Building a Brighter Future: Walmart Opens Childcare Center on New Home Office Campus Through Support From the Walton Family

On a chilly March morning in 2021, Tyler Thomason sat outside a local childcare facility in Rogers, Arkansas. It was 5 a.m., and Tyler was waiting for the doors to open for the 7 a.m. in-person registration. After six months of waiting, two spots opened in the infant class, and Tyler wanted to make sure his daughter was the next child in line.

Tyler and his wife Rebecca spent the last year researching local childcare options and had a hard time finding something that provided top notch care that was also closer to their office in Bentonville. They needed something affordable, with great educational programming, that didn't extend their commute. The Thomason's struggle isn't unique. In fact, when asked what associates want most at the new Walmart Home Office campus, an affordable, on-site childcare center was near the top of the list.

With Little Squiggles Children's Enrichment Center opening its doors on May 6, we're bringing associates' vision for campus childcare to life. Generously supported by the Walton family, this 73,000-square-foot facility will provide a safe and enriching environment for infants through pre-K. With the capacity to accommodate more than 500 children, Little Squiggles will be the largest childcare offering in the Northwest Arkansas region.

It's poised to increase the Northwest Arkansas market capacity by a remarkable 15%.

Bright Horizons, the leading name in corporate childcare, will operate Little Squiggles Children's Enrichment Center. Bright Horizons is known for their top-rated childcare services, and they offer resources to help families nurture their kids' growth, stay involved in their education and juggle work and life responsibilities.

So, what can parents and caregivers expect from Little Squiggles?

• Bright, open classrooms boasting full-length windows and beautiful, natural views
• A holistic curriculum focused on discovery-driven learning and purposeful play
• A nurturing environment with a low child to teacher ratio
• Cost-competitive rates
• STEM and Movement Matters programs designed to spark imaginative, open-ended exploration
• Nutritious meals and snacks
• Immersive outdoor spaces including dedicated playgrounds and sensory gardens
• An inviting outdoor Parent Plaza

When Rebecca and Tyler learned on-campus childcare would be offered at the New Home Office, the parents of two daughters under the age of four said, "We couldn't contain our joy."

"As a mom, having onsite childcare at Little Squiggles is a game-changer," said Rebecca. "Knowing that my kids have appropriate classrooms, caring teachers, nutritious meals and a warm community setting is a relief. They'll explore, connect with nature and stay active. And the best part? No more long commutes or pick-up struggles."