Parents Press December 2020

Great Gifts for the Holidays Pg. 12

DECEMBER 2020

Celebrating the Holidays

During Quarantine

Joy! Preschool and Early Education Guide Finding the Right Start for Your Child Pg. 20

Pg. 16

My New Year’s Resolutions For Parenting Teens Pg. 18

PS CAMPUS

PS HOME

At Prospect Sierra, whether on campus or at home and caring people who strive to build a bette

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Parents Press | December 2020

Bay Area Green Business - NAIS Model School of the Future - Ashoka C

PS JOY

e, we help your children become successful students er world. At the heart of everything we do is joy.

sierra.org

Changemaker School - US Department of Education Green Ribbon School

Parents’ Press

2020

BEST OF

WINNER 3 December 2020 | ParentsPress.com

www.parentspress.com

Contents Volume 40 • Number 4

12

20

PRESCHOOL AND EARLY EDUCATION GUIDE Finding the Right Start for Your Child

How to Find the Perfect Preschool

8

10

Good to Know

• Toy/Holiday Safety • Festival of Lights • The 2021 Flexcation

Mailing Address 875-A Island Dr, Ste 421, Alameda, CA 94502 4

Parents Press | December 2020

20 Your 7 Step Approach 22 Preschool Listings 31 Preschool Basics: Where to Begin

16

18

Celebrating the Holidays

My New Year’s Resolutions

During Quarantine

Publisher | Parenting Media, Inc Art Director | Debbi Murzyn Account Managers Carol Flores, Sophie Archer Advertising Sales & General Info sales@parentspress.com

For Parenting Teens

Copies of Parents’ Press are distributed to locations throughout the Bay Area. Send letters to the editor to editor@parentspress.com Calendar submissions are due six weeks prior to publication date. Send calendar information to calendar@parentspress.com

Parents’ Press is published monthly. ©2020 Parents’ Press

Cover photo by Joseph Gonzalez@miracletwentyone.org, Unsplash

December 2020 | ParentsPress.com

5

Fearless, W

COMM

Find out more a 6

Parents Press | December 2020

We Pursue

MUNITY

at shcp.edu/visit December 2020 | ParentsPress.com

7

Good to Know

Toy / Holiday Safety

By Giana Cofman

A

$977.79

T

hat’s roughly the average amount of money Americans will spend on Christmas gifts in 2020 which is down from quite a bit from 2019 when people spent $1048.

This year’s projected online holiday sales are expected to soar to over $189 billion, up an amazing 34% from last. But be warned! It will be harder to buy gifts last minute.

Several online retailers are using an earlier cutoff date, around December 17th, to guarantee Christmas arrival. This change occurred because of the incredible amount of shipping delays last year along with additional limitations due to Covid-19. The other big change this year is that more people are shopping early. There were a record number of people who were done with their holiday shopping by the beginning of November. With Amazon’s delayed Prime Day occurring in October prompting other retailers to offer competitive sales, Black Friday came early for many retailers.

8

Parents Press | December 2020

s we transition from fall festivities to holiday celebrations, one thing that should not change is choosing safe toys for children to play with during the year. In 2018, about 226,100 people visited the emergency room due to toy-related injuries with about 73% of the patients being children under the age of 15. Being cautions when buying toys will help your family have a safe and happy holiday season!

Keep these tips in mind as you check items off their wish list.

Selecting age-appropriate toys.

Age-specific toys can offer guidelines on the safety of the toy and the ability of the child to play with the toy. For young children, it is important to look out for choking hazards.

Government regulations specify that children under 3 should not be exposed to parts that are less than 1.25 inches in diameter and 2.25 inches long. If the gift is for an older child, such as bicycles, skateboards, or scooters, don’t forget a helmet with this purchase.

Carefully read the label for art materials. If the present includes crayons or paint sets, make sure the packaging is marked with the designation “ASTM D-4236” which signifies that it has been reviewed by a toxicologist.

Store toys in a safe box when they’re not being played with. Toy boxes can be dangerous for children when they’re searching for toys. Look for ones with no top or that have lightweight, removable lids. If the box has a hinged lid, be sure that it has lid support that holds the lid open at any angle. Children may get trapped inside toy boxes, so consider getting one that has ventilation holes or a gap between the lid and box.

Test the toy’s volume. Noise-inducing hearing loss results from exposure to loud noise. Purchasing noise-canceling headphones or earbuds will reduce the likelihood of the child turning up the volume to cancel out external noise. Check the Sight & Hearing Association’s Noisy Toys study to see if any of the products you are hoping to get are listed. Putting tape over the speaker or removing the batteries instantly makes the toy a safer product to play with as well.

Sign up for recall lists. Toys that are recalled should be removed right away. Sites like www.recalls.gov, Safe Kids Worldwide, and the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) frequently update which toys have been recalled.

Consider toys that will build development skills. When choosing toys for babies and toddlers, consider ones that will build their developmental skills as well as keep their attention. Toys that allow the child to be hands-on and actively participate, like shape sorters, stacking blocks, and baby-safe puzzles, are a great way to develop motor, cognitive, and perceptual skills.

The holidays are the perfect time to connect with friends and family. Everyone can have fun watching movies and drinking hot cocoa without worrying about children’s safety with their new toys. Remember these tricks as you move into the new season and have a happy holiday!

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Good to Know Festival of Lights

T

his year the first night of Hanukkah falls on December 10, ending on December 30, at sunset. The holiday always begins on the 25th day of the Hebrew month of Kislev, but never falls on the same day each year on the Gregorian calendar. Hanukkah, the Hebrew word for “dedication,” is also known as the Festival of Lights or Feast of the Maccabees.

The 2021 Flexcation

I

n 2021, pandemic travel habits will stick around: Road trips with an affinity for the great outdoors, and taking Flexcations show no signs of slowing down. Once travel returns, families are looking to go all out on their future vacations. Countless families canceled vacations in 2020, so they are willing to pull out all the stops when travel returns to normal. Outdoor travel locations will continue to usurp urban trips for the foreseeable future.

Did you do a Flexcation in 2020?

A Flexcation is a new type of travel born out of the need for families, after having to cancel pre-Covid-19 vacation plans, to get a change of scenery, different from the four walls of their home, where parents work and school age children learn, together, while traveling safely, On Flexcations, parents continue to work and kids continue their studies but at the end of the day, they turn off the laptop and explore

10

Parents Press | December 2020

the outdoors together as a family.

Flexcations are a longer trip than a weekend getaway and allow for families to travel more during the less crowded shoulder seasons.

Vrbo, a company which unites travelers with vacation rental properties rental by owners on the Vrbo website, just released the results of an extensive survey to families with children under 18 as to what they plan for vacations in the new year.

Already, 8 out of 10 families are planning their Spring and Summer vacations with 61% seeking vacation homes at or near outdoor locations within driving distance from home. Driving distance changes depending on where you live. People in the Bay Area consider driving distance to be up to 5 hours’ drive or 300 mile according to Karen Fuller, senior director of global market research at Vrbo.

Also, families are seeking vacation homes that are a destination unto themselves, just in case businesses get locked down again. a

By the Numbers

59%

of families say they are more likely to drive instead of fly on their next trip.

61%

of U.S. families said they are more likely to visit an outdoorsy destination than an urban one.

52%

of travelers who took a Flexcation this year found the experience refreshing and 67% said they would do it again.

65%

of travelers plan on traveling more than they did pre-COVID and 33% are willing to spend more than they traditionally would.

54%

say they are more likely to take their bucket list trip.

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11

Gift Guide

By Elena Epstein, Director of the National Parenting Product Awards

The Monkey Mind Meditation Deck Help children become more present, confident, and capable of handling difficult emotions. This vibrant deck offers 30 simple practices to explore the transformative power of mindfulness in a playful way. $17.95, ages 4+, https://www.shambhala.com/the-monkeymind-meditation-deck. html

Songs Across the Pond This transatlantic alliance, pairing of the acclaimed American kids musician and standout UK family music maker, results in a thoroughly triumphant partnership – a hooky, sunny 60s-flavored rock ‘n’ roll collection that the whole family will enjoy. $13.99, http://www.bradyrymer.com/songsacrossthepond

Under-The-Sea Mermaid Palace Splash into an undersea adventure with exciting play spaces built in, including a royal throne, slides, clamshell bed, seashell vanity, working gate and swing. $49.99, ages 3 – 8, https://www.lakeshorelearning.com/

Robo Wunderkind Explorer Prime Kit Robotics kits that empower children as young as 5 to learn to code through the joy of play. Young inventors can build their own robots and gadgets, customize them with LEGO™, and program them through the intuitive apps. $249, ages 5-14, http://robowunderkind.com/

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Parents Press | December 2020

For more product reviews visit nappaawards.com

Gift Guide All the Ladies A new collection of songs focused on gender equality, female empowerment & breaking glass ceilings. Written

by Joanie Leeds and produced, recorded and performed entirely by women. $10, ages 5-8, http://www.joanieleeds. com

Ripclear Kid’s Shield

Pinkfong Baby Shark Dancing DJ Boogie to the beat with Dance Detection Technology. When you move and groove, the Baby Shark will dance with you! Plays 7 fun songs and popular remixes, plus three interactive games. $39.99, ages 2+, https:// babyshark.wowwee.com

Makers of the advanced protective film for outdoor sports eyewear have launched a new children’s face shield designed to help protect kids from the COVID-19 virus at school, play and home. Available in pink bunny and panda and lined with 3/4” foam around the forehead to reduce pressure points, and held in place with a soft elastic headband. Has received medical device certification from the FDA. $19.99/5 pack, ages 4-9, https://ripclear.com/childrens-face-shield

Band Together Duck is a solo act, but in this delightful book he learns all about the joys of friendship. $14.99, ages 4-8, https://www.apa. org/pubs/magination/ band-together

Jeepers Peepers ® The “Ask and Answer” Question Game Party Pack Am I a monkey? A hamburger? An astronaut?

A car? That’s the question on everyone’s mind – or glasses. A hilarious family game with 208 cards, 12 pairs of glasses, spinner, bingo chips and game ideas. $59.85, ages 6+, https://www.superduperinc.com/products/ view.aspx?pid=JP10&s=jeepers-peepersparty-pack

For more product reviews visit nappaawards.com

December 2020 | ParentsPress.com

13

Gifts for Active Kids

BAKERS

Gift Guide

Tools to create your favorite holiday treats.

Handheld Vitamix® Immersion Blender

Perfect for the smoothie lover! This powerful immersion blender takes the mess out of making refreshing smoothies, savory soups or zesty salsa’s at record speed. Cleanup is a breeze with the dishwasher-safe, detachable wand. $149.99, Available at Amazon.

Slackers’ NinjaLine

GoodCook® Sweet Creations Textured Bakeware

Perfect for kids who want to be superheroes. At some point in their childhood, nearly every kid wants to be a ninja. With a backyard ninja obstacle course, your child can train just like the heroes they see on TV. These versatile obstacle courses help build strength and coordination, making them a great development tool. $99.99, Available at Amazon.

Perfect for the baker. These solid, scratch resistant nonstick coating bakeware options are textured in a diamond pattern for proper air-flow with bakery-style sidewalls to create straighter edges for professional-looking baked goods. All bakeware items have the size clearly marked of each item!

No guessing on if you have the right size cake pan. $8.99 & up, Available at Amazon.

Ollyball Who said you can’t play ball in the house? This winner of the 2019 “Toy of the Year” allows kids and adults to hit the re-inflatable ball hard without breaking windows, marking up walls or leaving a bruise. With several different color options, including Girl Power, Glow-in-the-dark and Color-in options, your kids won’t be board on rainy days! $14.99 & up, Available at Ollyball.com.

4Fun Change Up 6 In 1 Portable Cornhole Plus Indoor & Outdoor Game System 6 Games, Cornhole, shuffleboard, poker pass, tic tac toe, skee bag and football frenzy, are all packed into 1 portable console on wheels. Completely portable and easy to take camping, the beach, at your favorite tailgate or in your family’s backyard.

Everything stores in the lightweight unit for easy transport. $169.99, Available at Amazon.

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Parents Press | December 2020

GoodCook® Smart Ice Cream Scoop Scoop ice cream like a pro with this strong, built to last, aluminum, patented design to give you a perfect round scoop every time. The thin cast edges help this scoop slide through any ice cream, perfect for anyone with arthritis or small kids. a

SCHOOLS

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By Sarah Lyons

A

s flu season approaches and the risk for coronavirus continues to rise in most states, families are wondering how to celebrate the holidays this season. According to the CDC “Christmas is a time when many families travel long distances to celebrate together. Staying home is the best way to protect yourself and others.” Making Christmas feel special will require creativity and even more advanced planning this year. Here are some ideas to spark inspiration to help you plan a memorable lower risk celebration.

Take it outside If weather allows, host your family Christmas outdoors.

With social distancing, outdoor events are safer than social interactions indoors. Forgo the typical holiday meal and consider roasting hot dogs and marshmallows on a fire pit and enjoy the fresh air.

Host a cooking challenge If you decide to stay home and would like an alternative to the big traditional Christmas dinner, try and host a cooking challenge at home. Have each family member prepare a meal (or part of a meal) and vote on 16

Parents Press | December 2020

a winner. Take the photos to social media to see who gets the most votes.

Downsize One of the best parts of the holidays is spending time with extended family. This year, try downsizing and limit the amount of people you have over for dinner. For the lowest risk, do not have anyone outside of your household. If you do decide to host others, keep it to a few people and have them quarantine prior to attending.

Ask others to stay home if they have any flu-like symptoms, fever, or are not feeling well. If possible, be outside.

Travel safely (if at all) The holidays have historically been the biggest travel weeks of the year. This year, avoid travel as much as possible. If you must, use best known practices to keep your family safe. Consider driving instead of flying.

Stay in a hotel rather than at a family member’s home. Wear a mask when visiting with family. Wash hands frequently and quarantine before returning to work or school.

Get creative with dinner

It’s hard to miss out on the yearly tradition of gathering with

family over dinner. Consider delivering a no contact meal to friends or family who are alone on the holidays and then hosting a virtual dinner so you can socialize while you eat.

Shop differently The holidays are the biggest shopping weeks of the year, they will look very different this year. Instead of heading out to the stores for your holiday shopping, order online and ask for no contact pickup.

When shopping for your holiday meal groceries, try to do so at non-peak hours or shop online for grocery delivery or pickup.

As you plan your holiday celebrations please take into consideration the guidelines set by the CDC and your local government. Wear a mask, wash your hands, stay home if you are sick, and be extra careful if you are in the high-risk category. The safest option is to stay home, but if you would like to gather with the lowest risk possible, consider these ideas or get creative and come up with your own way to celebrate this year. a Sarah Lyons is a mother of six, including two-year-old triplet and is a frequent contributor to our magazine .

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By Cheryl Maguire

I’m not a big fan of New Year’s Resolutions, but I thought

I would embrace change this year. As I reflect back on last year my first thought is, “I survived being a mom to twin teens!” Their fourteenth birthday is in February so this time of year also marks my accomplishment, and yes I view that as an accomplishment.

I

f I’m honest with myself, I can also admit there is definitely room for some improvement.

Since I know that I can only control my behavior, I plan to

18

Parents Press | December 2020

focus on what I can do differently as a parent. So here’s my list in no particular order (even though I numbered it—I just like numbered lists).

1

I will encourage my twin teens to be more independent. During their

morning routine, I will remain silent without saying, “Hurry up or you will miss the bus!” I will also give them a list of things they are responsible for such as putting away their laundry, cleaning the dishes and packing their lunches.

2

I will allow them to fail. This is a

tough one for me since I often feel this may somehow be a reflection on me being a bad parent. I also struggle with being a perfectionist. But I realize sometimes “failing” is the only way you learn and grow as a person. So when they ask me to bring to school their forgotten homework or other items my answer will be a hard “no.”

3

I will continue to attempt to communicate with them. This year

whenever I tried to ask my teens questions I heard a lot of one word generic responses. When I ask, “How was school today?” often their response is a one word “good” without any other details. After hearing “good” or “nothing” a hundred times, I was tempted to give up trying. But I have been told, by more than one person, I’m tenacious so I tried other methods. I found by asking unusual questions or instead of asking questions I offered information about myself that sometimes I was able to engage in what some may consider a conversation. So I’m going to keep trying because when it works, it’s worth the effort.

4

I’m going to nag less and observe more. I never enjoy nagging, and it

rarely yields the results I’m want. After reading articles and interviewing experts, I learned that making observational comments or questions is much more effective. My favorite one which even sometimes elicits a chuckle is, “Are you working hard or hardly working?”

5

I’m going to let them know when they are doing a good job. It’s easy to notice

all the things a teen is doing wrong such as leaving their towel on the floor, staying up too late at night, or eating junk food.

It’s harder to point out what they are doing right such as how they did their homework, helped their sibling, or cleaned their room. I plan to notice at least once a day what they are doing right and let them know how proud I am of them. Because they are doing a lot of things right and I am really proud of them.

One of the reasons I don’t like New Year’s Resolutions is because often by March people are back to their old ways, their New Year’s Resolutions quickly forgotten.

That is why I’m writing it down, so I can reflect on this list and remind myself these goals will help us have a better relationship and hopefully help my teens grow up to be successful adults. And I think that is worth trying something new to achieve it. a Cheryl Maguire holds a Master of Counseling Psychology degree.

She is married and is the mother of twins and a daughter. Her writing has been published in The New York Times, Parents Magazine, AARP, Healthline, Your Teen Magazine, and many other publications. She is a professional member of ASJA. You can find her at Twitter @CherylMaguire05

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19

Featured

PRESCHOOLS AND EARLY EDUCATION GUIDE Finding the Right Start for Your Child

PARENTS’ PRESS TAKES THE GUESSWORK OUT OF FINDING THE RIGHT PRESCHOOL FOR YOUR CHILD, FROM START TO FINISH. Following are excerpts from the 2020/21 Annual Guide to East Bay Preschools.

Covering “7 Steps to Finding the Perfect Preschool” and “What to Look for at the Site Visit”. The complete 2020/21 East Bay Preschool Guide leads parents along the preschool selection path beginning with how to determine if you child is ready for preschool, what options and different teaching philosophies are available, questions to ask a preschool and more. There are preschool profiles and a comprehensive list of regional preschools. Your road to the ideal early education program just got easier! Get your copy today of the free resource at ParentsPress.com/our-magazines.html

1

How to Find the Perfect Preschool Your 7 Step Approach

START EARLY. It takes time to research different styles of preschools and become familiar with common terms used in preschools. Many parents start this process a year ahead of time, some parents even start while pregnant! Children usually attend preschool for two to three years between the ages of 2.5 and 5 years.

2

DETERMINE WHAT CRITERIA IS MOST IMPORTANT FOR YOUR CHILD AND FAMILY. Is it location, faith, type of program offered, language immersion, special-needs options, year round program, extended hours, cost? What are the most important factors and options? Rate these so you have a clear picture of where and what programs to focus on and what is the best fit for your child.

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Parents Press | December 2020

3

UTILIZE LOCAL PARENTING RESOURCES. Local parenting magazines, like Parents’ Press, offer lots of preschool information and open house announcements. These will help you to become familiar with what preschools are available in your area and the program options being offered to help with your selection process.

Visit school websites that look interesting to find out admissions information. More information can also be found at www.PreschoolsBayArea.com

4

ASK AROUND. Talk to other parents in your area to see what programs they were part of, and if they would recommend them.

Find out what they liked most and least about the school. How long did their child attend? Did they experience any teacher turnover? What was the culture like? How did they handle sick days, potty training and behavioral issues? How

involved were the parents in the school? Are the parents and children still in contact with others from the preschool?

5

TOUR YOUR TOP CHOICES. Arrange to take a tour or go to an open house, if available, to learn about the school philosophy and the admissions process. Most schools prefer for you to pre-register for these.

Have your questions ready and observe. Look for signs that the preschool is well run. Also, this is a time that the preschool uses to determine which families will be a good fit for their program.

6

CONTACT THE PRESCHOOL. Before you apply, find out the preschool’s admissions schedule and how many openings they will have and how many spots will be reserved for siblings of families already enrolled. If you are concerned that your top choice or choices have way more applicants than spots it would be a wise idea to apply to more than one preschool even though there may be an application fee.

7

APPLY TO YOUR TOP CHOICE. You have done your research, established your criteria and taken the tour — now it is time to apply to your top choice. Some preschools have ongoing enrollment but most follow the school year format. Acceptance letters go out in the spring for the following fall. Before you apply, find out the preschool’s admissions schedule and how many openings they will have and how many spots will be reserved for siblings of families already enrolled. Also, find out from the preschool when you can expect to hear from them, one way or another. It is okay to be persistent and let them know you and your family are interested, but don’t be a pest.

If your child is waitlisted get specifics from the preschool. What number on the wait list is your child and does the preschool have a commitment from all returning families? If the school is accepting a total of 15 new children and you are way down on the wait list, it is time to consider another option. If you are concerned that your top choice or choices have way more applicants than spots it would be a wise idea to apply to more than one preschool even though there may be an application fee. a

December 2020 | ParentsPress.com

21

Preschool Address City • Phone Website

Ages Served # of Children at Facility Religious Affil (if any) Hours of Care

Monthly Tuition Accredited Facility?

Diapers Accepted?

Education Based?

Home or Center Meals Provided?

Special Needs?

Transportation?

PK - 1st grade Up to 70 children

$595 -$1,850 Accredited Diapers Accepted Education Based

Center

$595 -$1,850 Accredited Diapers Accepted Education Based

Center

Center

7:00 am - 6:00 pm

$595 -$1,850 Accredited Diapers Accepted Education Based

Tiny Treasures Preschool

2 - 5 yrs

Varies

Center

1803 N Loop Rd Alameda • 510-995-5383 www.ttpreschoolalameda.org

6:30 am - 6:00 pm

Diapers Accepted Education Based

Alameda The Child Unique Montessori School - Encinal Campus 2226 Encinal Ave. Alameda • 510-521-9227 http://www.thechildunique.org

7:00 am - 6:00 pm

The Child Unique Montessori School - Pacific Campus 2212 Pacific Ave. Alameda • 510-521-9227 http://www.thechildunique.org

18 mos - 3 yrs Up to 70 children 7:00 am - 6:00 pm

The Child Unique Montessori School - Taylor Campus 1400 Sixth St. Alameda • 510-521-0595 http://www.thechildunique.org

PK - 1st grade Up to 70 children

Special Needs Accepted

Special Needs Accepted

Special Needs Accepted

Albany Albany Preschool 850 Masonic Ave Albany • 510-600-3416 http://albanypreschool.org/

The Creative Play Center 1151 Portland Ave. Albany • 510-524-9399 www.CreativePlayCenterAlbany.com

2.75 yr - 5 Up to 24 children 9:00 am - 12:30 pm and 1:00 pm - 4:30 pm

$328 - $440

Center

3 yr - 5 Up to 14 children

PT and FT options

Home

Diapers Accepted Education Based

Transportation Available

8:00 am - 6:00 pm

CHATHAM SCHOOL

FUN CHILD-CENTERED PRESCHOOL

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013418177 6 mo.Lic# - Kindergarten (35mo.

1 0 )- Kindergarten 531-1302 fax: (510) 531-1301

2 yrs. - Kindergarten extended care 2 yrs. - Kindergarten

Lic#013418176

(510) 531-1302

JUST WHEN YOU THOUGHT THINGS WERE GETTING BAD, CHILDREN CAME TO THE RESCUE.

Lic#01341436

(510) 531-1534

(510) 531-1534

• We do Potty Training • Snacks/Hot Lunch Part Time/Full Time am-6& pmMilk We do Potty Training • 27:30 Snacks Part Time / Full Time 7:30am - 6pm www.chathampreschool.com

www.chathampreschool.com

The Child Unique Montessori School and Montessori Elementary Intermediate School of Alameda

Where changemakers are created to effect change.

2226 Encinal Ave., Alameda 510.521.0595 office@thechildunique.org www.thechildunique.org 22

Parents Press | December 2020

Preschool Address City • Phone Website

Ages Served # of Children at Facility Religious Affil (if any) Hours of Care

Monthly Tuition Accredited Facility?

Diapers Accepted?

Education Based?

Home or Center Meals Provided?

Special Needs?

Transportation?

2 yr - 5 Up to 33 children Christian 6:30 am - 6:00 pm

$437 - $800 Accredited Diapers Accepted Education Based

Center

2 - 5 years old, AfterSchool 115 6:30 am - 6:30 pm

$400 - $1,256 Diapers Accepted Education Based

Center Meals Provided Transportation available (for school-age)

2 yr - 6 Up to 120 children 8:00am - 6:00pm Ext care avail

Call for Rates Accredited Diapers Accepted Education Based

Center

2.3 yr - 5 Up to 12 children 8:30 am - 1:30 pm Ext care avail

$980 - $1,340

Home Based Meals Provided

2 yr - 5 Up to 53 children

$680 - $1,700

Antioch Hilltop Christian Preschool 2200 Country Hills Drive Antioch • 925-779-9297 www.hilltopcs.org

The Child Day Schools 112 E. Tregallas Road Antioch • 925-754-0144 www.tcdschools.com

Berkeley Ecole Bilingue de Berkeley (EB) 1009 Heinz Avenue Berkeley • 510-549-3867 www.eb.org

Frog Hollow Nursery School 1635 Jaynes Street Berkeley • 510-525-2566

Gay Austin School 1611 Hopkins St Berkeley • 510-526-2815 GayAustinSchool.com

8:30 am - 5:30 pm

Little Elephant Too!

3 - 6 yrs 21-22 children

2008 McGee Ave Berkeley • 510-679-5056 www.littleelephant.net/

Diapers Accepted Education Based Center

Diapers Accepted Education Based Varies

Center Snacks Provided

Education Based 8:00 am - 6:00 pm

WHEN STUDENTS

THE EMBRACE A CHALLENGE EXTRAORDINARY HAPPENS We are excited to welcome students back for the upcoming school year with safety in mind and plans for a flexible learning environment. To help your family get to know Stratford School, we invite you to join us for a Virtual Tour providing an overview of our robust programs, vibrant school community, and xtraordinary curriculum.

JOIN US FOR A Virtual TOUR TODAY! StratfordSchools.com/tours

Now Enrolling Preschool THROUGH

Middle School*

Locations throughout the Bay Area

Educating Global Citizens

*Grades offered vary by location. Preschool State License Numbers: 073402482, 013420588, 013423042, 434404890, 434413440, 434410816, 434408056, 013420939, 414004014, 384001837, 384004006, 434407977, 434408877, 434410807, 434404336, 434406722, 198018949, 198018875, 197493889, 304371162. Copyright © 2020 Stratford Schools, Inc.

We provide a Year Round Program Infant and toddler care for ages 12-24 months Preschool for ages 2-5 years Part-day program: 8:45 a.m.-2:30 p.m.

Extended Part-day program: 8:45 a.m.-4:00 p.m.

Full-day program: 7:30 a.m.-6:00 p.m.

Please visit the website for a virtual tour!

Our Preschool and Kindergarten programs are open to all, no prior knoweldge of German is needed. Visit us!

We prioritize in-person instruction with rigorous health and safety measures.

Private campus tours are available now! Contact admissions@ebgis.org.

Register at www.ebgis.org or email us at admissions@ebgis.org

510-652-7021 Helpingyour yourchild childexcel excel Helping a warm in ainwarm and and nurturing nurturing environment environment

www.RockridgeMontessori.org Close to Rockridge Bart 5633 Manila ave – Oakland 94618

1070 41st Street Emeryville, CA 94608

(510) 679-2199 contact@ebgis.org

ebgis.org

Lic. 01213520,013417669 & 013417787

December 2020 | ParentsPress.com

23

Preschool Address City • Phone Website

Ages Served # of Children at Facility Religious Affil (if any) Hours of Care

Monthly Tuition Accredited Facility?

Diapers Accepted?

Education Based?

Home or Center Meals Provided?

Special Needs?

Transportation?

The Model School

3 months to 5.5 years Up to 40 children

$1,295 - $2,099 Accredited Diapers Accepted Education Based

Center

$1,270

Center

Diapers Accepted Education Based

Special Needs Accepted

2330 Prince St. Berkeley • 510-549-2711 TheModelSchool.org

8:00 am - 5:00 pm

Castro Valley Montessori School at Five Canyons

18 mos - 6 Up to 120 children 7:00 am - 6:00 pm

22781 Canyon Court Castro Valley • 510-581-3729 www.montessoricastrovalley.com

Concord First Lutheran Preschool

2 yr - 5 Lutheran 6:30 am - 6:00 pm

4006 Concord Blvd Concord • 925-798-5330 flpsconcord.org

Step by Step Montessori Preschool

2 yr - 6 Up to 40 children

1507 Heather Drive Concord • 925-825-4364 stepbystepschools.com

7:00 am - 6:00 pm

Center Diapers Accepted Education Based Center Accredited Diapers Accepted Education Based

Danville Fountainhead Montessori School

2 yr - 6 Up to 90 children

939 El Pintado Rd Danville • 925-820-1343 www.fms.org

7:00 am - 6:30 pm

Stratford School - Blackhawk 3201 Camino Tassajara Danville • 925-648-4900 www.stratfordschools.com

Please call for rate

Center

Diapers Accepted Education Based

2.5 yr - 5 Varies Non Denominational Half-day and full-day sessions

Varies Accredited

2 yr - 6 Up to 90 children

Please call for rate

Center

Education Based

Dublin Fountainhead Montessori School 6665 Amador Plaza Rd Dublin • 925-829-2963 www.fms.org

7:00 am - 6:30 pm

Joyful Kids Academy Bilingual Preschool

2 yr - 5 Up to 60 children

7250 Amador Valley Blvd Dublin • 925-560-8603

7:30 am - 6:30 pm

Les Petits Francophones French Dual Immersion Preschool

Center

Diapers Accepted Education Based Please call for rate Diapers Accepted Education Based

Center Meals Provided Special Needs Accepted

Offering a Year Round Academic Montessori Program Preschool Program (ages 2-5) Kindergarten Program Part-day program: 8:45 a.m.-2:30 p.m.

Full-day program: 7:00 a.m.-6:00 p.m.

• Emphasis on French Language • Affordable • Year Round • Play-based

• • • •

Nurturing environment Enrichment Programs Part-time and Full Time Extended hours available

4101 Park Blvd Oakland, CA 94602 510-214-6711 www.lespetitsfrancophones.org

24

Parents Press | December 2020

510-430-1322 admin@oakgrovelearning.com www.OakGroveLearning.com

Hwy 580 • Keller Ave exit 8115 Fontaine Street • Oakland 94605

Oak Grove Learning

Now Enrolling

Virtual Tour website!

Helping youronchild excel in a warm and nurturing environment License 013423093

Preschool Address City • Phone Website

Ages Served # of Children at Facility Religious Affil (if any) Hours of Care

Monthly Tuition Accredited Facility?

Diapers Accepted?

Education Based?

Home or Center Meals Provided?

Special Needs?

Transportation?

Casa Cerrito Preschool

3 - 5 yrs

Call for rates

Center

6927 Portola Dr. El Cerrito • 510-559-7032 www.el-cerrito.org

8:30 am - 5:30 pm

El Cerrito

El Cerrito Preschool Cooperative (ECPC)

3 yr - 5 Up to 28 children

7200 Moeser Lane El Cerrito • 510-526-1916

Center Accredited Diapers Accepted Education Based

8:00 am - 5:00 pm

Emeryville East Bay German International School Early Education 1070 41st St. Emeryville • 510-679-2199 www.ebgis.org/

2 - 5 yrs Up to 40 children Non Denominational 8 am to 2 pm (extended day until 6 pm)

$2,099 - $2,699 Accredited Diapers Accepted Education Based

Center Meals Provided

2.5 yr - 5 Varies Non Denominational Half-day and full-day sessions

Varies Accredited

Center

1.5 yr - K Up to 34 children

Please call for rate

Fremont Stratford Schools 38495 Fremont Bl. Fremont • 510-713-8900 www.stratfordschools.com

Education Based

Kensington Skytown Parent Co-operative Preschool 1 Lawson Rd. Kensington • 510-526-8481

Center

Diapers Accepted 8:00 am - 3:00 pm

Lafayette Happy Days Learning Center

2 yr - 11 Up to 84 children

3205 Stanley Blvd.

Lafayette • 925-932-8088 www.happydayslafayette.com

$430-$1,800 depending on schedule Diapers Accepted Education Based

7:00 am – 6:00 pm

Old Firehouse School

Transportation Available

12 mos - 5 Up to 80 children 8:00 am - 5:30 pm

984 Moraga Rd Lafayette • 925-284-4321

Center Meals Provided

Center Meals Provided

Diapers Accepted Education Based

Helping to make childhood a journey, not a race.

Online Spanish Inmmersion Classes

Dynamic Programs for Children with Caring, Supportive Staff • Language & Literacy • Math & Science • Problem Solving • Art & Creativity • Social Skills

Engaging curriculum uses music, art & games

18 mos. through 6th grade

Low Ratios Highly Trained Teachers

Ages: 4 years to adult

Flexible schedules via ZOOM

multi-age classroOms

Small class sizes Parents’ Press

Educational exCellence

2020

BEST OF

Experienced, dynamic teachers, native Spanish speakers

info@vivaelespanol.org www.vivaelespanol.org 925-962-9177

TOP 5

Family operated since 1976

www.t cdschools.com Preschool • Toddlers • Pre-K • Jr.-K Kindergarten • School Age ANTIOCH 925-754-0144

PLEASANTON 925-462-1866

MORAGA 925-376-5110

Lic# 073406638 073406639

Lic# 013420524 013420525

Lic# 073406850 073406849

SAN RAMON 925-820-2515 Lic# 073406846 073406845, 0734066634

LAFAYETTE 925-284-7092 Lic# 073406632 073406633

since 1978

Sign up online for a tour today! www.grandlakemontessori.com 466 Chetwood, Oakland 510 836-4313 December 2020 | ParentsPress.com

25

Preschool Address City • Phone Website

Ages Served # of Children at Facility Religious Affil (if any) Hours of Care

Monthly Tuition Accredited Facility?

Diapers Accepted?

Education Based?

Home or Center Meals Provided?

Special Needs?

Transportation?

The Child Day Schools

2-5 years old Up to 85 children 8:00 am - 5:00 pm

$700 to $1,755

Center

Viva el Español

1 yr - 13 7:30am - 6:30pm

Varies according to schedule Financial Aid Available Education Based

Center

925 Village Center, Suite 2 Lafayette • 925-962-9177 www.vivaelespanol.org

Please call for rate

Center

1049 Stuart Street Lafayette • 925-284-7092 www.tcdschools.com

Livermore Fountainhead Montessori School 949 Central Avenue Livermore • 925-820-1343 www.fms.org

Valley Montessori School 1273 N. Livermore Avenue Livermore • 925-455-8021 www.valleymontessorischool.com

1.8 yr - 5 Up to 54 children 7:00 am - 6:30 pm 18 mos - Grade 8 Up to 425 children

Diapers Accepted Education Based $980 - $1,450 Accredited Diapers Accepted

Center Meals Provided

1.5 yr - 5 Up to 175 children 8:00 am - 5:00 pm

Please call for rate Diapers Accepted Education Based

Center

12 months to 5 years 8 am to 5 pm

$700 - $1,700 Diapers Accepted Education Based

Center

infant - 5 Up to 85 children

$1,310 - $2,700 Accredited Diapers Accepted Education Based

Center Meals Provided Special Needs Accepted

Please call for rate

Center

7:30 am - 6:00 pm

Moraga Growing Tree Preschool 1695 Canyon Road Moraga • 925-376-8280

The Child Day Schools 372 Park Street Moraga • 925-376-5110 www.tcdschools.com

Oakland BlueSkies for Children 3021 Brookdale Avenue Oakland • 510-261-1076 www.blueskies4children.org

7:00 am – 6:00 pm

Chatham School - 39th Ave 4359 39th Avenue Oakland • 510-531-1534 www.chathampreschool.com

7:30 am – 6:00 pm

Diapers Accepted Education Based

Award Winning Program

Old Firehouse School www.oldfirehouseschool.com

Serving ages 1-5 Lafayette Campus 984 Moraga Road Lafayette 925-284-4321

ofslafayette@gmail.com

26

Parents Press | December 2020

*Reggio Emilia Inspired *Primary Caregiving *Extraordinary Faculty

Walnut Creek Campus 55 Eckley Lane Walnut Creek 925-934-1507 ofswalnutcreek@gmail.com

A loving place to play and learn!

• Experienced staff • Three large playgrounds • Flexible schedules • Open 7am to 6pm year-round

Happy Days Learning Center www.HappyDaysLafayette.com 3205 Stanley Blvd • Lafayette 925-932-8088

A loving place to play a

Preschool Address City • Phone Website

Ages Served # of Children at Facility Religious Affil (if any) Hours of Care

Chatham School - Redwood 4500 Redwood Rd Oakland • 510-531-1302 www.chathampreschool.com

Les Petits Francophones 4101 Park Boulevard Oakland • 510-214-6711 www.lespetitsfrancophones.org

Oak Grove Learning, Inc 8115 Fontaine St Oakland • 510-430-1322 www.oakgrovelearning.com

The Renaissance International School 3650 Dimond Ave. Oakland • 510-531-8566 www.TheRenaissanceSchool.org

Monthly Tuition Accredited Facility?

Diapers Accepted?

Education Based?

Home or Center Meals Provided?

Special Needs?

Transportation?

Please call for rate

Center

Diapers Accepted Education Based

7:30 am – 6:00 pm 2yr - 5 Up to 40 children

$892 - $2,000

Center

Diapers Accepted 7:30 am - 6:00 pm 18 months through Kindergarten Up to 62 children 7:00 am - 6:00 pm

$1,035 - $1,700

3-6 years old 76 children 8:30 am to 3 pm or 7:30 am to 6 pm

$2,510 - $2,884 FA Available Accredited

Center Meals Provided

Diapers Accepted Education Based Center

Education Based

Rockridge Montessori School 5633 Manila Av Oakland • 510-652-7021 www.rockridgemontessori.org

12 months through Kindergarten Up to 139 children 7:30 am - 6:00 pm

$1,035 - $1,700

2 yr - 6 Up to 90 children

Please call for rate

Center Meals Provided

Diapers Accepted Education Based

Orinda Fountainhead Montessori School 30 Santa Maria Way Orinda • 925-254-7110 www.fms.org

Center

Diapers Accepted Education Based

7:00 am - 6:30 pm

Enrolling Now: An Established Montessori School Ages 2.5-6 • Immediate start • Year round or school year enrollment available

Our core ideals loving care, homemade organic meals, peaceful naps, with wholesome guidance in a beautiful play-based setting, serving families with children from 0 through 5 years, 7:30 to 6:00 · 51 weeks a year

• • • • •

compassion and kindness supporting creativity building community passion for learning peace

“good childcare lasts a lifetime”

BlueSkies is the only NAEYC-accredited childcare center in Oakland.

510-261-1076 • www.bluskies4children.org

Centrally located near Cal and BART Part/full/extended day available • Limited financial aid available 2008 McGee Ave • Berkeley • 510.679.5056 • www.littleelephant.net

We provide a Year Round Program Infant and toddler care for ages 12-24 months Preschool for ages 2-5 years Part-day program: 8:45 a.m.-2:30 p.m.

Extended Part-day program: 8:45 a.m.-4:00 p.m.

Full-day program: 7:30 a.m.-6:00 p.m.

510-652-7021 admin@rockridgemontessori.org www.RockridgeMontessori.org

Helping your child excel in a warm and nurturing environment

Close to Rockridge Bart 5633 Manila ave – Oakland 94618 Lic. 01213520,013417669 & 013417787

December 2020 | ParentsPress.com

27

Preschool Address City • Phone Website

Ages Served # of Children at Facility Religious Affil (if any) Hours of Care

Monthly Tuition Accredited Facility?

Diapers Accepted?

Education Based?

Home or Center Meals Provided?

Special Needs?

Transportation?

3-6 years old 76 children 8:30 am to 3 pm or 7:30 am to 6 pm

$2,510 - $2,884 FA Available Accredited

Center

Piedmont The Renaissance International School 5201 Park Blvd.

Piedmont • 510-531-8566 www.TheRenaissanceSchool.org

Education Based

Pleasant Hill Choice in Learning 490 Golf Club Rd Pleasant Hill • 925-687-5321 cilmontessori.org

2 yr - 6 Up to 90 children

Please call for rate

7:00 am - 6:00 pm

Diapers Accepted Education Based

Fountainhead Montessori School

18 mos. - 6 years

Please call for rate

1715 Oak Park Blvd Pleasant Hill • 925-820-1243 www.fms.org

7:00 am - 6:30 pm

Diapers Accepted Education Based

2.5 yr - 5 Varies Non Denominational Half-day and full-day sessions

Varies Accredited

Two to Five years; School-Age

$500 - $1,415 Diapers Accepted Education Based

Center

Center

Pleasanton Stratford Schools 4576 Willow Road Pleasanton • 925-737-0001 www.stratfordschools.com

The Child Day Schools 883 Rose Avenue Pleasanton • 925-462-1866 www.tcdschools.com

Center

Education Based Center Meals Provided Transportation available (for school-age)

8 am to 5 pm

If you could give your child one gift to last a lifetime, what would it be?

Parents’ Press

www.nomurapreschool.com

Lic. #070209834

2020

BEST OF WINNER

A ministry of Bay Area Chinese Bible Church

- Friday 7am - 6pm A ministry of Monday Bay Area Chinese Bible Church lunch service provided

1803 North Loop Rd. Alameda, CA 94502

TTPreschoolalameda.org Facility # 013422027

• Ages 2-5 Years and Bridge K • Nurturing Academic Environment • Preparation for Kindergarten

• Two Expansive Campuses • Potty Training Available • Covid-19 Safety Protocols

Telephone # 510-995-5383 ext. 1336 Fax # 510-373-2241 1803 North Loop Rd | Alameda | Facility # 013422027 kim.smith@bacbc.org 510-995-5383 ext. 1336 | kim.smith@bacbc.org

28

Parents Press | December 2020

Now Enrolling!

1629 Carlson Blvd., Richmond Annex 94804

Admissions - 510-526-7847 ext.2

Preschool Address City • Phone Website

Ages Served # of Children at Facility Religious Affil (if any) Hours of Care

Monthly Tuition Accredited Facility?

Diapers Accepted?

Education Based?

Home or Center Meals Provided?

Special Needs?

Transportation?

Viva el Español

1 yr - 13 7:30am - 6:30pm

Varies according to schedule Financial Aid Available Education Based

Center

4455 Del Valle Parkway, Room A204 Pleasanton • 925-962-9177 www.vivaelespanol.org

Please call for rate Accredited Diapers Accepted Education Based

Center

3 yr - 5

Please call for rate Play-Based

Center

2 yr - 6 Up to 92 children

Please call for rate

Center

Richmond Nomura Preschool

2 yr - 5 Up to 125 children

1629 Carlson Blvd.

Richmond • 510-526-7847 www.nomurapreschool.com

7:00 am – 6:00 pm

San Leandro Broadmoor Pre-School 951 Dowling Boulevard San Leandro www.broadmoorpreschool.org

Montessori School At Washington Ave 14795 Washington Avenue San Leandro • 510-278-1115

Diapers Accepted Education Based

St James Church Pre-School

2 yr - 6

Please call for rate Diapers Accepted Education Based

Center

2.5 yr 5 Up to 40 children

Please call for rate

Center

7:00 am - 6:00 pm

Education Based

993 Estudillo Avenue San Leandro • 510-895-9590

San Ramon Happy Days Preschool 20801 San Ramon Valley Blvd San Ramon • 925-828-8007 www.happydaysinfo.org

Dynamic Education The Optimizing Each Child’s Potential NOW ENROLLING FOR 2021 Child Day Schools, LLCCall for More Information • Language & Literacy • Math & Science • Problem Solving Parents’ • Art & Creativity Press BEST OF • Social Skills 2020 TOP 5 Low Ratios Highly Trained Teachers

FAMILY OPERATED SINCE 1976

www.t cdschools.com

Preschool • Pre-K • Jr.-K • Toddlers • Kindergarten • School Age ANTIOCH 925-754-0144 Lic# 073406638 073406639

SAN RAMON 925-820-2515 Lic# 073406846 073406845, 0734066634

PLEASANTON 925-462-1866

LAFAYETTE 925-284-7092

MORAGA 925-376-5110

Lic# 013420524 013420525

Lic# 073406632 073406633

Lic# 073406850 073406849

December 2020 | ParentsPress.com

29

Preschool Address City • Phone Website

Ages Served # of Children at Facility Religious Affil (if any) Hours of Care

Monthly Tuition Accredited Facility?

Diapers Accepted?

Education Based?

Home or Center Meals Provided?

Special Needs?

Transportation?

Teddy Bears Children’s Center

18 mos - 6 Up to 46 children

Please call for rate

Center

7:00 am - 6:00 pm

Education Based

12 months through 5 years; School-age Up to 120 children 7:30 am to 5:00 pm

$500 - $1,520 Diapers Accepted Education Based

Center Transportation available (for school-age)

3 yr - 5.5 Up to 40 children Christian 7:00 am - 6:00 pm

Please call for rate

Center

210 Porter Drive, Suite 110 San Ramon • 925-838-4148 www.teddybearschildrenscenter.com

The Child Day Schools 18868 Bollinger Canyon Road San Ramon • 925-820-2515 www.tcdschools.com

Walnut Creek Contra Costa Christian Preschool 2721 Larkey Lane Walnut Creek • 925-934-4964 cccss.org

Old Firehouse School 55 Eckley Ln Walnut Creek • 925-934-1507

The Seven Hills School 975 North San Carlos Drive Walnut Creek • 925-933-0666 www.sevenhillsschool.org

Trinity Lutheran Preschool 2317 Buena Vista Ave. Walnut Creek • 925-935-3362

12 mos - 5 Up to 80 children 8:00 am - 5:30 pm

Diapers Accepted Education Based

2.75 yr and up 21 in PS; 24 in PK PS 8:30 am - 1:30 pm PK 8:30 am - 2:00 pm

Annual $16,050 - $17,095 FA Available Accredited Education Based

Center Meals Provided

2 yr - 5 Up to 48 children Lutheran 7:30 am - 6:00 pm

$915

Center Meals Provided

Montessori Children’s Center Full and half-day programs available Before and after school care Open 7am - 6pm

An Authentic Montessori Preschool and Kindergarten Lic #384001313

Diapers Accepted Education Based

Serving children ages 2 - 6

80 Juan Bautista Circle | San Francisco | 415.333.4410 montessorichildrenscenter.org

Center Meals Provided

Diapers Accepted Education Based

The Model School

Comprehensive Humanistic Learning Center

Infants • Toddlers • Preschool Multicultural, Multiethnic Environments • Se Habla Español!

We have availability for young toddlers ages 15mo to 2yrs

Flexible Scheduling Loving, Developmental, Child-Oriented Classrooms Year’round Enrollment, Reasonable Rates 2330 Prince Street, Berkeley, CA 94705 Lic. 010211122 & 010211112

(510) 549-2711

Offering a Year Round Academic Montessori Program Preschool Program (ages 2-5) Kindergarten Program Part-day program: 8:45 a.m.-2:30 p.m.

Full-day program: 7:00 a.m.-6:00 p.m.

510-430-1322

Oak Grove Learning

Hwy 580 • Keller Ave exit 8115 Fontaine Street • Oakland 94605

Now Enrolling – Virtual Tour on website!

admin@oakgrovelearning.com www.OakGroveLearning.com

30

Parents Press | December 2020

License 013423093

Preschool Basics – Where to Begin

C

ontrary to what you might have heard, choosing the right preschool for your child is not as difficult as applying for an advanced degree. The key to choosing the right preschool

is going into the process prepared. Prepared with a solid idea

of what you want your child to gain from his or her preschool experience.

We offer helpful suggestions for choosing a preschool that is a good match for your child and your family, as well as information on some of the most popular types of preschool educational philosophies.

Think about the Basics

The best way to keep from becoming overwhelmed by the process of choosing a preschool is to think about how the preschool will fit into your daily life. Here are some questions parents should consider: • Is it important for the preschool to be near my home?

• Is it important for the preschool to be near my workplace?

• Is it important for the preschool to offer childcare services in the morning, afternoon, or both?

• Are you looking for a play-based classroom or a more academic setting?

• Am I eligible for or interested in subsidized preschool programs (i.e. Early Head Start, Child Welfare League

of America or state-funded programming) that offer services such as childcare programs with a focus on providing educational opportunities?

Answering each of these questions will help you narrow down the general location and type of setting you should research. Narrowing down your choices will make the process of comparing settings easier to manage.

Become Familiar with Common Terms For many parents, the most confusing part about choosing preschools is trying to make sense of terms such as, “Montessori Approach,” “child-centered,” “Waldorf Approach” and “faith-based.” What do these terms mean and how can these terms help you choose a preschool?

Oftentimes, the key difference between settings is connected to the preschool’s “educational philosophy.” While educational philosophies are numerous and their defini December 2020 | ParentsPress.com

31

The best ways to find preschool programs are to get recommendations from fellow parents and scope out programs located close to home or work. tions are not set in stone, we have provided you with definitions for some of the most popular philosophies.

Academic vs Play-Based Academic preschools have a mostly teacher-led classroom. Teachers and staff guide kids through a tightly structured curriculum. They introduce kids to several subjects, including math, reading, writing, science, and nature.

In a play-based program, children choose activities on their current interests. The play-based classroom is broken up into sections, such as a home or kitchen, science area, water table, reading nook, space with blocks and other toys or other areas. Teachers encourage the kids to play, facilitating social skills along the way.

The Montessori Method Focuses on maintaining the individuality of each child in the learning process. This method believes each child learns at their own pace and educational progress should not be rendered based upon comparing students to one another.

The Reggio Emilia Approach This approach focuses on providing opportunities for problem solving and expression through creativity and exploration.

The High/Scope Approach This approach focuses on letting children be in charge of their own learning. Children are taught to make a plan for what they would like to do each day and participate in a review session to discuss the success of their plan and brainstorm ideas for the next day.

Outside of the formal educational philosophies, knowing the difference between other common early childhood terms will help you make informed decisions regarding your child’s education. Below is a list of some common terms used to describe preschool settings. It should be noted that these terms may be used alone or in combination with one another (i.e. a “child-centered, faith-based” setting).

Child-centered This term is often used to describe settings that take the children’s interests into consideration when planning activities. For example: in a child-centered setting, the classroom activities are based on the interests of the students, not on pre-scheduled topics chosen by the teacher. These settings often offer increased opportunities for children to choose activities throughout the day depending on their interests.

Teacher-led

Emphasis is placed on imagination and experiential learning, providing students with opportunities to explore their world through the senses, participation and analytical thought.

The opposite of a child-centered setting is a teacherled setting. Teacher-led often means that curriculum and supplemental activities are implemented based on a set schedule developed by the teachers in the setting. This type of setting usually provides children with a structured learning environment.

The Bank Street Approach

Child-led

The Waldorf Approach

This approach places an emphasis on learning through multiple perspectives, both in the classroom setting and in the natural world with a strong focus on emotional and intellectual development.

32

Parents Press | December 2020

These settings believe children learn best when they are engaged and interested in learning. Child-led settings wait for each child to initiate or ask for new activities and experiences, fostering individualized learning experiences rather than group experiences.

Faith-based This term is used to describe preschool programs that are run through faith organizations such as churches or synagogues, according to their faith’s philosophies.

Co-operative These settings often ask parents and families to assist in the running of the preschool. Parents and family members may build community by signing up to volunteer during the week, or by assisting in the day-to-day management of the preschool as well as helping with advertising, upkeep and fundraising.

Developmentally Appropriate This term means the preschool plans the curriculum and activities based on activities that are appropriate for the age of the children in the class.

Pre-kindergarten (pre-K) Sometimes this term is used interchangeably with preschool. In general, a pre-K program is one that has children enrolled in the year before kindergarten, usually at age four. These settings are often more structured than traditional preschool settings.

Transitional Transitional kindergarten (TK) is a school grade that serves as a bridge between preschool and kindergarten, functioning to provide students with time to develop fundamental skills needed for success in school in an age - and developmentally-appropriate setting.

Your Research Once you have narrowed down the general area you are interested in researching and have a good idea of what type of philosophy would best suit your child, here are a few things you can do to help narrow down your options: Reach out to other parents: Ask your friends, your neighbors, your pediatrician, your older child’s teacher — ask people you trust for recommendations for quality settings in your area. Be mindful to note the name of the setting and what struck this person as important to mention (low student teacher ratio, close to home, child is excited to arrive, etc.). And, the best question to ask is, “What advice do you wish you had received before choosing your child’s preschool?” Most parents will be happy to offer their insight and advice.

Go online: You might be surprised to learn that your community has an active preschool networking community, a great place to tap into useful advice and resources. Or, you can use the internet to search the names of settings to find out if they have any “red flags” like numerous complaints from parents, health or safety violations, or other noteworthy issues. The Bananas and 4C’s of Alameda County and the Contra Costa Child Care Council websites offer a wealth of information for parents seeking information.

The best ways to find preschool programs are to get recommendations from fellow parents and scope out programs located close to home or work.

The Visit Now that you have narrowed down your choices and come up with a few settings you are interested in, schedule a time to visit each setting. You can learn a lot about a setting by the way staff approach introductory visits with you and your child. During your visit ask yourself the following questions: • Do I feel welcome here?

• Does my child seem interested in what they have to offer?

• Do the children in the setting seem happy?

• How do the adults and children interact?

• Is the setting clean, safe and up to date on safety protocals?

You should also come to the visit prepared with questions. Some of the basic questions parents ask are: • What percentage of the staff hold degrees in early childhood?

• How does the setting handle discipline?

• What are the safety procedures for picking up and dropping off children?

• Is the setting accredited?

• What is the turnover rate for staff members?

• What are the payment options and procedures?

Some parents feel more comfortable going to the visit with a checklist of questions they would like answered. We offer an even more in-depth list on parentspress.com. Parents should not feel like they need to ask every question on the checklist, however, using a checklist is a great way to make note of your observations during the visit so you can compare settings afterward. a

December 2020 | ParentsPress.com

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