behavioral and academic support
for little ones, ages 3–8
Where play builds
confidence, and
learning feels like home.
Little Bridges is a warm, intentional space for children ages 3–8 — offering behavioral play groups and academic support that meet kids exactly where they are.
What we offer
Two bridges. One healthier classroom experience.
Behavioral Play Groups
Small, intentional play groups that build self-regulation, communication, and confidence. Children learn best through play and guided peer relationships.
Impulse control & turn-taking
Big feelings & resilience
Friendship & communication
Little Bridges exists to bridge the behavioral and academic gaps for children who need a little extra support outside of the classroom.
Academic Support Groups
Cozy, focused groups that bridge the gap between home and the classroom. Phonics, early math, and the executive-function skills that hold it all together.
Pre-reading & phonics
Early math foundations
Focus, planning, follow-through
First Timers · Behavioral Support
Three places to start.
Each group meets weekly for four sessions. We'll help you pick the one that fits your child best.
Every child arrives at their classroom with a different set of needs. Little Bridges meets little ones where they are — building the social, emotional, and academic muscles they'll carry into school and beyond.
Aug / Sep 2026
Patient Pals
For children working on impulsive behaviors, taking turns, and sitting still. Four 90-minute weekly sessions — open to anyone new to Little Bridges.
$270
Aug / Sep 2026
Confidence Crew
For children building communication skills and resilience. Four 90-minute weekly sessions — open to anyone new to Little Bridges.
$270
Aug / Sep 2026
Stable Soldiers
For children navigating big life changes. Four 90-minute weekly sessions — open to anyone new to Little Bridges.
$270
Meet your guides
Two friends, one mission —
softer landings.
Lauren and Dedra built Little Bridges side by side. Their groups are small on purpose — each child seen, each parent heard, and progress measured the way it should be: in confidence, curiosity, and the quiet wins that add up over time.
Co-founder
Lauren Peeples Gaines
Lauren Gaines graduated from Auburn University with a degree in Marketing before earning her master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. She has experience in career counseling, seven years of elementary school counseling, and two years teaching 3-year-olds at Covenant Day School. Lauren lives in Homewood and has two daughters.
Co-founder
Dedra
Dedra holds a Bachelors Degree in Early Childhood Education and a Masters is in Elementary Education. She taught school at Vestavia East for 25 years helping students learn to read, learn social skills and accomplish math milestones. Dedra lives in Vestavia Hills and has three sons.
Get in touch
Tell us about your little one.
Send a quick note and we'll be in touch within two business days. Not sure where to start? That's exactly what this is for.
lauren@littlebridgeskids.com
dedra@littlebridgeskids.com
2081 Columbiana Road
Vestavia, AL 35209
We’re social! Follow us @littlebridgeskids
Copyright © 2026 Little Bridges Kids LLC | Website Design by Sela Vie Creative