Evanston Daycare & Preschool

Little Green Tree House in Evanston is our first suburban location. We are located on beautiful Central Street just west of Northwestern University’s campus and situated amongst the thriving shops and boutiques of this village-like area. This location is over 10,000 square feet and has wonderful natural light in each classroom, a large indoor play space as well as an attached outdoor playground.

Meet Our Directors

Emily Woodman, Director

Hi, my name is Emily! I have been a part of the learning community for 9 years. I graduated from Western Illinois University in 2017 with a bachelor’s degree in Recreation, Park, and Tourism Administration with an emphasis on therapeutic recreation. I soon learned that I wanted to work directly with children, so I went on to become teacher qualified and then eventually director qualified. I have worked with children of all ages in many settings from summer camp to traditional classroom. I started at LGTH Evanston as a teacher in the Hazel classroom and then came back from my maternity leave to join our Administration team as Center Director. When I am not working, I enjoy attending sporting events with my husband, taking walks with our dog Rosko, and spending time with family and friends. I am grateful for the opportunity to work with you and your family! 

Ryan Allen, Senior Managing Director

My name is Ryan. I received a Child Development degree from Ellis University in 2009. I went back to school the summer of 2015 to achieve my Director Credentials from Harold Washington. I began my career in daycare back in 2005 and have experience working with every age group. I moved into management in 2015 and opened, directed, and managed 7 locations with my previous company. As a Senior Managing Director, I believe that communication with staff is key in creating a positive and effective workplace. I consider myself to be an open, honest, and fair leader. I also believe that a strong, personal, and open relationship with parents is vital for the success of your child, the staff, and the center. Outside of work, I enjoy traveling as far and often as possible. My friends and I take full advantage of Chicago summers, enjoying concerts, street fests, and my favorite restaurant, The Dock at Montrose.

Betsy Taylor, Enrollment Administrator

Hello! My name is Betsy Taylor. I have a Bachelor’s Degree from Stanford University in Palo Alto, California. During my sophomore year at Stanford, I studied abroad at Oxford University with the Stanford-in-Oxford program and fell in love with the UK! After graduating, I lived in London for many years. The last place I lived in London was in Borough on the South Bank which was a stones-throw from Borough Market, the National Theatre and the Tate Modern! I have been with Little Green Tree House for almost 11 years, and it has been my absolute pleasure to help so many families join LGTH over the last decade! I have enjoyed getting to know each and every one of our wonderful parents and children. Early Childhood Education is my passion, and our talented teachers are a daily inspiration. Hearing “Miss Betsy” as I walk down the hallway will never cease to bring me sunshine on the rainiest of days! I can’t wait to welcome you and your child to the Little Green Tree House family! Come grow and learn with us!

Sarah Spence, Assistant Director

My name is Sarah Spence, I am the Assistant Director at Little Green Tree House Evanston. My preschool journey began 23 years ago as an Assistant Teacher in Los Gatos, California. I quickly found my passion for Early Childhood Education and climbed the ladder becoming Lead teacher and Head Coordinator of Curriculum. Eventually my move to the Chicagoland area brought me here to LGTH. I began as a part-time employee during the pandemic and from there I found myself quickly back to my old role of Lead Teacher. Getting to know and help our new families became a natural next step and I found a quick love for helping in admissions and enrollment. I am married to my husband, Justin, and have three children – two have graduated from High School while our third is enjoying his Elementary School career. Adding a grandchild and our pet cat, we are a full house. In my spare time I love to hike and explore outside with my family!