The Little Nest and The Nest are child-centered learning spaces dedicated in fostering the physical, emotional, social, cognitive and creative growth of young hearts and minds. We follow a holistic, humanistic approach to education that encourages children to be fully engaged in their own learning journey.
LITTLE NEST
&
THE NEST ON YORK
Child-centered Learning Spaces
OUR CORE VALUES
Honoring the Whole Child, Mindful Preparation of Environment, Meaningful Connections
We take time for the thoughtful preparation of the environment because we believe that it is an essential element in laying the foundation for a solid, well-rounded learning experience, especially during the formative years. We strive to set an unhurried, calm and engaging atmosphere at our preschool that gives the students time and space to learn at their own pace and in the best way suited for their own learning style.
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The parents and staff of The Little Nest/The Nest see each other as partners in our goal to develop a community of positive, intelligent and dynamic lifelong learners. Together, we become stable support systems for our children and like Maria Montessori, “serve the future by protecting the present."
PREPARED ENVIRONMENT: OUTDOOR CLASSROOM
As the indoors, the outdoor classroom provides lots of opportunities to develop independence and self-direction. Outdoors hold water and sand activities, art, painting, crafts, woodwork and building projects.
There are a number of prepared multi-process jobs that build the children’s sense of order and focus. We enjoy much of the beautiful California weather outside and children are free to move between the indoor and outdoor spaces throughout the work cycle.
PREPARED ENVIRONMENT: INDOOR CLASSROOM
We have created clean, organized areas for Practical Life, Sensorial, Mathematics, Language, Culture, the Sciences (Botany, Geography, etc), Music and Movement fit for a homeschool that is inspired by Montessori.​
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When the children are ready for real food preparation, we welcome them into our open-spaced style kitchen/living room/dining room. The work area is a low wooden table where the children can engage in simple practical life activities such as shelling peas, mashing steamed vegetables, slicing fruits progressing into more complex, hands-on activities such as making bread from scratch or cooking healthy chicken soup for cold days.
PLAYGROUND
Children enjoy the wooden play structure with a trapeze swing bar, monkey bars, climbing rope ladder, steering wheels, slide, and picnic/story time area. We also have a rock climbing and dome structure in the play area that helps develop limb strength, balance and agility. There is also a small spot with bongos, musical rainwheel and a deep Babaloo drum.
NEST'S GARDEN
What better way to learn about vegetables and herbs than being able to plant, harvest, prepare and taste the produce? The garden offers experiential lessons in patience, community, health and nature and more.
SANDBOX
The children's mini world where their imaginations take them to exciting places as they engage in sensory play, community building, spatial skill development and fine motor skill practice.
BUILDING DECK
Our deck has custom-made shelves that hold individual containers for blocks, open- ended materials, puzzles, legos, and other manipulatives.
OUTREACH
Our school values strong home-school-world connections, seeking to make a difference in this world by taking an active role in the improvement of our surroundings. We are each a small part of a bigger whole and our contributions matter.
Little Nest children and their families work together to support various causes and non-profit organizations. We believe that in our little way, our voices and deeds create an impact in other people's lives and the future.
OUR TESTIMONIALS
Lauren W.
"I sent both of my children to Little Nest and I can't imagine anyplace more perfect for our family. Theresa manages to create the perfect combination of warmth, fun, structure, and boundaries. She has a brilliant way of meeting kids exactly where they are and letting them be themselves, but also offering guidance and support toward growth. I just wish my kids could stay at Little Nest for more years!"
Julie S.
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There is no other place like the Nest. This is a small school run by incredibly intelligent, kind people dedicated to helping your child discover and become the best version of themselves. My son entered as a shy two year old and graduated, three years later, with confidence in himself and a feeling of safety in the world. He understands how to navigate conflict, is beginning to read, to understand mathematical and scientific concepts, and to love learning. We have made lasting friends in an amazing community of open minded people. They play, but with intention. They learn emotional regulation, as well as academic subjects. I am so glad I made the decision to bring my child here. We are both better for being part of the Nest community.
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Megan K
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The Nest has been the most ideal Montessori preschool and learning environment for all three of my children. Both my husband and I did a ton of research on preschools in the Northeast LA area, and hands down this was our favorite and the best choice for us. The teachers are all incredibly knowledgeable, loving and patient and our kiddos love them like family members.
The school is beautiful with a huge backyard outdoor space, and the indoor classrooms are impeccably clean and well designed. The food served is healthy, organic and thoughtfully put together.
I honestly can't say enough good things about this school. Beautiful inside and outside with an incredible teaching and learning atmosphere. The teachers work with your child using Montessori principles, and give each child the personalized and special attention that is needed. Also, the parent/teacher communication is fluid and open! It's been the best fit for my three girls. -
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