Philosophy

Crestwood Hills Cooperative Nursery School encourages and supports personal and social growth of children with programs that are caring and attentive to their needs. Our philosophy is based on respect for the uniqueness and dignity of each individual. We are fortunate to be located in a spacious, rustic environment where children can create their own world with a minimum of adult intervention.

     This approach to preschool allows children the freedom to experience their own creativity, to explore their world and to develop their inner strengths and resources. Mutual respect and cooperation are encouraged, as well as socializing, problem-solving and, of course, fun. The role of the adult in this environment is to assist and guide with minimum intervention rather than direct or entertain.
      It is our belief that children who experience this philosophy delight in their sense of independence and accomplishment, accept responsibility and like and respect themselves and others. These children will continue to explore and discover with confidence and enthusiasm and have a strong foundation for further academic success.

Programs
     Within a carefully structured environment, the children learn to make choices from a wide variety of creative materials, including paint, clay, blocks, puzzles, musical instruments, dolls and other toys which lend themselves to imaginative and fantasy play. On our large playground, big wheels, climbing structures and swings help develop large muscle coordination. Our beautiful rustic environment includes animals, a garden and a natural hillside with a hiking path. The day includes art projects, stories, music, outside play and many other creative activities.  Nutritious snacks are provided by the working parents.. Our program is also supplemented by visits from a music teacher, hiking up our own trail, exploring and working in our garden, investigating the many wonders of science, and explorations of the world of nature.
     Crestwood Hills Cooperative Nursery School is accredited by National Academy of Early Childhood Programs (NAECP). We are also licensed by the Department of Social Services of  the State of California and the County of Los Angeles Department of Health Services. We are members of the California Council of Parent Participatory Nursery Schools.
     We offer four separate classes, each of which is staffed by dedicated and experienced teachers, assistants, and volunteer working parents. Each of these classes is designed to reflect the Crestwood Hills Cooperative philosophy and address problem-solving, conflict resolution, decision making and self help skills.
     The morning program (9:15 - 12:00) is divided into two classes determined by age and emotional readiness. The younger group is comprised of children who are in the 3 year old age range. The older class is made up of children who tend to be in the 4 year old age range.
    The afternoon mixed age program (12:15 - 3:00) serves the needs of children who are typically in the 3 to 4 year age range. The greater age spread in this group provides a unique opportunity for the children to experience the benefits of a "family style" setting.
    The extended year program (12:15 - 3:00) is for 5 to 6 year olds who are eligible for kindergarten or whose birth dates miss the cut off dates for kindergarten. This class is designed for children whom we and/or parents feel would benefit from an extra year of nursery school. It offers age-appropriate activities without the academic demands of many kindergartens.

Toddler Program

     Our toddler program is on Fridays (9:30 - 11:30 and 12:30 - 2:30). The program is designed for children who are toddling (i.e. in the early stages of walking). It varies for each child, but in general children are ready for the Toddler Program when they are around 9 to 14 months old. Your child may remain in Toddler until s/he starts pre-school (generally around 2 ½ -3 years). They provide a social experience where young children and their parents can spend time with other children and parents. They include art activities, music and snack. A focal point of the program is a teacher-led parent discussion about child development issues. The toddler program meets at the park at Crestwood Hills Recreational Center, which is right next to the school. Summer toddler session is held on Fridays at the preschool.
    For more information about the Toddler Program, read Toddler Program FAQs.  To apply for the Crestwood Hills Cooperative Nursery School, print and complete the Toddler Application.

Schedule

Tuition
     Our school is a year-round school and tuition for 2007/2008 is $6,200 per year. There is a 2.5% discount for those paying by check or by auto-debit.  Tuition may be paid in one, four or ten payments.

Financial Aid
     Partial or full financial aid is available through the office and is generally based on need.