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 daughter was ready for school and, four years later, I consider myself fortunate to still be a part of this program and community with our son.

I didn’t set out to look for a co-operative preschool, but I’m so glad this is the direction we chose for our family.  Maybe this seems obvious to others, but I only recently began to see our co-op as a kind of social experiment.  The phrase “it takes a village to raise a child” is something many of us pay lip service to, but we rarely if ever have the opportunity to test it in any real way.

At HFP, 28 families elect every year to run a school together. I’m not sure everyone sees it quite that way when they enroll, but that’s really what it boils down to.  It’s true we have a framework and culture already in place from previous years and we have an indispensable visionary and leader in our Teacher, Susan Eisman.  That said, I believe our program’s success lies less in following a successful formula, and more in truly connecting with each other around a common goal – in this case, raising our children.  

Over time, I have come to realize that a co-op like ours helps parents learn and grow, not just children.  Being a part of a tight-knit community like ours is an incredible opportunity to build something bigger than just a school program.  Families in a co-op tend to get very close because we really do play together.  We get to know (and love!) each-other’s children through parent-helping.  There is also a greater level of trust between us because we all work so closely together.  

It’s a wonderful feeling watching my children deepen relationships with people that I feel connected to as well.  I also have a much greater ability to help them navigate these relationships when I have some personal insight to offer.  As a community, we can give each other friendship and support, both emotional and material.  We encourage our families to reach out to each other for playdates, arrange childcare swaps, share ideas and resources, and generally just tap into the positive energy that comes from connecting with each other around the children we love.

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 want to encourage you to check out our Open House on Saturday, February 11th (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 under construction in SE 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 11th 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 Chair, Hawthorne Family Playschool

Email me at: membership at hawthornefamilyplayschool.org 

Lotus Heart Preschool is a play based preschool program located in SW Portland for 3-5 yr olds.

Please join us for one of our upcoming Open Houses:

Wed. February 8th 5-7pm, or Thurs. March 8th 5-7pm. Children are welcome to attend. RSVP for this event by phone or email.

We are Eco Healthy certified, and our philosophy is inspired by Waldorf education and the schools of Reggio Emilia. We have a strong emphasis on art and environmental education. Sign Language and Spanish are part of our daily curriculum. Our day provides time for creative play and art, gardening, baking, storytelling/theater, and visiting our neighborhood park. We sing, rhyme, play cooperative games, and do creative movement and yoga at our daily circle time. We provide a morning tea time with organic healthy snacks, children bring lunch from home.

We offer a morning program, 9am-1pm Mon- Fri.  You may choose how many days per week your child attends.

Visit our website or call for more information on our teacher, tuition, and to reserve a space for the 2012-2013 school year.

www.lotusheartpreschool.com

503-452-6148

have a wonderful day!

* You are warmly invited to our annual open house on Saturday, February 4^th from 10 am to noon. We are now accepting applications for the 2012 – 2013 school year.   

The Willow Tree Preschool is an eclectic fusion of philosophies and approaches to education (including Waldorf and the schools of Reggio Emilia, Italy) developed with over 20 years of experience in early childhood education. Blending a respect for nature, with a focus on art, in a warm beautiful home environment created to meet the needs of the young child. Children are encouraged to move and learn at their own pace, inviting them to explore and build meaning through their experiences. At the Willow Tree children’s natural sense of awe and wonder about the world is nurtured through movement, song, and story, with an emphasis on art, nature and seasonal cycles. Weekly visits from the yoga and art specialist promote further exploration, enhancing our curriculum.

The preschool hours are from 9 am to 1 pm for children 3 to 5 years of age.

We would love to meet you and your children at our open house. Please RSVP to kim@willowtreepreschool.com for more information and an application please visit our website http://www.willowtreepreschool.com

Wild Lilac offers a progressive Waldorf and Reggio inspired preschool program for children ages 2 years old through 5 years old in Inner SE Portland!

In Daffodil House, our program for 2-3.5 year olds, we offer a morning program (8:30am-12:30pm) and a full day program (8:30am-4:00pm).
At Iris House, our program for 3.5-5 year olds (or kindergarten-ready), we offer a morning program (8:00am-1:00pm) and a full day program (8:00am-4:00pm).

Our in-home classrooms provide children with plentiful and varied opportunities to construct knowledge about the broadening world around them using simple wooden toys, a plethora of art, building and storytelling materials, dress up clothes and silks, materials for light and shadow exploration and more.

Outside of the classroom, we explore our neighborhood and community through fieldtrips to gain a deeper understanding of the ideas we explore inside our classrooms.

Our teachers hold the image of each child as capable, competent, and curious and strive to meet each individual children's interests and passions with learning opportunities that inspire. It is the teacher's role to observe the children, support their learning and to gently guide them to accept challenges and solve problems. Wild Lilac teachers document the children's experiences to make their learning visible to the whole community.

At Wild Lilac, we see ourselves as a community of child and adult learners and we provide regular opportunities for parent/guardian discussions and community events for children staff and families.

Food is an important part of the culture of our school. Our cook prepares organic meals (breakfast, snack, lunch and afternoon snack) for the children that feature local and seasonal produce, whole grains, beans, and homemade breads.
Come join us for our February open house to see our spaces and learn more about our school!
Visit our website at www.wildlilac.org

Questions?

Please email us: wildlilac@wildlilac.org

Or call: 503-236-3240

I'm new in town and seeking an experienced and fun-loving care-giver for my child for 10 hours a week on Tuesdays and Thursdays, plus other occasional nights and weekend babysitting.

I am open to:

*one-on-one childcare in my home

*nanny share in my home or another home in NE with another child, similar age

Please email me if you are interested.  mary@marymulliken.org

Your family is warmly invited to the annual open house at Rowanberry School 

Saturday, January 28th from 10 a.m.-noon.

Our open house provides an opportunity for prospective families to meet the teachers, learn about our philosophy and explore our rich and magical environment.

Come discover for yourself the unique qualities that have given Rowanberry School its reputation for excellence.

Please R.S.V.P. if you plan on attending, and include your child's name, age, and desired schedule (3 or 4 days per week.)

Rowanberry School is a home based mixed-age kindergarten for children ages 3-6. Our school is inspired by the progressive early childhood programs of Reggio Emilia, Italy, influenced by the rhythms of the Waldorf kindergarten and informed by over 20 years of experience in early education.                                                                                                    

We are currently accepting applications for the 2012-2013 school year.

For more information about Rowanberry School, please visit our blog:

http://rowanberryschool.typepad.com/news/

To obtain an application, visit our website at:

http://rowanberryschool.com/Rowanberry_School/Enrollment_1.html 

Director Angela Molloy Murphy can be reached at: rowanberryschool@mac.com

* You are warmly invited to our annual open house on Saturday, February 4^th from 10 am to noon. We are now accepting applications for the 2012 – 2013 school year.   

 The Willow Tree Preschool is an eclectic fusion of philosophies and approaches to education (including Waldorf and the schools of Reggio Emilia, Italy) developed with over 20 years of experience in early childhood education. Blending a respect for nature, with a focus on art, in a warm beautiful home environment created to meet the needs of the young child. Children are encouraged to move and learn at their own pace, inviting them to explore and build meaning through their experiences. At the Willow Tree children’s natural sense of awe and wonder about the world is nurtured through movement, song, and story, with an emphasis on art, nature and seasonal cycles.  

Weekly visits from the yoga and art specialist promote further exploration, enhancing our curriculum.   

The preschool hours are from 9 am to 1 pm for children 3 to 5 years of age.

 We would love to meet you and your children at our open house. Please RSVP to Kim at kim@willowtreepreschool.com for more information and an application please go to our website http://www.willowtreepreschool.com

Little Hands Garden School is an Eco-healthy preschool located on Hawthorne @59th on the edge of Mt. Tabor.  We are a home-based program with a ratio of 2:8.  Our hours are 9-1, M-Th.

Lunch and one to two snacks (mostly organic, always homemade) are
provided daily.  Our activities include a drama, song/music circle, reading,
snack, art, outdoor play (gardening or other), dance/yoga/games,
baking, lunch, story time, and more outdoor play.  We also do field
trips on Mt. Tabor and to neighborhood parks.  We are outside all day
when the weather permits.

Our current plays are 3 Little Pigs, Billy Goats Gruff, and Abiyoyo.  You can view these on our you tube channel LHGardenSchool, or use the link below:

http://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL8A06DF8CDB30DB6D

We believe all curriculum needs to be inquiry-based, and
 is modeled upon the interests of our students.  Our schedule
changes daily as we sometimes get so involved in our projects we
forget the time...... which is kind of the goal, really.  We draw from
many pedagogical ideologies including Reggio Emilia, Waldorf and
Montessori.  At our school children are free to play, to be outside
with the chickens, bunnies, or in the garden, free to run, scream,
sing, dance, dress up, hug, read, rest, paint, glue, glitter, explore,
dig, hang from a trapeze, get dirty, get naked, and make as many
messes as they want.  The only No's are things that could hurt
yourself or others.  This is above all a place for children to be free
to explore the world as they wish.

Tuition is as follows, paid monthly:
1 day/wk $160
2 days/wk $320
3 days/wk $480
4 days/wk $600

We accept children ages 3-5.   We look for a long-term commitment when we welcome a new family, as we form a special relationship with each child and don't like to say
goodbye until Kindergarten.

For more information or to schedule a tour Call Erin Cowan, MA, ED at 503 481-5189 or email us at littlehandsgardenschool@gmail.com

Thank you!

* You are warmly invited to our annual open house on Saturday, February 4^th from 10 am to noon. We are now accepting applications for the 2012 – 2013 school year. 

 The Willow Tree Preschool is an eclectic fusion of philosophies and approaches to education (including Waldorf and the schools of Reggio Emilia, Italy) developed with over 20 years of experience in early childhood education. Blending a respect for nature, with a focus on art, in a warm beautiful home environment created to meet the needs of the young child. Children are encouraged to move and learn at their own pace, inviting them to explore and build meaning through their experiences. At the Willow Tree children’s natural sense of awe and wonder about the world is nurtured through movement, song, and story, with an emphasis on art, nature and seasonal cycles.  In an atmosphere which encourages both active exploration as well as quite time to reflect, your child might choose to bake with the group, engage in dramatic play with a friend, drape herself in silk and dance around the room, paint, or build with a variety of materials…as well as caring for our organic garden, the bunny, and two guinea pigs!

Weekly visits from the yoga and art specialist promote further exploration, enhancing our curriculum.

The preschool hours are from 9 am to 1 pm for children 3 to 5 years of age.

We would love to meet you and your children at our open house. Please RSVP to  kim@willowtreepreschool.com for more information and an application please go to our website http://www.willowtreepreschool.com

Lotus Heart Preschool is a play based preschool program located in SW Portland.

We are Eco Healthy certified, and our philosophy is inspired by Waldorf education and the schools of Reggio Emilia. We have a strong emphasis on art and environmental education. Sign Language and Spanish are part of our daily curriculum. Our day provides time for creative play and art, gardening, baking, storytelling/theater, and visiting our neighborhood park. We sing, rhyme, play cooperative games, and do creative movement and yoga at our daily circle time. We provide a morning tea time with organic healthy snacks, children bring lunch from home.

Our program is from 9am-1pm for children ages 3-5 years old.

Please join us for one of our upcoming Open Houses:

Wed. February 8th 5-7pm, or Thurs. March 8th 5-7pm.  Children are welcome to attend. RSVP for this event by phone or email.

Visit our website or call for more information on our teacher, tuition, and to reserve a space for the 2012-2013 school year.

www.lotusheartpreschool.com
503-452-6148

have a wonderful day!

Your family is warmly invited to the annual open house at Rowanberry School on Saturday, January 28th from 10 a.m.-noon. Our open house provides an opportunity for prospective families to meet the teachers, learn about our philosophy and explore the environment.

Please R.S.V.P. if you plan on attending, and include your child's name, age, and desired schedule (3 or 4 days per week.)
Rowanberry School is a home based mixed-age kindergarten for children ages 3-6. Our school is inspired by the progressive early childhood programs of Reggio Emilia, Italy, influenced by the rhythms of the Waldorf kindergarten and informed by over 20 years of experience in early education.

For more information about Rowanberry School, or to apply for enrollment, please visit the enrollment page of our website at:

http://rowanberryschool.com/Rowanberry_School/Enrollment_1.html 

or contact director Angela Molloy Murphy at: rowanberryschool@mac.com

Enrolling Preschool and Kindergarten Now for 2012-2013!

Offering 2, 3 and 5-day morning programs...

Your child will love our small classes (8 children per class) led by experienced teachers.

Song Garden offers an education for your whole child. We strive to create an optimal environment for children to imitate and explore.

To nurture the balance and wellbeing of the growing child, rhythm underlies our mornings together. Daily activities include storytelling, puppetry, art projects, music, preparing organic snacks, rest time and free play. Within our daily ‘circle-time’ the teacher shares finger-plays and songs with themes that connect the child to their natural environment, allowing the children to fully enter activities with their imagination.

Each day we enjoy outdoor free-play on five acres of Sewallcrest Park, a pesticide-free inner city green space with old growth trees.

We invite you to visit our website at www.songgarden.org for more info. Our phone # is 503-780-2948 and email is songgardenpreschool@yahoo.com.

Song Garden is conveniently located between SE Hawthorne and Division at 3240 SE Lincoln, Portland, OR 97214 (click for Map).

                                                                    
You are warmly invited to our annual open house on Saturday, February 4^th from 10 am to noon. Enrollment for the 2012 – 2013 school begins at this time. 

 The Willow Tree Preschool is an eclectic fusion of philosophies and approaches to education (including Waldorf and the schools of Reggio Emilia, Italy). Blending a respect for nature, with a focus on art, in a warm beautiful home environment created to meet the needs of the young child. Children are encouraged to move and learn at their own pace, inviting them to explore and build meaning through their experiences. At the Willow Tree children’s natural sense of awe and wonder about the world is nurtured through movement, song, and story, with an emphasis on art, nature and seasonal cycles.  In an atmosphere which encourages both active exploration as well as quite time to reflect, your child might choose to bake with the group, engage in dramatic play with a friend, drape herself in silk and dance around the room, paint, or build with a variety of materials…as wells as caring for our organic garden, the bunny, and two guinea pigs!

Weekly visits from the yoga and art specialist promote further exploration, enhancing our curriculum.

The preschool hours are from 9 am to 1 pm for children 3 to 5 years of age.

 We would love to meet you and your children at our open house. Please RSVP to Kim at kim@willowtreepreschool.com and for more information check out our website http://www.willowtreepreschool.com

Still looking for an amazing preschool for your child?  

Hawthorne Family Playschool has a spot for a 3 or 4 year old.

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. 

Aside from our fabulous teacher, our strength comes from families that are eager to fully participate in the HFP community. This is particularly true of HFP, given that we keep our class size smaller than most (14 students).  Smaller classes allow for greater focus on each child and create a more intimate feel to our classroom environment.

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.

A co-op is a unique school model in that so much of it is parent-driven. Over the years, it’s become apparent that the co-op experience isn’t right for everyone. For the families who love our program, however, (and there are many!) they see what we do as deeply rewarding. They see the contributions they make to our program as worth the effort, and often the effort is part of the enjoyment as well.  We’re not just bringing our children to school, we’re building a tight-knit community with them, and it’s a labor of love.
 

At HFP, we look for families who are really excited by our vision and who can help us create a strong community for the school and for the children. I encourage all of you to contact me with any questions you may have about our school or the co-op experience and to request an application.  

Warmly,

Shannon Rhoads

Membership Coordinator, Hawthorne Family Playschool

Email me at:  membership at hawthornefamilyplayschool.org

School in the Forest.... if that sounds magical to you, come learn about Woodhaven School's Outdoor Kindergarten and nature-based preschool programs this weekend.

Woodhaven School in Beaverton (near SW Walker and HWY 217) is hosting an Open House for parents and kids interested in joining our Outdoor Kindergarten or Preschool programs for the 2012-2013 school year.

Woodhaven School is a Waldorf-based preschool and outdoor kindergarten. We are a non-profit, cooperative school with three grade levels: 3-4 year olds, 4-5 year olds and Kindergarten!

OPEN HOUSE

Saturday, January 7, 2012
Outdoor Kindergarten Round-Up 2-3 pm
Preschool 3-5 pm

11265 SW Cabot Street
Beaverton, OR 97005
Located in the basement of St. Bartholomew's Church (not affiliated)

Learn more about Woodhaven.

Hello, Welcome to our beautiful "Waldorf/RIE" inspired Infant & toddler care home.

We are state registered & certified & a “Green” Daycare (no pesticides, harmful, chemicals or cleaners, & use only organic food).

We are looking for a couple of very committed parents who appreciate Waldorf & RIE methods. We are a media free space with only Mother Nature as our greatest source of inspiration & your child's natural curiosity.

Your child will be surrounded by natural beauty, gentle hands, warm hearts & soothing daily rhythm. We will sing, play, & explore each day.  The surroundings are soothing with toys like, silks, wooden toys felted animals, & homemade toys.
We will bake, clean, garden & play our day away! We will go outside (rain or shine) daily as well.

There is room for your infant age 5 months & a  toddler up to age 3.  

We are licensed to care for up to 16 children a day & have a ratio on average of 3/1, but no more than 4 children to one teacher...Our  Hours of operation is 8:00- 5:00.

Throughout the year we plan many events for all the families to enjoy. Like farm trips, potlucks, park time & toy making.

Our staff is all college educated and we have excellent references! This is our fourth year in business, and our sister school (Apple Blossom Nursery School) has been in business for almost 8!

There is daily communication about your child’s day. We also group children into "family style" groupings. Not all infants in one group, but one infant, wobblers & toddler so each age can learn from the other. Our teachers are lovingly referred to as "Aunties" and will care for the same group of children as much as possible.

We offer parenting classes as well. It is much more than just a day care!

We are doing tours now. Please email me for more info & to set up a tour. We have both part time & full time openings.

Happy New Year & May all your dreams come true!

You can check out parent reviews here:

http://www.savvysource.com/preschools/or/portland/apple-blossom-beginnings

http://www.appleblossomschool.com/  (Web site. Click on "Apple Blossom Beginnings tab once on site)

WE ARE NOW ENROLLING FOR THE  2012-2013  SCHOOL YEAR!!

Little Lights Playschool is located in North Portland just steps from  Pennisula Park and the I-5 freeway.

 We are open Tuesday – Friday  from 9:00  – 1:00

Children 2.5 to 5 years old

Little Lights Playschool is a gentle step from home to school rooted in community and inspired by our children.  Here you will find a warm and loving just like home environment for your young preschooler.   Each day at Little Lights brings the opportunity for creative  play and exploration in our beautiful playroom.  Lively morning circle times are full of rhymes and seasonally inspired songs and movements.  Nature stories and fairy tales told from memory with the help of puppets and props.  Together we  bake our bread, prepare our soup, create beautiful  watercolor paintings and various crafts and handwork projects.  We enjoy the natural world around us with daily outside play.  Meal times are special and meaningful.  We give thanks for our food and our friends and practice healthy eating habits and good manners.  Each day is full of wonder, celebration and good friends!

Wild Lilac Child Development Community offers a progressive Waldorf and Reggio inspired preschool program for children ages 2 years old through 5 years old in Inner SE Portland!
We have an opening in January for a 4 or 5 year old at Iris House, our preschool program for 3.5 year olds to kindergarten-ready children.
At Iris House, our program for 3.5-5 year olds (or kindergarten-ready), we offer a morning program (8:00am-1:00pm) and a full day program (8:00am-4:00pm)
Our in-home classrooms provide children with plentiful and varied opportunities to construct knowledge about the broadening world around them using simple wooden toys, a plethora of art, building and storytelling materials, dress up clothes and silks, materials for light and shadow exploration and more.
Outside of the classroom, we explore our neighborhood and community through fieldtrips to gain a deeper understanding of the ideas we explore inside our classrooms.
Our teachers hold the image of each child as capable, competent, and curious and strive to meet each individual children's interests and passions with learning opportunities that inspire. It is the teacher's role to observe the children, support their learning and to gently guide them to accept challenges and solve problems. Wild Lilac teachers document the children's experiences to make their learning visible to the whole community.
At Wild Lilac, we see ourselves as a community of child and adult learners and we provide regular opportunities for parent/guardian discussions and community events for children staff and families.
Food is an important part of the culture of our school. Our cook prepares organic meals (breakfast, snack, lunch and afternoon snack) for the children that feature local and seasonal produce, whole grains, beans, and homemade breads.
Please contact us for a visit if you are interested in having your child join our group this January!
Visit our website at www.wildlilac.org
Wildlilac@wildlilac.org. 503-236-3240

I am looking for a child to watch in my home.  I am a mother of two girls, ages 5 and almost 2.  My five year old is in preschool part-time.  We live in the Montavilla neighborhood and frequent the local area activities such as Montavilla community center, neighborhood walks, and Normandale Park.  I am an avid gardener and spend time in our great back yard with the girls everyday.  Cooking gourmet vegan and vegetarian meals is one of my favorite things to do, and I believe allowing my children to take part in the meal preparation and clean up is very important in fostering a strong knowledge and positive relationship with food and community.  As a former preschool teacher, I understand the importance of having a daily rhythm, and providing learning opportunities using engaging activities for the children to work and explore.  We paint, sew, garden, bicycle, read, dance, sing, make things, and play together.  

I am very open to schedules and would be available for full-time or part-time.  Mostly I am looking for the right family fit. Thank you and I look forward to meeting you.

Still looking for an amazing preschool for your child?  

Hawthorne Family Playschool has a spot for a child who turned 3 by September 1st but is not yet 4. 

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. 

Aside from our fabulous teacher, our strength comes from families that are eager to fully participate in the HFP community. This is particularly true of HFP, given that we keep our class size smaller than most (14 students).  Smaller classes allow for greater focus on each child and create a more intimate feel to our classroom environment.

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.

A co-op is a unique school model in that so much of it is parent-driven. Over the years, it’s become apparent that the co-op experience isn’t right for everyone. For the families who love our program, however, (and there are many!) they see what we do as deeply rewarding. They see the contributions they make to our program as worth the effort, and often the effort is part of the enjoyment as well.  We’re not just bringing our children to school, we’re building a tight-knit community with them, and it’s a labor of love.
 

At HFP, we look for families who are really excited by our vision and who can help us create a strong community for the school and for the children. I encourage all of you to contact me with any questions you may have about our school or the co-op experience and to request an application.  

Warmly,

Shannon Rhoads

Membership Chair, Hawthorne Family Playschool

Email me at:  membership at hawthornefamilyplayschool.org

Woodhaven School is hosting an Open House on Saturday, October 8th from 3-5 pm.

Meet Teacher Heidi, check out our Waldorf-inspired classroom and explore our woods! We are a cooperative preschool and outdoor kindergarten in Beaverton. Our school emphasizes child choice and a love and respect for nature.

Woodhaven School

11265 SW Cabot Street

Beaverton, OR 97005

503-520-0807

Woodhaven School is in the lower level of St. Bartholomew's Church (not affiliated).

Tabor Tots Preschool is now enrolling for Fall session.

For More Information, please visit us at www.tabortotspreschool.com

OR Contact 'Teacher Candace' for a walk through today... 503-933-0139

A Waldorf/Montesrroi combined preschool on Mt Tabor in SE Portland Oregon.

7:30 am till 5:30 pm Monday-Friday

Whole Food AM/PM and lunch served daily.

2, 3, 4 & 5 day options provided. 

Lotus Heart Preschool is a play based, Waldorf and Reggio Emilia inspired program.  We provide natural materials in a rich, nurturing environment.  Children have opportunities to work with a multitude of art materials, compose and act out stories, learn basic Spanish and Sign Language, explore light, shadow, and shape at the light table, have imaginative and dramatic play time, work in the garden, bake, and play at the park.  We sing, rhyme, share, do creative movement/yoga, and play cooperative games at our daily circle time.  We provide a daily tea time with organic snacks, children bring a lunch from home.  Our teacher, Brynn Anderson, has 16 years teaching experience in a variety of preschool settings. 

Our program runs from 9-1 Monday-Friday for preschool age children 3 -5 years old. We have 2 spots left for this year, and we are currently reserving spaces for the 2012-2013 school year.  Families may choose the days of attendance and tuition is based on days/week.  Please call or email to learn more or to set up a time to visit.  We look forward to hearing from you!

www.lotusheartpreschool.com

My daughter just turned 2 and has become obsessed with the idea of going to school. We weren't planning on sending her to preschool until next year, but she's asking again and again and anytime we're out and see a preschool she tries to follow them back to school.

I work from home and am able to watch her full time, so am not looking for traditional daycare--nor do I have the budget for that. I'd love someplace she can go for 2 days or so for half days, so she can have the structure of a school-type situation and meet other kids. I have scoured the web looking for co-ops and other options and haven't really come up with much. Most places take only 3 year olds (and up) or are full day daycare situations. 

Any advice, ideas or recommendations would be greatly appreciated. Thank you! Please feel free to message me at nicmmiller at gmail dot com.

New Day School-

Portland's Ananda Marga preschool, childcare center and kindergarten has

 openings for 3 & 4 year olds

New Day School has been serving Portland families since 1979, offering a unique Neo-Humanist curriculum, based on ethical values and green living.

New Day School provides full day  care for children 2.5-7 years old year round

Helping hands, service and kindness are at the heart of our program

with a huge emphasis on healthy living and outdoor P L A Y !

New Day School offers an introduction to yoga and meditation, gardening, art, music and PLAY!

New Day provides wholesome snacks and hot lunch, some of it grown in our own backyard!

We also offer sliding scale tuition & welcome DHS families.

For enrollment information & tours, contact Heidi M-F 8:00-12:00 503-231-7425

Our 2 year old class is currently full, we are waitlisting for the 2012/2013 school year.

or e-mail us at newdayschool@gmail.com

New Day School, Portland's Ananda Marga preschool, childcare center and kindergarten has  two part week openings, in our preschool program. 

New Day has been serving Portland families since 1979-

Offering a unique Neo-Humanist curriculum, along with gardening, vegan meals, music and art. 

We are blessed with  an amazing outdoor space, that features a natural playscape, with a beautiful custom, cedar playsturcture, with a climbing wall, bridges and tree house.

Our program is  based on ethical values-   

simple living, service and kindness which are  relflected  throughout our program with green practices and gentle loving interactions with our children.

We value & embrace diversity and welcome DHS families. 

New Day School offers sliding scale tuition.

For enrollment information & tours contact Heidi at 503-231-7425  e-mail us at newdayschool@gmail.com

Lotus Heart Preschool is a play based, Waldorf and Reggio Emilia inspired program.  We provide natural materials in a rich, nurturing environment.  Children have opportunities to work with a multitude of art materials, compose and act out stories, learn basic Spanish and Sign Language, explore light, shadow, and shape at the light table, have imaginative and dramatic play time, work in the garden, bake, and play at the park.  We sing, rhyme, share, do creative movement/yoga, and play cooperative games at our daily circle time.  We provide a daily tea time with organic snacks, children bring a lunch from home.  Our teacher, Brynn Anderson, has 16 years teaching experience in a variety of preschool settings. 

Our program runs from 9-1 Monday-Friday for preschool age children 3 -5 years old. We are currently enrolling for fall and have a few spots left.  Families may choose the days of attendance and tuition is based on days/week.  Please call or email to learn more or to set up a time to visit.  We look forward to hearing from you!

www.lotusheartpreschool.com

Rising Song is a small Waldorf inspired preschool in NE Portland.  We offer a loving, creative environment for children ages 3-5 with the low  teacher/child ratio of 1:6.

We have one opening, two half days:  Monday and Friday  from 8:30-1:00.  Our tuition is sliding scale based on income.  Please see our website for more details:www.risingsongpreschool.org.  Or contact us at risingsong@yahoo.com to arrange a tour.

In our classroom children participate in baking, gardening, painting and handwork. Songs, stories and puppet shows provide rich material for the imagination and teach about the natural world. Children develop problem solving skills through cooperative activities and guided conflict resolution.  Family gatherings are scheduled throughout the year to foster community and celebrate the seasons.

Share our fabulous "manny" (male nanny)!

We're looking for a child ages 1 to 2 1/2 to share the care of our trusted childcare provider, Rob.

Rob has been with us for more than a year and is amazing, his credentials are below. 

So, your child could be cared for from 9am to 5pm on Wednesday, Thursday and Friday, with a lot of flexibility therein, although we'd prefer that the child be with us at least two days per week for consistency.

Our home is near 39th and Belmont. We aren't rigid followers of any particular child development philosophy, but have been influenced by Magda Gerber and her RIE approach, as well as Waldorf and Montessori. So we don't do any videos or TV and try to have mostly "open-ended" toys, which the children must interact with creatively (i.e. very few toys where you push a button and something happens).

We do lots of outside time and have a large garden with veggies, edible plants and flowers, fruit trees and native plants. Rob also takes our son on outings to the library, the swap shop, the zoo, OMSI and Laurelhurst Park.

Your child could start any time.

Please let me know if you're interested in meeting us and Rob!

Marti

503.819.4789

martifrank (at) gmail.com

-------

About Rob:

Education
• BA in English Literature with a minor in Education (UAF)
• MEd in Elementary, Early Childhood and Middle School (PSU)

Experience
• 5 Years working with children from 5-12 Years
• 3 Years working with children from 1 Month-4 Years

Certificates and Training
• FBI Fingerprint Clearance
• First Aid/CPR Certificate
• FFCN Training (Child Development, Challenging Behavior, etc.)
• Love and Logic Training
• OCCD in Childhood Care and Education (Step 10 of 12)
• Oregon Criminal History Registry
• Oregon Food Handler Certificate
• OSP Fingerprint Clearance
• Positive Behavior Support Plan Training
• Recognizing and Reporting Child Abuse and Neglect Certificate
• Seminars on Children's' Literacy (elementary and early childhood)

Volunteer Work
• Multnomah County Library (2006-2008)
• Schoolhouse Supplies (2006-Present)

Skills/Hobbies
• Art (you name it)
• Geocaching (outdoor adventure)
• Cooking
• Basic construction

Keywords: nanny share, childcare, Southeast Portland child care, toddler 

Lotus Heart Preschool is a play based, Waldorf and Reggio Emilia inspired program.  We provide natural materials in a rich, nurturing environment.  Children have opportunities to work with a multitude of art materials, compose and act out stories, learn basic Spanish and Sign Language, explore light, shadow, and shape at the light table, have imaginative and dramatic play time, work in the garden, bake, and play at the park.  We sing, rhyme, share, do creative movement/yoga, and play cooperative games at our daily circle time.  We provide a daily tea time with organic snacks, children bring a lunch from home.  Our teacher, Brynn Anderson, has 16 years teaching experience in a variety of preschool settings. 

Our program runs from 9-1 Monday-Friday for preschool age children 3 -5 years old. We are currently enrolling for fall and have a few spots left.  Families may choose the days of attendance and tuition is based on days/week.  Please call or email to learn more or to set up a time to visit.  We look forward to hearing from you!

www.lotusheartpreschool.com

www.hawthornefamilyplayschool.org

Hi, my name is Catherine.  My husband and I have a three-year-old daughter who, in a few short weeks, will begin her first days of preschool.  We could not be happier with our choice in Hawthorne Family Playschool. 

Hawthorne Family Playschool is a nature and play-based environment. The outdoor play area is a world of wonder and an extension of the indoor classroom.  From the first time our daughter visited the school, she opened up in a completely new and wonderful way.  Usually afraid to climb, she immediately scampered up and down the climbing ropes outside, jumped into the large, covered sand area and moved indoors.  She found an art table to explore, a pretend area to play, a trampoline, and the indoor tree house where she continued her newfound courage in climbing.  After comfortably exploring, she settled into a rocking chair to enjoy a book. 

While my daughter was enjoying her book, I had an opportunity to speak with the teacher, Susan Eisman.  Susan is a very inspiring and encouraging teacher.  She draws from the practices of Reggio Emilia, Waldorf, Reevaluation Counseling and peace activism.  She completed her Master’s coursework in human development and has been joyfully working with young children and families since 1990.

“I get to give children messages about how amazing they are.  I get to encourage each child to take risks, be compassionate, and build relationships.  I get to nudge children to trust themselves, to solve problems and to resolve conflicts.  I partner with children to appreciate the natural world, to notice and appreciate differences among people and to encourage children to stand up for the best possible outcome.  In these ways, we build a healthy community of learners.”

We knew from watching our daughter that day, hearing from other parents and speaking with Susan, that we had found a wonderful school for our daughter.

As an introduction, Hawthorne Family Playschool had play-dates at neighborhood parks this summer as well as a potluck picnic.  In the coming weeks, there is an annual Ice Cream Social at the school, which should be a fun and relaxed environment for all the families to mingle and greet each other.  (I say relaxed but I also mentioned ice cream…and there will be kids…well, it will be fun!)  Shortly after, Susan will be scheduling our in-home visit, allowing for one-on-one time with our family and giving her time to get to know our daughter.

If you are looking for a preschool for your child, I highly recommend Hawthorne Family Playschool.  It is an amazing school with a wonderful teacher and a kind, committed group of parents.

If you would like to schedule a tour, meet our teacher or have any questions, please contact our Membership Coordinator, Shannon at 503-332-6530.  You may also visit our website at www.hawthornefamilyplayschool.org.

Thank you,

 Catherine

Lotus Heart Preschool is a play based, Waldorf and Reggio Emilia inspired program.  We provide natural materials in a rich, nurturing environment.  Children have opportunities to work with a multitude of art materials, compose and act out stories, learn basic Spanish and Sign Language, explore light, shadow, and shape at the light table, have imaginative and dramatic play time, work in the garden, bake, and play at the park.  We sing, rhyme, share, do creative movement/yoga, and play cooperative games at our daily circle time.  We provide a daily tea time with organic snacks, children bring a lunch from home.  Our teacher, Brynn Anderson, has 16 years teaching experience in a variety of preschool settings. 

Our program runs from 9-1 Monday-Friday for preschool age children 3 and up. We are currently enrolling for fall and have a few spots left.  Families may choose the days of attendance and tuition is based on days/week.  Please call or email to learn more or to set up a time to visit.  We look forward to hearing from you!

New Day School Portland's Ananda Marga preschool, childcare center and kindergarten

has two part week,  openings for 3 & 4 year olds

New Day School offers a unique Neo-Humanist curriculum based on core ethical values

New Day has a huge natural outdoor play-scape, fruit trees and vegetable gardens. 

We are outdoors rain or shine all year round, enjoying focused and free play nature study.

New Day School offers an introduction to yoga and meditation, focused garden classes, as well as arts & crafts and lots of  P L A Y !  Our days are full of routine, whimsy, wonder and community.

New Day School has been serving children since 1979

We offer sliding scale tuition, which included before and after care, wholesome vegan meals and  beautiful classroom materials.  

For enrollment information, please contact Heidi (503-231-7425) M-F from 8:00-Noon.

**The Willow Tree Preschool is an eclectic fusion of philosophies and approaches to education (including Waldorf and the schools of Reggio Emilia, Italy). The children’s natural sense of awe and wonder about the world is nurtured through movement, song, and story, with an emphasis on art and nature as well as seasonal cycles. Children are encouraged to move and learn at their own pace, inviting them to explore and build meaning through their experiences. Embracing the child in  gentle, warm, and nurturing, surroundings, cultivates a child who is confident and insightful. Supporting their social, emotional, physical, creative and intellectual development, in a beautiful home environment created to meet the needs of the young child. Interest, inquiry and reflection guide projects that may last for a few days, weeks, months, or even the year. Weekly visits from the art specialist promote further exploration, enhancing our curriculum.

For more information visit the website http://www.willowtreepreschool.com or contact Kim at kim@willowtreepreschool.com

Lotus Heart Preschool is a play based, Waldorf and Reggio Emilia inspired program.  We provide natural materials in a rich, nurturing environment.  Children have opportunities to work with a multitude of art materials, compose and act out stories, learn basic Spanish and Sign Language, explore light, shadow, and shape at the light table, have imaginative and dramatic play time, work in the garden, bake, and play at the park.  We sing, rhyme, share, do creative movement/yoga, and play cooperative games at our daily circle time.  We provide a daily tea time with organic snacks, children bring a lunch from home.  Our teacher, Brynn Anderson, has 16 years teaching experience in a variety of preschool settings.  Our program runs from 9-1 Monday-Friday for preschool age children 3 and up. 

We are currently enrolling for fall and have a few spots left.  Families may choose the days of attendance and tuition is based on days/week.  Please call or email to learn more or to set up a time to visit.  We look forward to hearing from you!

Song Garden currently enrolling for our 2-day program (Thurs. – Fri.) for the 2011-2012 school year. Your child will love our small classes (8 children per class) led by 2 experienced teachers. Class is held between 9am – 1pm and is $285 per month from Sept. through June.

Song Garden offers an education for your whole child. We strive to create an optimal environment for children to imitate and explore.

To nurture the balance and wellbeing of the growing child, rhythm underlies our mornings together. Daily activities include storytelling, puppetry, art projects, music, preparing organic snacks, rest time and free play. Within our daily ‘circle-time’ the teacher shares finger-plays and songs with themes that connect the child to their natural environment, allowing the children to fully enter activities with their imagination.

Each day we enjoy outdoor free-play on five acres of Sewallcrest Park, a pesticide-free inner city green space with old growth trees.

We invite you to visit our website at www.songgarden.org for more info. Our phone # is 503-780-2948 and email is songgardenpreschool@yahoo.com.

Song Garden is conveniently located between SE Hawthorne and Division at 3240 SE Lincoln, Portland, OR 97214 (click for Map).

We are losing our beloved nanny at the end of August & need to find some help pronto. I work from home (SE Foster & 70th) & am very flexible, so the hours can really be tailored around your school/work schedule. Our current nanny works Mon, Wed, Fri from 8am-1pm, but any morning would work (except for Tues). I am hoping to find someone for around 15 hours/week, but would accept fewer hours for the right candidate. A bit about my boy: he's a sweet, bookish, creative, highly verbal, very charming little fellow who loves to paint, draw, sing songs, read books, play in the sandbox & figure out puzzles. Preferred candidate must be open to attachment parenting & unconditional parenting methods. I view our situation as ideal for either a college student looking for a very flexible part time job (I am open to hours changing as your schedule changes) or a stay-at-home-mom who wants to earn a little money. If you have a child around the same age, all the better. X would love to have a playmate!

Please email or call if you think we might be a good fit:
503-231-8222 or rainylaines@gmail.com

Kindly,
Charlotte

                                                                                        
We have limited space left for the 2011-2012 school year. Contact us for information.

The Willow Tree Preschool is an eclectic fusion of philosophies and approaches to education (including Waldorf and the schools of Reggio Emilia, Italy). Blending a respect for nature, with a focus on art, in a warm beautiful home environment created to meet the needs of the young child. Children are encouraged to move and learn at their own pace, inviting them to explore and build meaning through their experiences. At the Willow Tree children’s natural sense of awe and wonder about the world is nurtured through movement, song, and story, with an emphasis on art, nature and seasonal cycles.  In an atmosphere which encourages both active exploration as well as quite time to reflect, your child might choose to bake with the group, engage in dramatic play with a friend, drape herself in silk and dance around the room, paint, or build with a variety of materials…as wells as caring for our organic garden, the bunny, and two guinea pigs!

Weekly visits from the yoga and art specialist promote further exploration, enhancing our curriculum.

The preschool hours are from 9 am to 1 pm for children 3 to 5 years of age.

We would love to meet you and your children for more information check out our website http://www.willowtreepreschool.com or contact Kim at kim@willowtreepreschool.com

Lotus Heart Preschool is a play based preschool located in SW Portland.

We are Eco Healthy certified, and our philosophy is inspired by Waldorf and the schools of Reggio Emilia.  Sign Language and Spanish are part of our daily curriculum.  We provide morning tea with organic healthy snacks, children bring lunch from home.

Our day is from 9am-1pm for children ages 3-5 years old.
We are currently enrolling for summer and fall 2011. 
Our Summer Session will run through the second week of August.  Please contact us if you would like to visit before the summer session closes.  Our school year program will begin Wednesday September 7th.

Please visit our website or call for more information on our teacher, tuition, and school year program.

www.lotusheartpreschool.com
503-452-6148

have a wonderful day!

New Day School

Portland's Neo-Humanist preschool, childcare center and kindergarten, has a few openings left for fall! 

We havelimited  spaces for three and four year old friends to join our dynamic community.

New Day School serves children 30 month - through kindergarten, with a full day, year round  program that includes before and after care in one flat rate, sliding scale tuition.

We offer wholesome vegan snacks and a hot, family style  lunch

New Day School has been providng excellent childcare since 1979

We offer yoga, an introduction to meditation, gardening and a beautiful natural enviroment, that fosters personal growth and ethical values. 

NDS is a project of Ananda Marga.

Please contact Heidi at newdayschool@gmail.com, for enrollment information,

or visit our website   newdayschool.org

We have limited space available for the 2011-2012 school year. Contact us for information.

The Willow Tree Preschool is an eclectic fusion of philosophies and approaches to education (including Waldorf and the schools of Reggio Emilia, Italy). Blending a respect for nature, with a focus on art, in a warm beautiful home environment created to meet the needs of the young child. Children are encouraged to move and learn at their own pace, inviting them to explore and build meaning through their experiences. At the Willow Tree children’s natural sense of awe and wonder about the world is nurtured through movement, song, and story, with an emphasis on art, nature and seasonal cycles.  In an atmosphere which encourages both active exploration as well as quite time to reflect, your child might choose to bake with the group, engage in dramatic play with a friend, drape herself in silk and dance around the room, paint, or build with a variety of materials…as wells as caring for our organic garden, the bunny, and two guinea pigs!

Weekly visits from the art specialist promote further exploration, enhancing our curriculum.

The preschool hours are from 9 am to 1 pm for children 3 to 5 years of age.

We would love to meet you and your children  for more information check out our website http://www.willowtreepreschool.com or contact Kim at kim@willowtreepreschool.com   Willow Tree will be featured on the katu channel 2 news broadcast Tuesday, August 2^nd during the 5 pm hour. Check it out!

ChildRoots is pleased to announce two new Annex locations! Both locations will open on September 5^th, 2011.  Our new Alberta location site is in the heart of the Alberta arts neighborhood and will care for 16 children with 4 full time teachers.  Our Burnside Annex sits directly accross the street from our main SE Center and will also care for 16 young babies with 4 full time teachers.  

NOW ENROLLING  ~ children born between 6/10 and 6/11.

Here are some of the basics:

Hours of operations:  We are open from 7:15 AM-6:15 PM Monday-Friday. We only enroll children for full day care, with a two day per week minimum. Drop-offs typically happen between 7:30-9:30 and pick-ups between 4:00-5:30. Children may be in care for no longer than 10hrs per day.

Closures: ChildRoots is closed on major federal Holidays and two additional days during the summer and winter for teacher training. 

Meals: All food served at ChildRoots is vegetarian and peanut free. We serve lunch and two snacks daily. Meals are served family style under the “take 5” plan. Each food group (grain, protein, vegetable, fruit, dairy) is served in a separate communal bowl. In this way, children are able to eat more of what they like while cutting down on the waste of what’s not eaten. Children are always encouraged to try at least one bite of everything offered.

We believe that it is important to acquaint children with a variety of foods so that they can develop their palate.

Rest: All children at our center are required to have at least one 45 minute rest period during their time here. Rest periods and patterns vary throughout the center based on age group and classroom dynamic.

Diapering: We use cotton cloth (prefold) diapers with snappable wraps for diapering during center hours. Diapers are changed every 1.5-2hrs, and within 10 minutes of poop detection.

Parents are responsible for providing wipes and”travel” diapers (those worn to and from school each day).

As soon as children are able to walk, we start to incorporate the toilet into diapering time. At first, all that this means is allowing the child to notice the toilet: “That’s the toilet, that’s where we poop and pee…” Then, as we begin to identify signs of readiness, including bladder control, interest, etc., children are encouraged to sit on the potty several times a day.

Primary Care: Each child is assigned a primary care provider – a single teacher who is primarily focused on that child. Primary care providing allows children to build trust and bond more easily with their teachers. While both teachers in a classroom will be aware of and able to meet your child’s needs at any time, knowing that your child has one teacher who is particularly familiar with and tuned into your child’s needs provides you with added security and ease with communication.

Building Cnfidence in young babies: In our infant rooms we are generally inspired by the work of Magda Gerber and her Resources for Infant Educarers (RIE). This means that we respect infants as people – speaking to and treating them as we would older children or adults. Since it is always our goal to allow children the time and space for self-discovery and self learning, we allow infants to develop mobility and other skills at their own pace, never propping them or placing them in a position into which they cannot naturally move their own bodies.

Classroom materials: We believe that children benefit from natural, open-ended, enchanting, dynamic and inspiring materials - toys and environments that intentionally scaffold learning. Toys are rotated on a regular basis to ensure that children are continually challenged by, and engaged in, their environments.

Outdoor play: All children in the center go outside at least once a day, rain or shine. Walking children are usually outside 2-3 times per day, taking walks in the neighborhood or playing in our yard. Small babies are taken on walks in strollers that seat 4.

More: Please go to our website for more details about our schools. www.childroots.com.  To schedule a tour email: creducationaldirector@gmail.com.

 

   

Come check out Woodhaven School's Preschool & Outdoor Kindergarten programs at an Open House:

Saturday, Aug. 6, 2011

3-5 pm

Woodhaven School

11265 SW Cabot Street, Beaverton

Located in the basement of St. Bartholomew's Church (not affiliated)

www.WoodhavenSchool.com

Download a Flyer

(Welcome!)

Apple Blossom Nursery School (ABNS) offers a beautiful and peaceful home setting in southeast Portland, Oregon. We balance our program with activities that support your growing child’s gross and fine motor development, with plenty of time to explore their ever-expanding world. Here at Apple Blossom Nursery School, your child is surrounded with environmentally stimulating and enriching activities balanced with nutritional foods and a sense of community.

** Apple Blossom has expanded its hours this year!

M-F

8-5 for full day

 8-12:30 ½ day

 After care available until 5:30.

We offer full & part time care in inner SE & NE

ABNS is inspired by Waldorf education and specializes in working with children age two and a half to six years of age. Carrie Riley, director, founder and lead teacher of Apple Blossom Nursery School, is a state - and Waldorf - certified teacher with over 20 years experience in child care and 15 years as a lead teacher. She is also state registered. Carrie is mother to three grown children & 4 grandchildren.

Apple Blossom is an ECO certified school. All teachers take yearly continuing education courses to keep up to date on child development knowledge.  AB far exceeds the state mandated 15 hours per year. The average annual training is over 50 hours each!

Of course, all teachers have completed their child CPR & first aide, and a criminal history background check, reference checks & go through a trial 90 day trial period with AB before being hired.

Apple Blossom offers year-round school including aftercare Monday through Friday. We observe the same break schedule as Portland public schools; this includes holidays and inclement weather days.

During the school year we offer delicious homemade organic and vegetarian meals with a focus on nutrition. As the children arrive for school they are welcomed with warm herbal tea and a light breakfast of warm cereal & fruit.

We are state certified. Childcare options in Oregon include exempt family, registered family, certified family, or center care. There are over 5300 child care homes in Oregon. Of that number just 225 are certified homes. There are about 1020 centers. Certified homes are regulated like centers and have many of the same requirements. Every certified home goes through an annual certification process, unannounced visits and is inspected by the childcare division and the county health department. The certifier also observes the staff working with children. Staff in certified homes must have at least one full year of previous childcare experience or college training in early childhood education, child development, or in a related field.

When making your choice, know that going with a certified and licensed home, you are making a best choice there is! It’s a lot of work, but I feel it's worth it for you and your child’s well being.

Waldorf education is about teaching your child to learn through imitation and action. We recognize each child's unique spirit and strive to be worthy of their imitation. Simply put, learning through the head, heart & hands.

We invite you to come see the school and experience the magic!

“We just love, love, LOVE Apple Blossom! The staff, the home, the warmth & love reaches far above what we ever dreamed about for our daughter! She is thriving in their care and we have been with them for over a yr now. She sings happy songs all day long now & that warms our hearts.” JB

“I highly recommend this beautiful program!” RL

“My son loves playing in their beautiful back yard and calls it the “kid jungle”. I like knowing the food he eats there will be thoughtful and nutritious. I have even learned a few new recipes.” MO

Interview with Miss Carrie about Waldorf in the home

Apple Blossom Web Site

*All understanding begins with wonder. – Goethe

Hello Portland parents!

I have been fortunate enough to be a nanny for the last five years and have worked with several wonderful families over that time.  Now it seems that the economic situation is leading many families to forgo the joy of a private nanny in favor of a more economical, but less personal daycare.  But wouldn't the best of both worlds be sharing a nanny with another family?  Your child still gets the personal, individualized care of a nanny, plus the added bonus of a built-in playmate, and you get to pay far less than you would for a private nanny!  If this sounds like the situation for you, please read on!

I am a 27 year old woman with a BFA and a license in Massage Therapy. I have lived in Portland for the last four years after growing up in Texas and spending four years attending university in Canada. I attended a Waldorf school for the entirety of my education before college and I subsequently worked closely with Waldorf teachers in a kindergarten setting. The Waldorf philosophy of childcare and education is deeply ingrained in me and strongly influences my own style with children.

I have been working with children for over twelve years and have experience with kids aged 4 months to 16 years. For the last five years I have been nannying for infants and toddlers so I have a wealth of experience and knowledge to share with first-time parents going through their baby's first couple of years. I would also love to work with preschool aged children. I am a strong believer in the value of free play, story time, art projects, and exploring nature as some of the best activities for children.  I am very hands on with my little ones and committed to helping them through whatever they're dealing with at the time.  I am working hard to care for them even when I'm not with them: thinking up new crafts and songs, looking for new library books or story times, or reading child development books to help me be a better nanny. (In short, my kids are always on my mind!)  I have experience with using breast milk, cloth diapering, cooking healthy meals for little tummies, sleep training, potty training, and baby sign. I am CPR certified and have taken First Aid courses many times over the years. 

Because I want to provide quality childcare that is also affordable, I have decided that I would like to start a nanny share with two families.  I would love to work with families that are gentle and loving, value organic, whole foods over fast food, books over TV, and seek to fill their children with a sense of the spirit that connects us all. They would have a commitment to having as few plastic and battery powered toys in their home as realistically possible and encourage imagination as the greatest toy of all! However, these perfect families would also understand that children need (and actually thrive with) limits and would not have trouble implementing rules, schedules, and routines. They would be families looking not just for an employee, but for a partner in raising their children, and would value my knowledge and experience with children as a resource that they could draw on throughout their parenting journey.

Here are the logistics of what I am looking for:  

-- I would like to work about 3 days a week, around 25-35 hours per week.  I am available Tuesday - Friday.  

-- I would prefer to work in close-in NE Portland, although close-in SE or Downtown may also work.  Ideally the two families would live near each other!  

-- I do not own a car and would strongly prefer a position that does not involve driving. I enjoy taking the kids out for walks in strollers or slings or on their own two legs so it would be great if you lived near a park or other fun activities. I am also very TriMet savvy and regularly take my little ones on bus and MAX adventures to the library, zoo, children's museum, and play dates.  

-- My rate would be $8.50/hour per child. (I charge $13/hour for one child, in case you are not interested in a nanny share!) 

-- The children must be able to nap by themselves (or you must be actively working toward this goal) and both families must be open to putting the children onto the same schedule.

If you are interested in having me as a nanny, please know that I will offer a safe, nurturing environment for your child to learn and grow.  Whether you already know of another family that you would like to share with or not, I'd love to hear from you. The three families that I have already worked with in Portland would be more than happy to talk to you about me. However, these people have become my friends and I am very protective of their privacy; therefore, I will not be handing out their phone numbers until after completing interviews for this position. I am more than happy to send you a complete resume before we meet. Please respond via email with a detailed description of your needs (info about your child, your area of town, hours/days needed, general parenting philosophy/style, if you know another family to share with, etc.) and I will get back to you as soon as I can. 

Thank you for your time and enjoy your search -- your perfect nanny is on her way!

Ausa

nannyausa@gmail.com 

We are looking for a girl to round out our little community for the upcoming school year.

Rowanberry School is a home based mixed-age kindergarten for children ages 3-6. Children may attend Rowanberry School from age 3 to first grade ready.  Our school is inspired by the progressive early childhood programs of Reggio Emilia, Italy, and is influenced by Waldorf early education practices. We are a thriving and diverse community in our 7th year of operation.

For more information about Rowanberry School, or to learn about our summer Art Camp please visit our website: http://rowanberryschool.com/

Rowanberry School is a state certified school. Angela Molloy Murphy, M.Ed., is the director and can be reached at: rowanberryschool@mac.com. or at 

(503) 750-7607