If I could give The Grove Academy 10 stars I would. The Grove Academy is nothing short of amazing and magical. Both Tammy and Sarah are very competent in what they do. They have extensive knowledge in childhood development and I would challenge anyone who would say anything otherwise.
The grove is a nurturing environment with an ideal teacher to child ratio 1:4 give or take, it depends on enrollment. No child is ignored, neglected or mistreated. Tammy and Sarah care very much for the children you entrust with them. Each child has a voice. The children are given the tools to learn conflict resolution by using their words.
The preschool is play based with some structure and routine. An example would be the children learn to take responsibility for their belongings. When they arrive to school in the morning they hang up their backpacks, lunch boxes and jackets and then join in the activity Tammy or Sarah have prepared. Then circle time the children are read to, they may sing songs, they may learn about the days of the week and the weather, etc....
The environment of being in the woods is magical. When most children in nursery school these days are cooped up under fluorescent lights these kids are outdoors looking for banana slugs, stomping in puddles, building sand castles, playing house, doing art projects, climbing play structures, playing in the redwoods and sometimes singing in the rain. The indoors is a smaller cozy space. It is bright and has the basics most nursery schools have. Tammy invests in high end equipment, toys and supplies cutting down on toxic exposure.
I have a special needs son who spent the first 3 years of his life in buildings for medical appointments and a plethora of therapy sessions. His needs are that in which he thrives around typically developing children. Finding a school that integrates neurotypical children with special needs children in tough. We had our son in a fine school up in Burlingame but it was indoors with a tiny playground and the commute was tough.
Never in my wildest dreams did I think I would get the phone call inviting my child to attend The Grove. Knowing Tammy and Sarah, their capabilities and their teaching style I jumped on the opportunity. My son is thriving at The Grove Academy. He has made friends and it is also wonderful to be affiliated with like minded parents.
I put my children in the best schools and The Grove Academy is at the top of that list. If you are looking for a drop off, play based school with a small teacher/child ratio, then I highly suggest you tour the school. It is unique to the area and a true gem. It is the type of place where your child will remember the school when they are older. It is the ultimate in preschool experiences. read more