Urban Mamas

Hi, I will be needing full time care for my then, six month old, starting in September (right now she is three weeks).  Every place I find is either full or has a huge population of kids getting care.  I am looking for a small childcare that is eco- friendly.  Does anyone have suggestions or ideas?  I heard in-home care is preferable.  This is our first child and I am very nervous about childcare.  My husband and I are both teachers and would be willing to trade a portion of tuition for tutoring if that is helpful for someone who has older children.  I specialize in special education (high functioning autism/aspergers/emotional challenges) and my husband is a high school teacher in math, chemistry, physics, biology, and earth science. I would appreciate any ideas or suggestions.  Thank you so much and have a beautiful day!!!  Jeramie

Hi Mamas ... I'm looking for recommendations for full-time care (we're open to it being a daycare, Montessori or home environment) for my nine-month-old son. We live in Beaverton and work downtown, so Beaverton, Raleigh Hills, Garden Home, NW Portland, downtown; all would be doable. Help! There are so many to comb through!

Thanks in advance,

Erin

Join us on February 12, from 10:00 a.m. to noon

or February 22, from 6:30 to 8:00 p.m.

for our annual open house

It's a great opportunity for families to tour the classroom,

meet with members of the RCCP community

and get to know our great teacher.

Rose City Cooperative Preschool
5830 NE Alameda Portland, OR 97213

Hi Parents,

Eastside Family Cooperative has multiple openings for children ages 18 mos to 3 years.

We are a group of families who have come together to provide quality, part-time childcare for our children. For most of our children, Eastside Family Co-op is their first early school experience and serves as a pre-preschool.

Our children are aged 18 months to about 4 years old (when most kids move on to more traditional preschools) in one large, mixed-age classroom. Children typically start between the ages of 18 months to 2 ½ years and stay for at least one year.

We are located in inner SE Portland and operate year-round on weekdays from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Families leave and join throughout the year.

Eastside Family Co-op is entirely parent-run. Each child attends three days from 9am to 1pm: two days "on her own" and one day with her "parent teacher."  (3-4 parents typically run Co-op on any given day.)  Tuition is $110/month.

We provide a network of support for parents and the chance for children to develop trusting relationships outside their immediate family. We value:

• Each person's individuality
• Peaceful conflict resolution
• Collaborative decision-making
• Daily opportunities for play, art, fresh air, music and reading
• Fresh, organic, unprocessed foods

Eastside Family Cooperative is a non-profit corporation and a member of Parent-Child Preschools of Oregon.

For more information, please visit our web site, www.eastsidefamilycoop.org.  To apply, fill out the membership inquiry form online, and you will be contacted by Co-op Membership. 

Thanks - we're looking forward to meeting new interested families!

Natasha Stanley
Co-op Membership
membership@eastsidefamilycoop.org

 

 Hi Urban Mamas! It’s school choice time again and many of you are trying to decide where to send your preschooler.  I was fortunate enough to find Hawthorne Family Playschool or "HFP" when our firstborn was ready for school two years ago.  At that time, I knew I had found a really special, sweet place for our child.  My daughter thrived there and I did too, making wonderful connections that came from being part of a deeply involved community of parents and children.

This year, our daughter started kindergarten and our son finally got his turn at HFP.  It’s been an eye-opening year for us, as we faced, at times, serious culture shock in the Portland Public School system.  In contrast, we have witnessed some of the most child-affirming moments at our preschool:  Children with intense separation anxiety gaining obvious confidence and showing wonderful growth in their relationships with other children…  A new student whose parents switched to our program because he was dreading school sharing that his favorite part of the day is going to HFP…  The day my son was having an off day and just wanted to “be alone” and we built him a little cave/fort inside of the hollowed out tree trunk in the loft room and gave him the emotional space and support to work through his temper tantrum (and he emerged as his normal, happy self a short while later, dying to check out the marbles and soapy water in the sensory table.)  Simply put, we have come to realize just how wonderful our preschool experience has been.  We are so happy to give our children this experience during such an important stage in their development.  

I don’t know for sure if our school is right for your family, but I feel certain that it is one of the best early childhood programs available and one that everyone should seriously consider.  In my mind, it’s a bit of a hidden gem, and I’m hoping my firsthand experiences, above, and the following information will encourage you to check out our Open House on Saturday, February 12^th (10am to 1pm).  We do give enrollment priority to families who attend, so mark your calendars!

I’m sure you’ll come with lots of questions that we’re happy to answer, but here are some of the important things to know about us:

Hawthorne Family Playschool or “HFP” is a small, mixed-age cooperative preschool, just south of the Hawthorne Safeway in southeast Portland. Being a cooperative, HFP is a great place for families that want to be active participants in their child's early development. 

We have the smallest class size of any of the eastside co-ops, with a maximum of 14 students with at least three adults (one teacher plus two scheduled parents helpers).  We also enjoy additional support from interns and benefit from a culture that encourages parents to participate.

Our teacher, Susan Eisman, has been working with children for more than twenty years and, in addition to holding a degree in art and women's studies, has completed master's level work in human development with a focus on the stages of childhood.  She draws her philosophy from many quality programs like Reggio Emilia and Waldorf without being overly dogmatic.  She is a deep thinker and a sweet soul, and she encourages us to think and talk about why our kids do what they do and how we can be supportive in their discovery of themselves as individuals and part of a group.

We are a diverse community of parents who place a high value on creating an environment that supports a preschooler's natural curiosity.  I was initially drawn to the school because I loved the emphasis on natural materials and getting fresh air and exercise without pre-scripting play with traditional play structures.  Our kids climb hay bales, balance on boards, scale our branch wall and have pretend tea parties in tee pees.   The Oregon Environmental Council designated HFP as an eco-healthy preschool and our kids enjoy healthy, vegetarian snacks each day.

Our program is heavily play-based, which I wasn't sure about at first, but I have come to appreciate the fact that 3, 4 and 5 year olds learn much of what they need to know from play and personal discovery.  I wondered if a play-based preschool would adequately prepare my children for kindergarten, but I now firmly believe that being part of a community like ours lays the foundation for lifelong curiosity and learning.  I also see how much better high energy kids like my son thrive in an environment that supports their need to move their busy bodies.

I encourage all of you to come visit HFP at our Open House between 10am and 1pm on Saturday, February 12^th and meet Susan Eisman, our very special teacher, and our community of deeply involved parents who are the other ingredient to making this a great environment.

Feel free to contact me with any questions you may have about our school or the co-op experience.

 Warmly,

Shannon Rhoads

Membership Coordinator, Hawthorne Family Playschool

Email me at:  membership at hawthornefamilyplayschool.org

 

Please Join us Friday Feb 4th at 4:00 for an Open House

Where:  Rising Song Preschool, 3912 NE 36th Ave.  Portland OR

We invite families interested in applying for Fall 2011 to come to an open house to meet our teachers and explore our environment.  Children are welcome to attend.  Space is limited, please call or email to reserve a spot (503-954-3235, risingsong@yahoo.com)

Rising Song Preschool is a certified home-based preschool in NE Portland.  We offer a loving, creative environment for children ages 3-5 with the low teacher/child ration of 1:6. Half and full-day care is available 2-5 days a week.

 

 

 

 

 

We have two spots open for late March after I return from maternity leave. 

Offering care to children ages 2 to 6 years, we are based in Hillsboro next to Mooberry Elementary. I enjoy offering challenging projects focused in art, science, and social responsibility. I have a background in fine art and art education and I am committed to encouraging creative learning, problem solving, and independent thought. 

Hours: 730am-530pm Monday through Friday

Rates: $185 per week

http://mrsyumyums.blogspot.com/

 

 

Hi Parents,

Eastside Family Cooperative is actively seeking 2.5-3 year olds who would enjoy a playschool environment before entering preschool in September 2011.  We are decreasing our traditional 1-yr commitment to 9 months for a limited time to fill these spots.  Please contact us as soon as possible via the web-based membership inquiry form linked below.

We are a group of families who have come together to provide quality, part-time childcare for our children. For most of our children, Eastside Family Co-op is their first early school experience and serves as a pre-preschool.

Our children are aged 18 months to about 4 years old (when most kids move on to more traditional preschools) in one large, mixed-age classroom. Children typically start between the ages of 18 months to 2 ½ years and stay for at least one year.

We are located in inner SE Portland and operate year-round on weekdays from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Families leave and join throughout the year.

Eastside Family Co-op is entirely parent-run. Each child attends three days: two days "on her own" and one day with her "parent teacher."  (3-4 parents typically run Co-op on any given day.)

We provide a network of support for parents and the chance for children to develop trusting relationships outside their immediate family. We value:

• Each person's individuality
• Peaceful conflict resolution
• Collaborative decision-making
• Daily opportunities for play, art, fresh air, music and reading
• Fresh, organic, unprocessed foods

Eastside Family Cooperative is a non-profit corporation and a member of Parent-Child Preschools of Oregon.

For more information, please visit our web site, www.eastsidefamilycoop.org.  To apply, fill out the membership inquiry form online, and you will be contacted by Co-op Membership. 

Thanks - we're looking forward to meeting new interested families!

Natasha Stanley
Co-op Membership
natashastanley@yahoo.com

 

 

 

Hi Parents,

Eastside Family Cooperative has multiple openings in December and January for children ages 18 mos to 3 years.  (We have rolling admissions, and are open year-round.)

We are a group of families who have come together to provide quality, part-time childcare for our children. For most of our children, Eastside Family Co-op is their first early school experience and serves as a pre-preschool.

Our children are aged 18 months to 3.5-4 years old (when most kids move on to more traditional preschools) in one large, mixed-age classroom. Children typically start between the ages of 18 months to 2 ½ years and stay for at least one year.

We are located in inner SE Portland and operate year-round on weekdays from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Families leave and join throughout the year.

Eastside Family Co-op is entirely parent-run. Each child attends three days: two days "on her own" and one day with her "parent teacher."  (3-4 parents typically run Co-op on any given day.)

We provide a network of support for parents and the chance for children to develop trusting relationships outside their immediate family. We value:

• Each person's individuality
• Peaceful conflict resolution
• Collaborative decision-making
• Daily opportunities for play, art, fresh air, music and reading
• Fresh, organic, unprocessed foods

Eastside Family Cooperative is a non-profit corporation and a member of Parent-Child Preschools of Oregon.

For more information, please visit our web site, www.eastsidefamilycoop.org.  To apply, fill out the membership inquiry form online, and you will be contacted by Co-op Membership. 

Thanks - we're looking forward to meeting new interested families!

Natasha Stanley
Co-op Membership
natashastanley@yahoo.com

 

...Play Academy Preschool is Now Enrolling! (Near OHSU)...

SW Portland/OHSU/Council Crest Park

 

Play Academy, A Successful Start for Every Child

 

Hello. My name is Claudia and I'm the Owner/Director of Play Academy, a brand new, certified preschool right here in Portland near the city center. We are located in SW Portland in the Council Crest neighborhood by Healy Heights Park, only 1 mile from the OHSU Campus and Hospital, and 2 miles from downtown.

 

At Play Academy, we are committed to providing your child with the highest quality of care and developmental opportunities available. Our approach is based on the belief that children learn and develop most effectively in a fun, social, nurturing, and inspiring environment. We blend the best of play and academics.

 

High-Quality Learning

I have over 10+ years experience with a Master's degree in Early Childhood Education with honors and my graduate thesis was in Math Acquisition. I'm certified at Step 11 in the Oregon Registry for Childhood Care and Education.

 

Child-Centered Care

We provide individualized programs to nurture the holistic development of your child. Our unique programs provide opportunities for growth in all five areas of child development - language, cognitive, social, emotional, and physical.

 

Kindergarten and 1st Grade Readiness

Our developmentally appropriate curriculum ensures your child will meet Oregon's standards, but we believe in supporting them to exceed them.

 

Structured Full-time Programs

* Toddler, Preschool, Pre-Kindergarten and Kindergarten Programs

* Weekly Lesson Plans

* Ages 2 to 7

 

Flexible Hours for Working Parents

* Open Year Round, Monday through Friday, 6:30am to 6:30pm

* Optional extended hours available from 6:30pm to 7:30pm

 

Fully Licensed Child Care

* Licensed by the State of Oregon

* Healthy snacks are provided, organic food available

* Certified Eco-Healthy Child Care

 

References Available.

 

Schedule a Tour

Please call to learn more and schedule a tour of our academy. Call 503-719-5038 or, email me at claudia@playacademy.com Also, please visit our website at www.playacademy.com

 

Thank you.

 

A home-based, cooperative preschool in the Mt. Tabor neighborhood has openings for 1-2 children ages three or four. We are four families who have created our school in order to provide our children with a montessori-based education and significant Spanish exposure with a native Spanish speaker. The school meets 8:30 - 1pm Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday. We may add a fourth day in the future if needed. Tuition for the three days per week will be between $283 and $324 per month depending on how many children are enrolled. Please contact us with any questions at liz.schwarz@yahoo.com. We look forward to meeting interested families. 

Hi Parents -

Is your child too young for preschool, but ready for playschool?  Are you interested in the immersive community-focused childcare experience that a Co-op offers to both parents and kids? 

Eastside Family Cooperative has openings in October and November, especially for children around 2 years of age (both boys and girls). 

We are a group of families who have come together to provide quality, part-time childcare for our children. For most of our children, Eastside Family Co-op is their first early school experience and serves as a pre-preschool.

Our children are aged 18 months to about 4 years old (when most kids move on to more traditional preschools) in one large, mixed-age classroom. Children typically start between the ages of 18 months to 2 ½ years and stay for at least one year.

We are located in inner SE Portland and operate year-round on weekdays from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Families leave and join throughout the year.

Eastside Family Co-op is entirely parent-run. Each child attends three days: two days "on her own" and one day with her "parent teacher."  (3-4 parents typically run Co-op on any given day.)

We provide a network of support for parents and the chance for children to develop trusting relationships outside their immediate family. We value:

• Each person's individuality
• Peaceful conflict resolution
• Collaborative decision-making
• Daily opportunities for play, art, fresh air, music and reading
• Fresh, organic, unprocessed foods

Eastside Family Cooperative is a non-profit corporation and a member of Parent-Child Preschools of Oregon.

For more information, please visit our web site, www.eastsidefamilycoop.org.  To apply, fill out the membership inquiry form online, and you will be contacted by Co-op Membership. 

Thanks - we're looking forward to meeting new interested families!

Natasha Stanley
Co-op Membership
natashastanley@yahoo.com

 

I am a very part-time work from home mother to an 18 month old son.  We, along with my husband, just moved to the area a month ago.  We live on a strict, minimalist budget and are brainstorming cheap childcare options.  

Something that makes sense to us is a childcare swap, where like-minded parents could trade "points" for flexible, free childcare.  

Here is our vision: Child-care provided by like-minded families on an equal exchange basis. This would allow us to have a community of parents to call upon when we need to go alone to an appointment, get some work done, or go out for a date night. [No overnights; the idea is for flexible, short-term child care needs]  No money is exchanged, but sitters would receive a certain amount of points (per child, per hour) that they could then "trade in" for child care in the future.  This would keep it balanced and fair, so that no one family is using lots of childcare without reciprocating.  Any age of child would be acceptable, even infants.  

We'd like to meet with other families who are interested in something like this.  We could host a gathering to meet up and see if it seems like a good fit.  We could then form a google group or yahoo group so that we could contact one another for childcare needs as well as organize playdates if so desired.   If you are interested, email me at { kjb1020 at gmail dot com }  and tell me a little bit about your family and parenting style.

About my family: Mama, Papa, toddler (18 months) young family who live in the Sellwood area. We just moved from Ohio in August 2010.  Like to go on walks, read books, do creative activities (color, dance, etc), and visit science museums, zoo, playgrounds.  Vegetarian, mostly-organic diet; simple lifestyle; spiritually minded; attachment parenting style.  We do some baby signs with our son.  We emphasize positive discipline and like to encourage our son's creativity and curiosity.  Papa works full time as a manager for a coffee shop, and Mama is a very part time online business researcher and social media consultant.  Non-smoking, very clean home, no pets.  Small home in very safe neighborhood.  I am CPR certified (just renewed in May 2010).  I have experience as a babysitter, mother, and dance instructor for ages 3-13. Our parenting is very child-driven, i.e. we emphasize exploration instead of flash cards.  Our son is playful, sweet, and mild-tempered.  

Again, please email if interested and we can start organizing something!

{ kjb1020 at gmail dot com }

We'd like to start two!  We have a three year old and a 15 mth old and we are interested in starting a play group/school for each with a couple of other families.   Do you have a oneish year old?  Do you have a threeish year old (having both not required). We conceptualize a one day per week meeting...in my home and perhaps one other parent home (rotating), from 8:30 amish to 12:30am ish (8-12 or 9-1...we're flexible at this point).  We'd like to hire a teacher together with you.  We're considering each family pays $20ish per day to hire a PSU Child and Family Studies student?  Parents arrange pick up/drop off.  Lunch included and provided by parents (can rotate).  These are our thoughts/ideas.  What are yours?  We are attachmentish parenting parents who practice art, music, home crafting, NVC, use organic foods, have a large organic permaculture garden filled back yard with chickens, fish, swing, etc, across from Kenton Park and are looking for additional socialization opportunities for both of our children.  Please email Teresa at teresa@insightsoutside.com.  Thanks!

Multnomah Playschool is a parent-cooperative preschool for children ages three through pre-K.

We have openings! 

For nearly 40 years, Rose City Co-op has started kids -- and parents -- on the road to learning with a fun and positive preschool experience.

We are located in Northeast Portland in the Rose City Park neighborhood. Our school is housed within, but not affiliated with, the Rose City Park United Methodist Church, where we enjoy a wonderfully bright classroom and spacious basement play area.

Contact jeanmzm@msn.com to learn more about our current openings, or visit our website at www.rosecitycoop.org

 

 

 

We have openings! 

For nearly 40 years, Rose City Co-op has started kids -- and parents -- on the road to learning
 with a fun and positive preschool experience.

We are located in Northeast Portland in the Rose City Park neighborhood.
  Our school is housed within, but not affiliated with, the Rose City Park United Methodist Church,
 where we enjoy a wonderfully bright classroom and spacious basement play area.

Contact jeanmzm@msn.com to learn more about our cutent openings,
 or visit our website at www.rosecitycoop.org

 

 

 

Urban Roots Playschool is a new in-home, child-centered playschool in the Montavilla neighborhood, easily accessible via Trimet and freeway from both NE and SE Portland, as well as Vancouver and the West Side. We offer a variety of services for children ages 1-12, and their families, focused on the child as an individual. Our loosely structured, rhythm-based flexible curriculum focuses on growing and cooking food, creating art, active play and becoming responsible citizens of our children's "tribe". Though we are most influenced by Waldorf and Montessori philosophies, our community definitely has the personality of both the teachers and the "students".

Our "playschool" has 2 age groups: ages 1-4 (preschool), and 5-10 (homeschool). Each group is held Monday-Thursday 9-2, or 12-5 (overlap for lunch and freeplay). Early and late starts are both available. Both groups will engage in individual and group projects that "teach" math, science, literacy, art, music, language, and physical education, with long, gentle transitions and overlap between activities, creating a relaxing and fun atmosphere free of pressure to "perform". Meals and snacks are generally vegetarian, organic and gluten-free, and are usually made onsite (often by the children).

Friday is "playcare" day. There will be no "curriculum" but the general rhythm will be the same.

Before and afterschool care, transport from local schools, and weekend care offered as available.

"Playnights" are offered on Friday evenings, and consist of dinner, a "dance party", outdoor and indoor activities.

We are flexible on start and end times, as long as the children arrive during a "transition" time, so that no one is arriving or leaving without finishing a project, enjoying the fruits of their labor, or starting behind the other children. Make no mistake, this is our home, NOT a large center. However, we have the same (if not more) experience, expertise, love and commitment of a "traditional" school.

Our rates are as follows. We DO offer partial scholarships, sibling discounts, full-time discounts when possible, and also are willing to accept DHS or other supplemental pay.

1/2 day "school" program : $25 per day
full day 8-6 : $45 per day
hourly rates beginning at $6
date night 5-10:30 $25 per child (Add $15 for overnight up till 10am).

please check www.urbanrootsplayschool.com for more info, or call 503-683-2552

Open Minds Preschool has a few openings left in our pre-K and kindergarten classes this fall!

Highlights include:

--Developmentally appropriate activities designed by our team of teachers, led by a director with a master's degree in education and an Oregon teaching license
--A comfortable home-like setting equipped with a range of quality toys, books, art materials, and more
--Daily art, music, stories, games, and fun early math and literacy activities
--Daily indoor and outdoor free choice time
--Organic, vegetarian snacks, plus lunch in our morning classes
--Weekly newsletters and a strong community of families

Our pre-K class is for children who are 4 years old by December and has current openings for girls, with a short waiting list for boys. We are a class of up to 12 kids with two teachers. Class meets Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays, 9am to 1pm. We provide lunch!

Our kindergarten class has openings for boys or girls who are 5 years old by December. We meet Monday through Friday, 1:00-3:30 pm. We will be implementing the Starfall kindergarten curriculum. Our class size is capped at 7 in order to be able to tailor the pace to each individual child.

Please visit www.openmindspreschool.com for photos and details, and contact us to schedule a visit! At this time, we have a waiting list for our Tuesday/Thursday class for younger preschoolers.
 

 Open Minds Preschool is looking for girls to balance out our pre-K class this fall! Our class is for 12 children age 4 by November, and meets Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 9am to 12:55 pm.

Highlights include:

Two educated and experienced teachers

Daily art, music, stories, games, and fun early math and literacy activities

Daily indoor and outdoor free choice time

Organic, vegetarian snack and lunch provided

Weekly newsletters and a strong community of families

Please visit www.openmindspreschool.com for photos and details, and contact us to schedule a visit with your daughter! At this time, we have a waiting list for boys and for our Tuesday/Thursday class for younger preschoolers. Children who are 5 by December are welcome to enroll in our afternoon kindergarten class!

Do you need to work, shop, or just have some time to yourself? Are you worried that you will not be able to find (or afford) the kind of experienced, loving, and compassionate care that your child deserves? Are you tired of having to choose between expensive nannies or big impersonal centers? Well, look no further! Urban Roots Playschool is a home-based, child-centered community with space available, with the flexibility to match your lifestyle. We even have sleepovers and date nights, so you can relax after a hard week of work.

WE OFFER:

~DHS pay, scholarships, and sibling discounts available

~experienced care from a mother AND educator=love AND knowledge!

~loosely structured but flexible and educational schedule includes cooking, art, yoga, music, spanish, science, literacy, math, and outdoor play

~influenced by Montessori, Waldorf, and Reggio Emilia, with flexibility for the needs of YOUR child!

~ supportive of connected parenting, breastfeeding, attachment parenting, and NVC (non-violent communication)

~children who are not "potty-trained " are welcome. i will even help them along, if you wish! I will happily support cloth diapering and EC

~organic, gluten-free meals, understanding of allergies

~part-time, full time, and date night availability




For more info, check www.urbanrootsplayschool.com or find us on facebook! We are located in the Montavilla/ North Tabor neighborhood, easily accessible by Max, bus, and freeway from Vancouver, Outer SE and NE Portland, Hollywood, Belmont, Hawthorne, Alameda, and many other neighborhoods. Please contact me with any questions. I look forward to welcoming your family into ours.

Hi Parents,

Eastside Family Cooperative has multiple openings in late August, September and October for children ages 18 mos to 3 years.

We are a group of families who have come together to provide quality, part-time childcare for our children. For most of our children, Eastside Family Co-op is their first early school experience and serves as a pre-preschool.

Our children are aged 18 months to about 4 years old (when most kids move on to more traditional preschools) in one large, mixed-age classroom. Children typically start between the ages of 18 months to 2 ½ years and stay for at least one year.

We are located in inner SE Portland and operate year-round on weekdays from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Families leave and join throughout the year.

Eastside Family Co-op is entirely parent-run. Each child attends three days: two days "on her own" and one day with her "parent teacher."  (3-4 parents typically run Co-op on any given day.)

We provide a network of support for parents and the chance for children to develop trusting relationships outside their immediate family. We value:

• Each person's individuality
• Peaceful conflict resolution
• Collaborative decision-making
• Daily opportunities for play, art, fresh air, music and reading
• Fresh, organic, unprocessed foods

Eastside Family Cooperative is a non-profit corporation and a member of Parent-Child Preschools of Oregon.

For more information, please visit our web site, www.eastsidefamilycoop.org.  To apply, fill out the membership inquiry form online, and you will be contacted by Co-op Membership. 

Thanks - we're looking forward to meeting new interested families!

Natasha Stanley
Co-op Membership
natashastanley@yahoo.com

Hello my name is Wendy and I am a professional caregiver. I have over 10 years of experience working with children. First with family members (including a step son), and then for other people's. I am a very warm and compassionate individual that feels very comfortable and competent caring for children. 

It has always been a dream of mine to start my own daycare/preschool. I am looking for an individual that has the space to start this venture or who has the means to rent a space. I am also looking for someone who is laid back, similar minded, and around the same age. I would like to be licensed so you would need to be or able to be registered with the Oregon Criminal History, be CPR/First Aid Certified, have a food handlers, and take or have taken the RCAN (Reporting Child Abuse and Neglect) class. I have worked in a daycare so I have already meet these requirements. If you are interested please contact me at the above e-mail and we can set up a time to meet. 

Thank you, 
Wendy 

Open Minds Preschool is looking for a few more children in our pre-K class this fall! Our class is for 12 children age 4 by September, and meets Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 9am to 12:55 pm. 

Highlights include:

• Two educated and experienced teachers under the guidance of an Oregon licensed teacher with a Master's degree in education

• Daily art, music, stories, games, and fun early math and literacy activities

• Daily indoor and outdoor free choice time

• Organic, vegetarian snack and lunch provided

• Weekly newsletters and a strong community of families
  

Please visit www.openmindspreschool.com for photos and details, and contact us to schedule a visit with your child! We also have openings in our new kindergarten program for summer and fall 5 year olds. At this time, we have a waiting list for our Tuesday/Thursday class for younger preschoolers. 

 
 

Do you need to work, shop, or just have some time to yourself? Are you worried that you will not be able to find (or afford) the kind of experienced, loving, and compassionate care that your child deserves? Are you tired of having to choose between expensive nannies or big impersonal centers?

Well, look no further! Urban Roots Playschool is a home-based, child-centered community with space available, with the flexibility to match your lifestyle. For the summer, we are welcoming ages 1-12, and have limited space for fall playschool and homeschool as well.

WE OFFER:

~experienced care from a mother AND educator=love AND knowledge!

~plenty to keep the kiddos busy: cooking projects, art, music, outdoor play ~influenced by Montessori, Waldorf, and Reggio Emilia, with flexibility for the needs of YOUR child!

~ supportive of unconditional parenting (U/P), attachment parenting, and NVC (non-violent communication)

~children who are not "potty-trained " are welcome. i will even help them along, if you wish! I will happily support cloth diapering, breastfeeding, babywearing, and can accomodate allergies and other family-specific practices.

~organic, gluten-free meals, understanding of allergies

For more info, check www.urbanrootsplayschool.com or find us on facebook! We are located in the Montavilla/ North Tabor neighborhood, easily accessible by Max, bus, and freeway from Vancouver, Outer SE and NE Portland, Hollywood, Belmont, Hawthorne, Alameda, and many other neighborhoods. Please contact me at info@urbanrootsplayschool.com with any questions. I look forward to welcoming your family into ours.

We are in the process of relocating and am struggling to find preschool options for my November 2007 boy.  Before relocating, we were anticipating a 4 day a week co-op preschool this fall in California; Oregon's starting school age means that he is not eligable for many preschool options here.   

Unless someone can direct me to something similar, I want to start a round robin play school starting late August or early September.  I anticipate being in the inner NE due to job location.  Ideally there would be four of us and each would host one morning a week from 9am-1pm.  The daily schedule would be flexible but the host would try to include circle/song time, a short lesson (perhaps based on a predetermined theme around the seasons or something), a craft, a snack and lunch, and many opportunities for free play.  We are a gentle discipline, APish house and would expect that others would also follow similar philosophies.

If you live in the inner NE, have a Fall 2007 child, and are interested in exploring such an arrangement, please email me -  irozelardo at yahoo dot com. 

Hi Urban Mamas!

Anyone still looking for an amazing preschool for Fall 2010?

Do you have a strong desire and some mornings available to participate in your child's early school experiences in a meaningful way?

Do you crave connection with other parents beyond the occasional playdate and chats at the park or coffee shop?

Hawthorne Family Playschool has a few spots available for 4 year olds and one spot available for a 3 year old this Fall. We need girls to keep our gender ratio even, but feel free to drop me a line if you have a preschooler who will be 3 or 4 by September 2010. As this year's Membership Coordinator, I'd be happy to help you with any questions or with sending you an application. You can email me at shannon.rhoads@yahoo.com.

The co-op experience has been great for my kids and for me. I'm heading into my third year at Hawthorne Family Playschool as a parent and I am so excited for the year ahead. My 3 year old son is finally old enough to attend HFP this Fall rather than just beg me to stay like he has been this year.

It's intensely gratifying to see the level of connections he already has to our teacher, to our school and to so many families from being a younger sibling in a co-op setting. I never anticipated the degree of socialization my younger child would get when I signed up my daughter at HFP two years ago. At that time, I was just so happy to get her in (we were on the wait list) and wasn't even thinking about preschool for my still nursing little boy.

I quickly connected with another family with a younger sibling and, for the last two years, we have taken turns caring for our youngest children when one of us was in the classroom parent helping. Unlike most other preschools, our youngest kids were also included in many of the extracurricular and community-building activities of the school and were treated like they were part of the community as well. As a result, I have a 3 year old boy starting preschool with about zero hesitation or anxiety. If anything, we may need to take his confidence down a notch or two. ;-)

I have an incredible community of people that I feel really connected to through the school. I'm now on the HFP board, which means I do even more work for the school, but I'm surprised to say how much I like it. It's been a learning experience for me, trying to juggle everything as a mom, but I know I will look back on these years with my kids and feel so glad I invested in this experience.

I hope I haven't focused too much on my personal experience and not enough on the details of the school, but I always get so much more out of first hand accounts from other parents. I did some Urban Mamas postings last year that tell you a bit more about the school and I would encourage you to check out the comments at the end of them in particular, as they speak volumes about how highly regarded the school is.

I look forward to hearing from any of you wishing to learn more about HFP.

Best,

Shannon

Open Minds Preschool is looking for girls to balance out our pre-K class this fall! Our class is for 12 children age 4 by September, and meets Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 9am to 12:55 pm. Highlights include:

Two educated and experienced teachers

Daily art, music, stories, games, and fun early math and literacy activities

Daily indoor and outdoor free choice time

Organic, vegetarian snack and lunch provided

Weekly newsletters and a strong community of families

Please visit our website  for photos and details, and contact us to schedule a visit with your daughter! At this time, we have a waiting list for boys and for our Tuesday/Thursday class for younger preschoolers. Our new afternoon kindergarten class, for children turning 5 in summer or fall, has openings.

Come visit us at our open house next Saturday June 19^th from 10-12:00.

 

Village Preschool is a co-op in SW Portland and has openings for 3 and 4 year olds in the Tues/Thursday program from 9:15- 11:45. 

At village, we believe that creative play is the foundation of learning for children.

-We believe that children and parents benefit from a strong relationship between family and school.

-Our objective is to provide a safe and inviting space for exploration and discovery, and an appropriate curriculum that enhances individual creativity and self-esteem.

We have a wonderful space, with lots of natural light.  Our teachers are well established with the school and direct the program with the help of parent helpers.  We also have a summer program through the month of July.

To learn more, please call 503-245-0482 or visit www.swvillagepreschool.com

A home-based cooperative preschool in the Mt. Tabor neighborhood has openings for 1-2 children age three or four. We are three families who created our school in order to provide our children with a montessori based education and significant Spanish exposure with a native Spanish speaker. The school meets 8:30 - 1pm three days a week currently, but we are considering adding a fourth day. Tuition for the three days per week will be between $283 and $324 per month depending on how many children are enrolled. Please contact us with any questions at liz.schwarz@yahoo.com. We look forward to meeting interested families. 

Hello Mamas and Papas,
I am an enthusiastic AMI Montessori Student Teacher looking for a family or two to help this summer. I have over ten years experience caring for infants, toddlers and preschoolers in home and school environments. I've also volunteered as a SMART elementary reading tutor and I currently volunteer for Big Brothers and Sisters, mentoring an 8 year old. My approach to children includes lots of respect and positive communication with the whole family, guided creative activities with the little ones and plenty of sensorial-based exploration. I love singing songs, splashing in fountains, reading, cooking, leading process oriented art projects and gardening with children.

I'm available for flexible part-time or full-time care from June 1st to late September. During the school year, my availability will remain open a few days a weeks and for occasional date nights, if needed. I'm hoping to create a lasting relationship with a wonderful family or two! Although I do not currently own a car, I do have a valid Oregon Driver's License and plenty of experience escorting little ones around Portland via Trimet or the family vehicle. I especially love taking walks and hikes with children, exploring the wonders of nature through the fives senses. Also, I love animals and have lots of experience as a pet/house sitter, so I'm happy to help feed chickens, walk dogs or help with whatever else needs tending. My rates are negotiable for the perfect match, and dependent upon your needs. I look forward to meeting your family!

mariahsbaker@gmail.com

I am a Stay-At-Home-Mama (SAHM) to 3 beautiful children, ranging in age from infant to elementary school, and I also have over 20 years of experience in childcare, education, and enrichment.  All of my experience has taught me many things, amongst them:

~there is more than one way to learn, and every child deserves the best way for THEM

~"learning" does NOT mean you have to have every second of every day PLANNED- you find opportunities in children's natural curiosity

~it really DOES take a village to raise a child, so consistency and collaboration are important - for parent AND child

~you don't have to be rich to deserve top-notch care for your child

If you agree with these things, and would like your child in a montessori and waldorf - influenced environment, where the child is king (or queen), nutritional and delicious foods (allergies considered, of course!) abound, and all parenting styles and religious or spiritual beliefs are respected, please feel free to contact me. Our family utilizes attachment parenting, connected (unconditional) parenting, and NVC (non-violent communication), and eats mostly organic foods. Gluten-free diet available as well!

I may be able to accept DHS payment too, just ask! I am flexible on hours, rates, and would be willing to watch the children in my home (on the North Side of Mount Tabor/ Montavilla, near 82nd and Burnside) or yours, depending on the hours and specifics. I do not currently drive, though my husband does, so pickup and dropoff may be possible, as well as overnights, tutoring, laundry, cleaning help, etc. I welcome your family into our tribe. Contact molliv@gmail.com for more info

Stay at home dad looking for 1-2 more toddlers to join our weekly adventures (M,W,F).  We spend our days exploring our neighborhood, going on urban hikes, taking the train on grand adventures, or playing Thomas trains at Barnes and Nobles when it cold and raining.  We read books, sings songs, draw pictures, dance around the kitchen, build towers and drive our trucks, trains and cars.   We also occasionally watch a Caillou video, or practice sing language with Signing Time, which we LOVE!

We have decided we'd try finding a few like minded families, like ourselves, who are not quite ready for the preschool experience, but really want, and need, to introduce more socialization into the mix - making it more like a Manny share, than daycare, but with all of the fun of a daycare environment. 

My husband has BSW from Oakwood college and spent over 10 years working with at risk kids.  He's decided he's ready for a more rewarding environment and one where his days can be spent having a great time while being a positive influence on kids lives.  He has taught daycare, was a camp counselor, and worked as a live in childcare provider for almost two years. 

If you're interested in learning more about our family, please give us a call (650-430-4115).  We're ready for the next chapter in our son's life (he turns two next week), and we hope it involves some great new friends. 

This is also the first step for us in a bigger vision of creating an indoor play place and preschool for kids here in the Portland-Metro area - more about that soon!

Many blessings,

Jenn and Sa'id

You are invited to Tigard Playschool's Open House on April 30th from 1-3pm.  Bring your kids, meet our teachers & learn more about our co-op preschool!

We are currently accepting registrations for the 2010-2011 school year and have openings in each of our four classes: a 2/3 blend class, a Mixed Age class, a 4's class, and a Pre-Kindergarten class.

Tigard Playschool is a co-op preschool with a strong reputation in the community for a warm, loving environment with close teacher-student relationships. We celebrated our 50th anniversary in 2008! Our curriculum is known for its creative art, sensory science, enthusiastic music and movement program and popular dramatic play area with themes that change monthly.

When children first visit our school, they are naturally drawn into the classrooms because they look like such great places to play! Parents, however, are always relieved to know that our space is not only fun, it is also organized into distinct learning centers. Materials are carefully selected for each area so that no matter where children choose to spend their time, they are learning.

We are located at 9845 SW Walnut Pl., Tigard 97223 / 503-639-8110.

Please visit tigardplayschool.com for more information!  *We also have summer camps!*

Looking for a wonderful preschool program for your little one for 2010-11?  Portland Circle of Friends & Family Preschool will host an Open House for interested families on Wednesday, March 3, 2010 from 6:30-7:30pm.  Circle of Friends is a play-based cooperative preschool program in its thirteenth year of operation.  We are located in Classroom #2 of the Kelly Building, 9015 SE Rural Street, Portland 97266.  Our teacher and board members will be on hand at the Open House to answer questions and give tours. 

Please visit our website at: portlandcircloffriends(dot)org  or call us at 503-916-5762.  We look forward to meeting you!  

 

Hi all:

The Hawthorne Family Playschool Open House is this Saturday, February 20th from 10am to 1pm.  Please come check us out first-hand and see why we are such a happy community of parents and kids.

   

Also, please check out my earlier post on Urban Mamas for more information about us, as wells as lots of great comments from former and current parents.

Hawthorne Family Playschool is located in SE Portland, south of the Hawthorne Safeway at:

2828 SE Stephens Avenue

Portland, OR 97214

 

Cathedral Park Preschool is holding an Open House on Wednesday, February 24, from 6-8PM. We are an eco-certified program located in North Portland. As a cooperative preschool, we offer parents and children the opportunity to learn and grow together through play. We offer class Tuesday/Thursday for children age 3 by September 1 and a Monday/Wednesday/Friday program for children age 4 by December 31. Both classes are from 9AM-11:30AM. Following the open house we will begin accepting applications for our 2010-2011 school year. See our website at  http://cathedralparkpreschool.org/what_is.html for more information. We look forward to meeting your family!

Hi all:
My daughter's preschool is such a sweet place; I'd love to get the word out, especially as we have spots available for the current school year. (Open spots are for girls right now to maintain gender diversity. We have spots both in the Mon/Wed class and the Tues/Thurs class.) Our open house is coming up on February 20th from 10am to 1pm. I encourage all of you to come visit HFP and meet Susan Eisman, our very special teacher, and our community of deeply involved parents who are the other ingredient to making this a great environment.


Hawthorne Family Playschool or "HFP" is a great place for families that want to get involved in their child's early development. We are a diverse community of parents who place a high value on creating an environment that supports a preschooler's natural curiosity. I was initially drawn to the school because I loved the emphasis on natural materials and getting fresh air and exercise without pre-scripting play with traditional play structures. Our kids climb hay bales, balance on boards, scale our branch wall and have pretend tea parties in tee pees. The Oregon Environmental Council designated HFP as an eco-healthy preschool and our kids enjoy healthy, vegetarian snacks each day.

We have one teacher -- Susan Eisman -- who draws her philosophy from many quality programs like Reggio Emilia and Waldorf without being overly dogmatic. She is a deep thinker and a sweet soul, and she encourages us to think and talk about why our kids do what they do and how we can be supportive in their discovery of themselves as individuals and part of a group. We also highly value diversity in our community, and thrive from being surrounded by many different versions of families, personality types and backgrounds and beliefs.


Our program is heavily play-based, which I wasn't sure about at first, but I have come to appreciate the fact that 3, 4 and 5 year olds learn much of what they need to know from play and personal discovery. I wondered if a play-based preschool would adequately prepare my daughter for kindergarten, but I now firmly believe that being part of a community like ours lays the foundation for lifelong curiosity and learning.


If you are interested in the co-op experience in general, our school in particular, or the spots we have available, I really encourage you to contact our membership coordinator. I'm also happy to give my two cents. I think all schools have pros and cons and I will give you my honest opinion of Hawthorne Family Playschool. There are many reasons to recommend it and I'd love to fill our open spots with little ones who would thrive in our community.

Cheers, Shannon

 I am a Stay-At-Home-Mama (SAHM) to 3 beautiful children, ranging in age from infant to elementary school, and I also have over 20 years of experience in childcare, education, and enrichment. I am looking for children to watch, teach, tutor, etc (At your home or mine). Cleaning, office assistance, personal assistance also available.

All of my experience has taught me many things, amongst them:

~there is more than one way to learn, and every child deserves the best way for THEM
~"learning" does NOT mean you have to have every second of every day PLANNED- you find opportunities in children's natural curiosity
~it really DOES take a village to raise a child, so consistency and collaboration are important - for parent AND child
~you don't have to be rich to deserve top-notch care for your child

If you agree with these things, and would like your child in a montessori and waldorf - influenced environment, where the child is king (or queen), nutritional and delicious foods (allergies considered, of course!) abound, and all parenting styles and religious or spiritual beliefs are respected, please feel free to contact me. Our family utilizes attachment parenting, connected (unconditional) parenting, and NVC (non-violent communication), and eats mostly organic foods. Gluten-free diet available as well! I may be able to accept DHS payment too, just ask!

I am flexible on hours, rates, and would be willing to watch the children in my home (on the North Side of Mount Tabor/ Montavilla, near 82nd and Burnside) or yours, depending on the hours and specifics. I do not currently drive, though my husband does, so pickup and dropoff may be possible, as well as overnights, tutoring, laundry, cleaning help, etc. I welcome your family into our tribe.

Contact molliv@gmail.com for more info

I am a Stay-At-Home-Mama (SAHM) to 3 beautiful children, ranging in age from infant to elementary school, and I also have over 20 years of experience in childcare, education, and enrichment. I am looking for children to watch, teach, tutor, etc (At your home or mine). Cleaning, office assistance, personal assistance also available (15 years of office experience, including bookkeeping!).

All of my experience has taught me many things, amongst them:

~there is more than one way to learn, and every child deserves the best way for THEM
~"learning" does NOT mean you have to have every second of every day PLANNED- you find opportunities in children's natural curiosity
~it really DOES take a village to raise a child, so consistency and collaboration are important - for parent AND child
~you don't have to be rich to deserve top-notch care for your child

If you agree with these things, and would like your child in a montessori and waldorf - influenced environment, where the child is king (or queen), nutritional and delicious foods (allergies considered, of course!) abound, and all parenting styles and religious or spiritual beliefs are respected, please feel free to contact me. Our family utilizes attachment parenting, connected (unconditional) parenting, and NVC (non-violent communication), and eats mostly organic foods.

I am flexible on hours, rates, and would be willing to watch the children in my home or yours, depending on the hours and specifics. I do not currently drive, though my husband does, so pickup and dropoff may be possible, as well as overnights, tutoring, laundry, cleaning help, etc. I welcome your family into our tribe.

email: molliv@gmail.com

WoodHaven School is a Waldorf-inspired cooperative preschool dedicated to fostering a love of lifelong learning. Small class sizes and outdoor learning encourage students to develop a strong sense of community and love of nature.  We strive to promote humanitarianism and environmental awareness. Our daily rhythm emphasizes the order of events in our consistent routine. Children find comfort and security knowing this predictable sequence. Our four-hour school day allows the teacher and children time to fully explore areas of interest and to share a noon meal together in addition to our morning snack.

We are currently enrolling for ages 3 (or almost 3 and potty trained) for a new Tues/Thurs class starting this October.

Visit our website at www.WoodHavenSchool.com for more information.

Please join us at our Fall Open House on October 12 or call us at (503) 520-0807 to schedule a tour today.

Mount Tabor Cooperative Preschool (MTCP) has started accepting applications for the school year beginning September 2009 in both our Junior (3 year old) and Senior (4 year old) classes. We are happy to arrange a tour of our wonderful school upon request.

MTCP is a 59 year old developmental, play-based, cooperative preschool. We endeavor to provide a wide variety of experiences to accommodate a child's interests and needs as individuals and as members of a group. We provide opportunities that stimulate social skills and promote self-esteem. Mt Tabor Preschool is an Eco-Healthy Child Care program certified by the Oregon Environmental Council.

If you are interested and would like more information please:

Visit our website www.mttaborpreschool.org or call us at: 503-914-1988.

Mt. Tabor Preschool values diversity and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, socio-economic status, family

MPS, a nationally-acclaimed co-op preschool in the heart of SW Portland, is having it's annual open house on Monday Jan. 26th at 6:30pm (kids are welcome!).  Once honored as a "Top 10 U.S. Preschool" by Child Magazine, it is currently the only co-op in PDX accredited by the National Association for the Education of Young Children.  MPS features a unique anti-bias curriculum and provides top-notch education at surprisingly affordable tuition.  If you live near SW PDX it's worth checking out on Monday!  RSVP 503-244-9141.

I just wanted to share some information about Creative Children's Center in Beaverton.  My son has been going there since he turned 2 and we love the school.  CCC is Oregon's largest parent-child cooperative preschool and Kindergarten.  They actually have programs from 14 months to 6 years of age.  I love being a part of my son's school experience and my husband actually parent helps once a month, so he gets to have his own special time with my son at school.  It's been fantastic seeing my son become an independent child.  He loves school and wants to go everyday!

They're holding an open house on Saturday, January 17th & Saturday, February 21st from 9:30am to 12:30pm.  There also visitation days available during the week on January 21, January 27, February 4, and February 10th.  Visitation hours are from 9:30 to 11:30am.

You can get more info on the school at www.creativechildrenscenter.com

The school is located at 2515 SW 185th Avenue, Beaverton, OR 97006

Feel free to contact the school with any questions at 503.591.0604

Mark your calendar - call-in registration for the 2009-2010 school year at Hancock Street Preschool is  Thursday, January 15, 2009 between 9:00am and 8:00pm. Please call Stacey Lehman @ 503-255-5727 on that date if you want to be included in the lottery.

We accept 18 children from the families who call on registration day, as well as children from alumni families. A lottery drawing is held to fill available spots. You must call on January 15 to be included in the lottery. Families will be notified the following week.

Your child must be 3-years old on or before September 1, 2009 to be eligible for the 2009-2010 school year. Financial assistance is available.

Hancock Street Preschool is a cooperative preschool for 3 and 4-year old children. Our 3-year old class meets on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 9:30am – noon. Our 4-year old class meets on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 9:30am – noon.

In the spirit of a cooperative, parent participation is essential to maintain a quality program. Family participation is required in the following ways:

• Parent helping: Approximately   once every three weeks. 
• Serving on a Committee:   Approximately 2-3 hours per month.
• Fundraiser participation:   Annual poinsettia sale. Families sell enough plants to contribute approximately   $185 to the school or donate a larger amount.
• Mandatory Parent Meetings:   4 or 5 mandatory meetings per year.

Need more information?  Call 503-255-5727 or go to www.hancockstreetpreschool.com