Dandelion Nursery School, Inc

Overview

Dandelion is a parent cooperative preschool that has been part of the Berkeley community since 1972. The program brings together parents and professional teachers to support young children’s play and social development in a group setting for early childhood education.

Approach and curriculum

The school follows a play-based approach in which children learn through hands-on activities and social interaction. Classroom areas are arranged to allow both group activities and individual exploration, with materials and opportunities for art, manipulatives, dramatic play, blocks, music, science and books. Outdoor play and gardening are integrated into daily activity.

Facilities and staff

Open, spacious indoor classroom with designated areas for different types of play and an indoor climbing dome for active play.
Outdoor classroom and garden that provide space for large-motor activities, sand, water play and bike riding.
Staffed by a team of full-time teachers with years of early childhood experience; staff include individuals with postsecondary credentials and early childhood education training.

Family participation

Families participate in classroom support and school operations through regular classroom participation, assigned family jobs, monthly parent meetings, two annual Saturday work parties and fundraising events. The cooperative model emphasizes shared responsibility among parents, teachers and the governing board.

Boring Links

Interesting Links

Dandelion Nursery School, Inc

About

Overview

Approach and curriculum

Facilities and staff

Family participation

Programs

Co-op preschool program

More childcare in Berkeley

Hours

Licensing