Early Childhood Learning Program
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Full-time
M-F
8 am to 5:30 pm
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Infant
Toddler & Preschool
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Nest Children's Early Learning Program
About Us
Welcome to Nest Children's Early Learning Program
At Nest Children's Early Learning Program, we nurture young minds from infancy through age five, taking a comprehensive approach to child development. Our rich educational environment supports children through each stage of early childhood, preparing them for successful transitions into transitional kindergarten (TK) or kindergarten.
Our Whole Child Approach
We understand that each developmental stage builds upon the last, which is why our program supports growth across all domains:
- Social-emotional development through positive relationships and self-expression
- Physical development through active play and motor skill activities
- Cognitive growth through exploration and problem-solving
- Language development through daily conversations and literacy activities
- Creative expression through art, music, and imaginative play
Building School Readiness
As children progress through our program, we thoughtfully introduce skills that create a strong foundation for future learning:
- Self-help skills that boost independence and confidence
- Social skills for successful peer relationships
- Early literacy and numeracy through engaging activities
- Listening and following directions in group settings
- Critical thinking and problem-solving abilities
- Strong communication skills with both peers and adults
Our experienced educators create engaging spaces where children:
- Build confidence through guided exploration and discovery
- Form meaningful connections with peers and teachers
- Experience the joy of learning through play and structured activities
- Develop at their own pace while reaching important milestones
We understand that early childhood education forms the foundation for lifelong learning. Through thoughtful curriculum design and individualized attention, we help each child develop the skills, curiosity, and love of learning they'll need for future academic success.
Our commitment goes beyond basic education – we're dedicated to creating an environment where children feel safe, valued, and excited to learn something new each day. By partnering with families, we ensure each child receives the support and encouragement they need to thrive at every stage of their early learning journey.
Our Programs
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Infants
6 Months - 20 Months
Toddlers
20 Months - 3 Years
Preschool
3 Years - 5 Years
Our Mission, Philosophy & Values
We celebrate the whole child at Nest Children's Early Learning Program, recognizing that each child is a unique individual with their own distinct abilities, strengths, and needs. Our program draws inspiration from renowned child development experts including Magda Gerber, John Bowlby, and Lev Vygotsky. We've thoughtfully integrated elements from multiple respected approaches – Educare (RIE), the Outdoor Classroom Project, and Reggio Emilia – to create our own distinctive learning environment that honors each child's individual journey.
Our foundation in Magda Gerber's RIE (Resources for Infant Educarers) approach emphasizes respect for even our youngest children. We see infants and toddlers as capable, confident explorers who deserve our full attention during care moments and uninterrupted play time. This philosophy guides us to observe carefully, interact authentically, and provide an environment that encourages natural development.
John Bowlby's attachment theory informs our understanding of the crucial importance of secure relationships in early childhood. We prioritize building strong, trusting bonds between caregivers and children, creating an emotional safe haven that supports confident exploration and learning.
Vygotsky's social development theory comes to life in our classrooms through thoughtfully guided learning experiences. We recognize the vital role of social interaction in cognitive development and create opportunities for children to learn from both peers and skilled adult guidance.
The Outdoor Classroom Project influences our commitment to nature-based learning. We believe that regular, meaningful outdoor experiences are essential for children's physical, emotional, and cognitive development. Our outdoor spaces are carefully designed to encourage exploration, risk-taking, and connection with the natural world.
From the Reggio Emilia approach, we embrace the image of the child as strong, capable, and resilient. We value children's natural curiosity and their hundred languages of expression. Our environment serves as the "third teacher," thoughtfully prepared to inspire investigation and creativity.
This unique blend of approaches allows us to:
- Honor each child's individual pace of development
- Create rich environments that invite exploration and discovery
- Support deep connections between children, teachers, and families
- Foster independence while maintaining secure emotional bonds
- Encourage both individual and collaborative learning experiences
- Document children's growth and learning journeys
- Maintain a balance between child-led and teacher-guided experiences
Team
Dedication. Expertise. Passion.
Kathy Salinas Y.
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With an impressive 27 years of experience in the field of early childhood education, I have developed a deep understanding of the vital role that connection plays in nurturing young minds. My journey in this rewarding profession has been guided by a commitment to supporting children during the critical first five years of their development, a period that lays the foundation for their future learning and growth.
As the former proud owner of Nuestra Casita Nursery, I cultivated an environment where children felt safe, valued, and inspired to explore. My extensive experience in various center-based programs has equipped me with a diverse skill set and a comprehensive understanding of the unique needs of young learners. I take in my ability to create engaging and developmentally appropriate curricula that meet the individual needs of each child.
Moreover, my program adheres to all licensing requirements set forth by the state of California, ensuring that families can trust in the quality and safety of the educational experience I provide. I am dedicated to empowering both children and their families, fostering a community where everyone can thrive and flourish together.
Throughout my work, I aim to inspire a love of learning that lasts a lifetime, nurturing the potential within every child.
