Skip to main content

For more than 50 years, Kaplan Early Learning Company has been a champion of play. From our research-based curricula to enriching classroom environments and innovative technology solutions, Kaplan's products and services inspire a lifelong love of learning in children and educators, encourage the eager, and build inseparable bonds that last a lifetime. Together, we can transform lives through play.

A Rich History of Play

Old photograph of downtown Winston-Salem, NC, showing the Tiny Town building in the foreground highlighted in color

In 1951, Leon and Renee Kaplan opened their first toy store in downtown Greensboro, NC. They eventually moved their store, Tiny Town, to Winston-Salem, NC, where they continued to provide toys and unique gifts that help children learn through play. Leon founded Kaplan School Supply in 1968, later becoming Kaplan Early Learning Company. His vision was to create a company that provides developmentally appropriate resources to foster cognitive, social, emotional, and physical growth in all children.

Recent photo of the Kaplan corporate headquarters with the sign in the foreground

Today, Kaplan Early Learning Company continues to embody Leon's vision by providing quality early childhood resources to school systems, childcare centers, and federally supported programs. The company's corporate headquarters, located in Lewisville, NC, houses office space, a warehouse, a state-of-the-art distribution center, and the Kaplan Outlet Store. Thanks to the dedication, loyalty, and hard work of Kaplan employees, the company has tripled in size since 1990 and continues to be a leading international provider of products that enhance children's learning.

Hal Kaplan

When I look at Kaplan today, I think of how proud my dad would be that we're still carrying out the same vision he had for this company as when he started it over 50 years ago. The passion he had for early education goes into all we do and knowing you made a difference in the lives of children and families is a good feeling at the end of the day.

Hal KaplanExecutive Chairman
Matthew Marceron

At Kaplan, we come to work every day knowing that we're making an impact on children, families, caregivers, and educators here at home and around the world. From our warehouse employees and customer support, to our sales team in the field, we are all united in our belief that every child deserves the opportunity to learn through play.

Matthew MarceronPresident & CEO

Our Core Values

Core Belief

When we play, we learn.

Our Mission

To champion play as a transformative learning experience.

Our Vision

Inspire a lifelong passion for learning in all of us.

Customer

We appreciate and serve educators with high-quality customer care in mind.

Accountability

We establish clear goals, measure results and continually seek enhancement.

Teamwork

We embrace diversity, encourage open communication, cultivate empowering relationships, and support a culture of collaboration.

Integrity

We are thoughtful and act with honest intent.

Initiative

We have the desire, creativity and discipline to lead change and shape the future.

Advocacy

We advocate for young children and families and we are socially and environmentally responsible.

We approach learning and play with care and commitment.

Large group of Kaplan employees dressed in halloween costumes

At Kaplan, play is serious business. From our office environments that foster open communication and collaboration, to our distribution center that packages and delivers quality materials daily, Kaplan operates within the unique structure of a family-owned business with an international impact. Our corporate culture includes a small-town feel where every voice is heard, ideas are nurtured, and teamwork is embraced.

Two delivery drivers unloading a brown Kaplan box from the back of a box truck

Meet Our Teams

Group of Kaplan employees meeting around a conference table

Kaplan Careers

Make an impact in classrooms, communities, and beyond by joining Kaplan. Visit our Careers Page for current job openings.

Kaplan Community Partners

Kaplan Corporate Partners

Join the Kaplan Community

Get email updates featuring new product releases, special savings, professional learning events, and more.