Echo Park Silverlake Peoples Child Care Center, Los Angeles

Playgroup is a special place where children's unique thinking flourishes. We are an early school made up of educators and families who believe in the importance of developmentally appropriate practices, hands-on learning, arts exposure and social guidance for the youngest of people. Reflecting the ethnic and social-economic diversity of our local community is of paramount importance. All children and families are supported to make meaningful connections with themselves, their peers and the greater community. We view the young child as an intelligent, capable learner. Our early school, is a center for young learners to come together. Children explore ideas and build relationships through art, music, movement and dialogue. We support children's ability to thrive in a social setting, while having the confidence to express their own thinking. Creating a trusting, beautiful and fun environment, filled with many voices and common goals, is what all members of the Playgroup community help to do. Teachers work alongside children, co-building a unique curriculum and environment with every new group of children. Academics are integrated in developmentally appropriate ways. Emphasis is placed on creative problem solving, constant practice and exposure to Arts, Literature, Science and constructive collaboration. Throughout the day there is a balance of open play with children from all ages to age-specific structured small group time. Educators use tools of documentation, such as note taking and video, to reveal children's thought process and extend lines of inquiry/exploration. This documentation is seen throughout the school and used as a tool for school-home connections. From community walks to smoothie-making, healthy living is part of our learning value system. We offer "whole" foods breakfast (from 7-9) as well as seasonal fruits and vegetables for snack time. Parents pack low-sugar lunches for their own child. Specialists in Yoga, Food and Music provide afternoon enrichment activities centered on movement, mind-body awareness and ,of course, fun. Playgroup was founded in 1970 by a group of neighbors who needed affordable child care, Playgroup quickly developed a reputation for excellence under the direction of founder Ruth Beaglehole. Playgroup was incorporated as the Echo Park Silver People's Child Care Center, a non-profit community organization, in 1974. Playgroup was a pioneer in the use of anti-bias curriculum and has been a vocal advocate for children and families throughout its history. Echo Park Silverlake Peoples Child Care Center is a licensed child care center in Los Angeles, CA with the license issued by the L. A. Day Care-East (33). We are a medium-sized center. To learn more about us, please send us an email.