Thunder Hill
Columbia Academy Thunder Hill Preschool & Daycare Alternative
Location
Phone
Hours of Operation
Monday through Friday
7:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Ages
6 weeks through 5 years.
Full-time and part-time options
We offer flexible scheduling options including full-time and part-time enrollment to meet your family's needs.
Is potty training required?
No, potty training not required. Our experienced teachers support children through this important milestone.
What curriculum do you follow?
We use a project-based curriculum that encourages exploration, discovery, and hands-on learning through engaging activities.
When should I enroll?
Enrollment opens throughout the year, though spaces fill quickly. We recommend applying early to secure your preferred start date.
What do parents say about us?
Read reviews for our Thunder Hill location and see why families love us.
How Do I Start?
Schedule a tour to visit our Thunder Hill location, meet our teachers, and learn about our programs. Call (410) 992-0484 or contact us online. Families can also reach out via email for more information or personalized assistance by using our website's contact form.
Columbia Academy in Thunder Hill stands out among private schools in Columbia MD, because of our exceptional and preschool programs. We believe that the children in our care deserve the best possible start to their lives, and we aim to provide that through exceptional education.
Our Howard County, Maryland location serves families seeking quality early childhood education with experienced teachers, an innovative curriculum, and safe learning environments. We provide children with the freedom to explore, learn at their own pace, and develop independence within a supportive community. We prepare children for academic success while developing essential life skills.
This is the first step that will help shape the rest of their lives.
What Makes Us Different at Columbia Academy Thunder Hill
Columbia Academy Preschool in Thunder Hill stands out among private preschools in Howard County because of our unique themed environments and comprehensive approach to early childhood education. We believe the environment a child learns in makes all the difference, especially in these early years.
At our Thunder Hill location, children explore under-the-sea adventures on our first floor and embark on safari discoveries on the second floor. These immersive settings spark curiosity and make learning feel like an exciting journey every day.
Our preschool is near the Howard County Courthouse and Long Gate Shopping Plaza makes drop-off and pickup convenient for busy families. We provide multiple playgrounds designed for different age groups, ensuring each child has age-appropriate spaces to develop gross motor skills and social connections. When Maryland weather keeps us indoors, our multipurpose room offers plenty of space for active play and group activities.
Security remains a top priority with our key code entry system that only allows authorized access, while access is blocked for anyone without proper authorization. Parents feel confident knowing their children learn in a safe, nurturing environment where experienced teachers focus on each child's individual growth and development.
Our Private School Programs in Thunder Hill
Our caring teachers provide individualized attention for your youngest learners, creating secure attachments that form the foundation for future learning. The infant program focuses on nurturing development through responsive caregiving and sensory exploration.
Toddlers discover their independence while developing language, motor skills, and social awareness through structured play and exploration. Our toddler program encourages curiosity and self-confidence in a supportive environment.
Children build school readiness skills through hands-on activities, creative expression, and collaborative learning experiences. Our preschool curriculum prepares children for the next step in their educational journey.
This bridge program provides an extra year of development for children who need more time before traditional kindergarten. Our transitional kindergarten program builds strong academic foundations at each child's pace.
We offer convenient before and after school care with transportation to Thunder Hill Elementary School, making your daily routine easier while keeping your child engaged in meaningful activities.
Our Private School Programs in Thunder Hill
Our caring teachers provide individualized attention for your youngest learners, creating secure attachments that form the foundation for future learning. The infant program focuses on nurturing development through responsive caregiving and sensory exploration.
Toddlers discover their independence while developing language, motor skills, and social awareness through structured play and exploration. Our toddler program encourages curiosity and self-confidence in a supportive environment.
Children build school readiness skills through hands-on activities, creative expression, and collaborative learning experiences. Our preschool curriculum prepares children for the next step in their educational journey.
This bridge program provides an extra year of development for children who need more time before traditional kindergarten. Our transitional kindergarten program builds strong academic foundations at each child's pace.
We offer convenient before and after school care with transportation to Thunder Hill Elementary School, making your daily routine easier while keeping your child engaged in meaningful activities.
Testimonials
J.B.
August 7, 2025
While we’ve had a positive experience since our son started at Columbia Academy, his current teacher has been particularly wonderful — communicative, engaging, with a clear passion for educating kids and a dedicated effort to making my son feel comfortable and valued — and is the main reason why I’d rate the school so highly.
J.M.
July 7, 2025
We have enjoyed being at CA for the last 5 years. The school is well-kept, clean and welcoming. The teachers have been great throughout the years as well. I appreciate the updates and pictures in tadpoles.
S.W.
June 27, 2025
I think staff retention is very important. I know sometimes it’s unavoidable but it’s very stressful on parents and kids to change/lose main teachers and school leaders in such quick succession. I have noticed more stability in the newest leadership which is appreciated.
E.M.
June 17, 2025
I have loved Columbia Academy. Mr. Shane has been so good with my son and he’s very very kind with all of his students. The curriculum is amazing and I truly think this school has helped my son prepare for success in kindergarten. Thank you so much!
C.B.
April 8, 2025
I do wish Endeavor would support our school’s teachers and directors more during staff shortages so that they could keep up with things like newsletters, posting schedules outside classes, etc. I also hope our assistant director is getting a lot of recognition for holding things down since we have had 3 different directors since my child enrolled a year ago. I’m not sure why she didn’t get promoted honestly!
K.M.
April 8, 2025
I like to know that my daughter is in a safe space to learn and grow. Her teachers truly care about her.
C.T.
March 11, 2025
I think the staff truly cares about the kids. My son has a great time every day and the programs provided are super beneficial.
C.M.
February 11, 2025
The staff
K.R.
January 21, 2025
The staff is fabulous! They truly care for their students and create a wonderful learning environment. My child is only 6 months old and she’s excited every time she sees her teachers. It’s such an overwhelming comfort as a parent to know your child is in a safe and loving place being taken care of by the best teachers.
L.C.
December 10, 2024
I love the faculty and staff at Columbia Academy Thunder Hill. Courtney is a wonderful school leader and has been a consistent presence for us and our children throughout our time there. Ms. Yolanda is the definition of an amazing Pre-K teacher. She knows the children and their unique needs. She is friendly, personable, and open to conversations with parents. In all, she is just wonderful. My concern is that some teachers/staff have left and this puts additional burden on those who are still there. It’s not sustainable and I hope this can be resolved quickly.
A Private School Serving Howard County
Columbia Academy operates multiple locations serving the surrounding areas:
Columbia Academy Thunder Hill proudly serves families throughout the Columbia area and surrounding Howard County communities. Visit our locations page to learn about all Columbia Academy campuses serving your area throughout Columbia, Ellicott City, and surrounding Maryland communities.
Discover how our approach can make a lasting difference in your child's life. Contact us today to learn more, schedule a tour, and become part of our vibrant school community.
Testimonials
Kahdijah D.
October 1, 2025
Being a single mom with a speech delayed child is challenging. Everyday when I drop my daughter off her teachers greet her and welcome her in a way that works best for her. They take extra time to comfort her and it gives me ease of mind while l at work that’s she’s well taking care of. Seeing her run to her teacher in the morning. We all don’t have a village but I feel like we’ve found ours in her teachers. I appreciate all of they hard work and support.
Kristi F.
August 20, 2025
I love our Teachers! They do such a good job keeping the atmosphere fun and have new and engaging activities each day. The best part is, is that when I leave, I know my son is safe and is in the hands of people that love and care about him. If I could give a higher score, I would!! I love this team of ladies!
A.D.
June 1, 2025
My son loves the Daycare and the teacher is there. This is the first time he’s ever spoken out loud and is happy to go to Daycare.
C.B.
May 6, 2025
The teachers are amazing, supportive, loving and caring
L.J.
April 8, 2025
The environment is tailored to learning which allows my daughter to freely explore and develop at her own pace.
Robertha G.
April 8, 2025
I kids been attending Step by Step for a weeks now and they love it there.
Annie C.
March 11, 2025
Friendly, respectful, caring, and resourceful
Lissa F.
February 18, 2025
The director and assistant director really listen to parents and are attentive to needs. I also am so grateful for their flexibility as my children are in the foster care system so they can come and go. I love having a center I can rely on. The teachers care and do their best and I see my kids thrive in the environment.
Jennifer J.
January 21, 2025
The teachers are very personable and they love the kiddos, you can tell. I love the app they use to keep you in the loop on what’s going on. They also occasionally send pics of what your child is doing in the app too.
H.K.
January 14, 2025
The school has great teachers and take immediate actions to protect our babies. The teachers are kind, they listen to our concerns, and want to help your child succeed outside of the classroom.
Frequently Asked Questions
Thunder Hill combines themed learning environments with experienced teachers who understand child development. Our under-the-sea and safari themes create immersive experiences that make learning exciting and memorable for young children.
Awards & Distinctions
Columbia Academy earned recognition as an American Heart Association Top 25 School, demonstrating our commitment to promoting healthy lifestyle choices for children and families. Our accreditation reflects the high standards we maintain across all programs and locations.
Our experienced teachers hold relevant degrees and certifications in early childhood education, bringing expertise and passion to every classroom. We maintain small class sizes that allow for individualized attention and meaningful relationships between teachers and children.
Schedule a Tour!
Ready to see why Columbia Academy Preschool in Thunder Hill stands out among Howard County private schools? Schedule your personal tour to explore our themed classrooms, meet our dedicated teachers, and discover how we nurture each child's natural curiosity and love of learning.
We look forward to welcoming your family to our caring Columbia Academy Thunder Hill community, where children develop the skills, confidence, and joy needed for lifelong success. Discover how our approach can make a lasting difference in your child's life. Contact us today to learn more, schedule a tour, and become part of our vibrant school community.
Schedule your tour or call us at (410) 992-0484.