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About Us

 

Welcome to Bright Hands Academy!

Bright Hands Academy is a licensed family home child care program in Annandale, Virginia, serving infants, toddlers, and preschoolers in a safe, nurturing, and engaging environment.

We believe children learn best through play, exploration, and meaningful relationships. Every day is filled with hands-on activities that encourage curiosity, creativity, confidence, and independence.

What makes Bright Hands Academy unique is our inclusive approach to communication. We proudly incorporate American Sign Language (ASL), visual supports, and spoken language, helping every child feel seen, heard, and valued.

As a small family child care program, we provide individualized attention while building strong partnerships with families. Our goal is to create a warm environment where children feel safe, loved, and excited to learn each day.

Child enjoying outdoor play at Bright Hands Academy in Annandale, Virginia

Our Mission

Our mission is to provide a safe, loving, and inclusive environment where every child can learn, grow, and thrive. Through play-based learning, meaningful relationships, and open communication, we inspire confidence, curiosity, kindness, and a lifelong love of learning.

In our Program

Play-Based Learning

American Sign Language (ASL)

Brightwheel Family Communication

Healthy CACFP Meals

English • ASL • Spanish

Our Philosophy

At Bright Hands Academy, we believe children learn best through hands-on experiences, creativity, and exploration. Our play-based curriculum encourages children to discover new interests while building important social, emotional, physical, and cognitive skills.

We proudly incorporate American Sign Language (ASL), visual communication, and individualized learning into our daily routines, creating an inclusive environment where every child feels respected, supported, and valued. Children are naturally exposed to English, American Sign Language (ASL), and Spanish through daily routines, conversations, songs, and play.

Child expressing creativity through an art activity at Bright Hands Academy

Why Families Choose Bright Hands Academy

Families choose Bright Hands Academy because we provide more than just child care—we provide a place where children feel at home.

Our program offers:

• Licensed Virginia Family Day Home

• Small group care with individualized attention

• Play-based learning experiences

• American Sign Language (ASL)

• English & Spanish Language Exposure

• Healthy CACFP meals and snacks

• Daily communication through Brightwheel

• Strong partnerships with families

• A safe, nurturing, and inclusive environment

Children participating in a hands-on learning activity together at Bright Hands Academy

Meet Our Team

Brandy Montoya

​Owner & Licensed Home-Based Child Care Provider

Hi! I'm Brandy, the owner of Bright Hands Academy. I am passionate about creating a safe, nurturing, and inclusive environment where every child feels loved, supported, and encouraged to grow.

As a Deaf provider, I proudly incorporate American Sign Language (ASL) and visual communication into our daily routines. My goal is to help every child feel seen, heard, and valued while building meaningful relationships with both children and families.

I believe every child deserves a place where they can learn through play, develop confidence, and enjoy childhood in a warm, welcoming environment.

Brandy Montoya

Brenda Gutierrez Araujo

Assistant Provider & Approved Substitute

Brenda is an important part of the Bright Hands Academy family. She helps create a caring, engaging, and supportive environment where children feel safe and encouraged to learn each day.

Working together, we provide personalized care, positive guidance, and meaningful learning experiences that help every child grow with confidence.

Brenda Gutierrez

We'd Love to Meet Your Family

We would love the opportunity to meet your family!

The best way to experience Bright Hands Academy is by scheduling a private tour. During your visit, you'll have the chance to explore our learning environment, ask questions, and learn more about our program.

We look forward to welcoming you and helping your child begin an exciting journey of learning, play, and growth.

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