragement, and development.
As a wife and mother of three sons, Samone understands the importance of finding a child care provider that parents can trust. Her personal experiences inspired her vision of creating a center where children are encouraged to move, create, imagine, and learn in ways that feel natural and enjoyable.
That vision continues to guide every aspect of our programs today.
Creating Meaningful Learning Experiences for Every Child
No two children learn in exactly the same way. Some children thrive through creative expression, while others learn best through movement, hands-on activities, or social interaction.
That is why our philosophy centers on providing individualized learning experiences that recognize and celebrate each child's unique strengths, interests, and personality.
Rather than focusing solely on academic milestones, we take a holistic approach that supports every area of development, including:
- Cognitive Growth
- Social Development
- Emotional Well-Being
- Physical Development
- Communication Skills
- Creativity and Imagination
- Problem-Solving Abilities
- Self-Confidence and Independence
By creating engaging opportunities for exploration and discovery, we help children build important life skills while developing a positive attitude toward learning.
A Play-Based Approach to Early Learning
Play is more than fun — it is one of the most effective ways children learn about themselves and the world around them.
Our classrooms incorporate age-appropriate activities that encourage curiosity, exploration, and active participation. Through hands-on learning experiences, children are encouraged to ask questions, experiment with new ideas, solve problems, and express themselves creatively.
This approach allows children to develop essential academic and developmental skills while remaining engaged and excited about learning.
Whether they are creating artwork, participating in movement activities, building friendships, or exploring new concepts, children are constantly learning through meaningful experiences designed to support their growth.
The Values That Guide Everything We Do
The culture of Steps & Stages is built upon a set of core values that influence every interaction, lesson, and experience within our center.
Our core values include:
- Child-Centered Learning
- Fun and Engaging Experiences
- Safety and Security
- Play-Based Education
- Movement and Physical Development
- Nurturing Relationships
- Inclusivity and Diversity
- Continuous Improvement
- Family Collaboration and Partnership
These values help us create an environment where children feel respected, supported, and empowered to succeed.
Supporting Families Through Every Stage
Strong partnerships between families and educators create the best outcomes for children. We believe parents should feel connected, informed, and confident in their child's care and development.
By maintaining open communication and fostering meaningful relationships with families, we create a supportive community that helps children flourish at every stage of growth.
Whether a child is taking their first steps, preparing for kindergarten, or participating in after-school enrichment, our goal remains the same: to provide a safe, nurturing, and stimulating environment where every child feels valued, loved, and inspired to reach their full potential.