I will be forever grateful that my child got to experience the magic of Village Playgarden for two years, and even five years later (he just turned 10!), he still wistfully recalls even the most minute details of the love and joy he felt there in the respectful, developmentally focused care of Ms. Kikanza and Papa Geoff. From feeding the goats to swinging high up in the sky amidst the oaks, he developed a reverence for nature, and a sense of wonder, learned how to be in community with others, and listened to stories that fed his soul. From hikes on the forest trails to collecting eggs from the chickens, from digging in the dirt to helping prepare the fresh vegan meals, to sewing pouches for treasures like acorns found along the way, it was childhood as it should be. Thank you, VPG! I should add that I know that the campus is in a new place now, but I also know that with Papa Geoff leading the way, the heart of the school, and the deep respect for children will always be there. read more

Village Playgarden Preschool - Feeding the goats at VPG - Preschools Near Me - Arcadia, California

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We cherish our time at Village. It's meant so much to our family. Yes, it was a terrific school for our little but it was really also a place for us as parents to grow and truly grasp what it means to BE parents in today's culture without sacrificing the values of the past that we hold dear. Ms. Molly's parenting classes, and all the community gatherings, where we could speak so openly and freely about the challenges of parenting were life changing. Our little one has such a foundation of love of community, kindness to all, generosity, love of nature, and brave and fiery spirit that was truly NURTURED & FOSTERED at Village. Best of all, this place has a sense of humor about it. We used to joke that it's Waldorf Light, or Waldorf but willing to crack a joke. Geoff and the whole crew are all super down to Earth, maybe the downest to earth in some ways. Always felt like we could come to them about anything, and we wouldn't be judged even if we were challenging the existing norms. We could truly bring ourselves, and they met us where we were, just like they say they're doing for the kids. Honestly, I wish I went to school here. read more

Village Playgarden is a truly special community, and we feel so fortunate to have discovered it. The teachers are incredibly attuned to young children and deeply knowledgeable in Waldorf education. Our son is cared for with genuine warmth and thoughtful attention, and we've seen him flourish in ways that speak to the care and intention behind everything the school represents. The magic the teachers bring has carried over beautifully to the school's new location at Barnhart, where Waldorf-inspired toys and classroom, a nurturing environment, and meaningful outdoor time enrich each day. The rhythms of the day, the gentle guidance, and the deep respect for childhood have made a lasting impact not only on our son but on our whole family. We are endlessly grateful to be part of such a heart-centered and mindful community. read more

We couldn't be more grateful for the time our daughter spent at Village Playgarden! From day one, it was clear this was more than just a preschool--it was a community rooted in wonder, respect, and connection to nature. Every day was an adventure. Whether they were building fairy houses in the woods, observing bugs up close, splashing through puddles, or learning about the changing seasons, our daughter came home full of stories, confidence, and curiosity. The teachers are incredible--nurturing, patient, and deeply attuned to each child's growth. You can tell they truly love what they do. We saw our daughter thrive socially, emotionally, and creatively in ways we hadn't even expected. She developed a real love for the outdoors, gained resilience, and made beautiful friendships along the way. If you're looking for a preschool that values exploration, imagination, and kindness over worksheets and screens, this is it. We're so thankful this magical place was part of her early years. read more

A Magical Start at Village Playgarden Our daughter attended Village Playgarden from ages 4 to 6, and I can honestly say it was one of the most meaningful chapters in her early life--and in ours as parents. From the moment we joined the community, it was clear this wasn't just a preschool. It was a place where each child is deeply seen, celebrated, and supported for exactly who they are. At Village Playgarden, our daughter wasn't rushed through milestones or squeezed into a mold. She was met with patience, kindness, and a deep respect for her individuality. Whether she was immersed in nature play, storytelling, baking, or painting, the environment invited her to grow in confidence, wonder, and connection. Now that we've moved on, I can see how powerfully those years shaped her. She still talks about her time there with so much joy. The rhythms, the friendships, the way she was held by her teachers--it all left a lasting imprint. If you're looking for a preschool where your child will be known, nurtured, and truly seen, I can't recommend Village Playgarden enough. read more

Village Playgarden is all that I didn't know I wanted and everything my precious little boy needs. The supportive ever-pleasantly positive nature of the teachers has been reassuring to this new mom. Thanks to their guidance both of us, parent and child, have gone from fret and tears to joy at what adventures may lie ahead during the hours we are apart....preparing foods...celebrating cycles and seasons...allowing the magic of storytelling and the power of just being human to light the way. My little one enthusiastically shares and cleverly teases about his days creations and interactions with friends. (all while my heart smiles and soul sings) Village Playgarden has become family. Through the brilliant, intuitive and insightful Miss Molly they offer ongoing support with understanding stages, interpreting behaviors and how to nurture healthy mental and physical development. Their new Barnhart location is peaceful, serene and conveniently located making morning dropoffs and afternoon pickups quick and easy. There are multiple play yards, green spaces and a flock of peacocks across the campus. The VPG team have worked their magic turning an already quaint space into a lush land ripe for adventure and discovery. read more

Our experience at Village playground has been nothing short of magical. We searched numerous schools in Los Angeles for our daughter, 20 to 30 at least to find one that aligned with our ethos and values system. The school is incredible in the fact that it teaches children by allowing nature and play to take the lead. The curriculum puts a huge emphasis on emotional intelligence as a foundational building block. The original campus had acres of farmland and an entire forest within the compound that had chickens, goats, and horses. Since the fires, the new school has been a true gift. It has allowed village play garden to maintain its sovereignty and change the part of the campus the children encompass into something they are familiar with. There is already a new form being scheduled to be planted, and natural building courses in the works. This has been a true testament to resilience, and how to preserve a path of purpose when all else is turned to ash. We are eternally grateful to be a part of this community! read more

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I really can't say enough great things about this school, but I will try! Village Playgarden has been a godsend for our family. My oldest son has been attending for two years, and my youngest will start in the fall. The teachers and administration are some of the kindest people I've come across. There is a genuine community built into this school that is incredibly rare. It's a place where families hang out after pickup and drop-off, where you can stop by and feed a few acorns to the goats before you head home for the day. Each classroom hosts a potluck and meeting every couple of months, where families get together to eat, chat and connect. They host some really great parenting workshops, it's a place where learning opportunities are endless. The school hosts community farm days where children work to grow new produce that they will then eat as part of their meals. Speaking of meals, they have a wonderful chef who makes a homemade, nutritious lunch that all of the children eat together, family style. They also provide two snacks, which is so wonderful (not only because mornings are so much better without prepping a lunch!) but it encourages the children to try new foods they may not otherwise go for. The teachers in all three classrooms (Skylane, Canon and Forest) are absolutely incredible, they foster the sweetest traditions (saying a blessing to mother earth before meals, learning about composting, baking bread, knitting) - the list is endless. We absolutely love the care and comfort provided by Ms Molly, Ms Vilma, Ms Satya, Ms Christine, Ms Jasmine, and Ms Ellie. I always take note of the gentle, loving ways they interact with the children so that I can try and replicate it at home. The land plays such an integral role in the school, from the tasting garden which has delicious fruit trees the children can sample, to the magical play areas with all wooden climbing structures and slides. Deer frequently scamper by and just about every native animal you can think of pays a visit. It really doesn't feel like you are in LA. When new animals are born, like baby goats, the whole school takes notice and the children really love to watch them grow and thrive. It's a truly magical place, one that we cherish. We couldn't be happier here! read more

It is hard for me to boil this review down to a concise paragraph. I really want to take you reader, by the hands, sit you down and go on and on about this beautiful school, the amazing staff, and the life changing experiences our family has had through their exquisite community. Our lives are forever changed by the beautiful people we have met here. Our son went from a child who couldn't leave his mama, to resilient and free (in just 2 years)! We gleaned so much from Ms. Molly's parenting classes. We worked on the land, camped, hiked, and had the most delicious potlucks I've ever had! Truly! We really came into ourselves as parents at this amazing school. I am in eternal gratitude to Village Playgarden and Geoff, Kikanza and their family for their dedication to these children. read more

I am so grateful that Village Playgarden exists. In my search for a preschool for my two year old, I found it surprisingly difficult to locate a program that actually values the unique stages of childhood development. Village Playgarden was the answer. My daughter has been with Ms Christine and Ms Jasmine since 2021, during which she has been nurtured and supported in her growth. Ms Christine brings a certain magic to her approach with children. She leads with curiosity and utilizes storytelling, creativity, and play as a way of learning while supporting each child's true nature as it unfolds. She truly meets the children where they're at and gently guides them in their growth. Both Ms Christine and Ms Jasmine have encouraged my daughter's imagination and creativity in ways that have grown her confidence and character. Village Playgarden has been a grounding force in my daughter's young years and she is now aging out of the program. While we are excited for all that comes with Elementary School, I'm sad to leave the natural beauty, community, and loving care that comes with Village Playgarden. read more

The most magical start to childhood. There are few places in the world that feel as sacred, loving and aligned as this school. When we found Village Playgarden, I knew it was the only place I wanted my daughter Ocean to begin her journey outside of home.. It wasn't just a school, it was a true extension of our home and values. Surrounded by the rhythms of nature, Ocean was able to experience childhood in the most grounded, joyful, imaginative way. The teachers are pure hearted, deeply present and truly see each child for who they are. Each day was filled with intention, from the songs and stories to the gardening, crafting and wholesome meals. This school isn't just a hidden gem, it's a real treasure! If you're looking for a place where your child will be nurtured emotionally, spiritually and creatively, where they'll be connected to the earth and guided with love, this is it! We are forever grateful. read more

Our daughter joined Village Playgarden at just under three years of age as a very shy, sensitive kid and was immediately lit up by the teaching style and community ethos of this school. The teachers took the time to understand and meet her where she was, and she has thrived in their care every day since. Also having a speech delay, she really found her voice and enjoyment in the company of other kids in this environment, with its focus on our connection to the earth and each other. We have been through the loss of our homes and school together this past year - Miss Christine, Miss Vilma, Miss Jasmine and Miss Danielle have all been such an important part of what stayed consistent for her through turbulent times. We love this school and community and recommend it with our whole hearts! read more

From the very beginning, Ms. Christine and Ms. Jasmine have created such a warm, nurturing environment for our daughter. It means so much to us that they've been with the program for many years--their experience and steady presence really shine through. Our daughter looks forward to going to school and especially loves the cooking, craft activities and all the time spent playing outside. The daily rhythm, with plenty of imaginative free play and restful breaks in between, means she comes home in a great mood. The new location at Barnhart has been great. You can tell how much care and thought goes into making it a beautiful, engaging space for the kids. We have loved our experience at Village Playgarden, and feel lucky to be part of this special community. read more

This place is pure magic. Visiting the campus for the first time in the beautiful foothills of Altadena, my first thought was: "This is what childhood should look like." A reverence for the slow pace of children, friendships, and enriching love and connection to nature. I love that my child is fed healthy foods in an organic environment with fresh air. Ms. Christine and Ms. Jasmine bring their whole heart to school every day and care for their children like they're their own. The home environment that they nurture, allows me to leave my son with the knowledge that he is well-cared for. Truly, a rare find! read more

As a dad, I cannot express enough how much Village Playgarden has enriched my family's life. From the moment we stepped onto the grounds, we knew this was a special place for our children. The emphasis on interaction with nature and animals is something that truly sets this school apart. Watching our kids explore and learn in such a natural environment has been incredibly rewarding. The care and attention that the teachers provide at Village Playgarden is truly remarkable. It's clear that they love what they do and are dedicated to each child's development. For us, knowing that our children are in such capable hands is the next best thing to having them with us. The daily rhythm that the children follow has been incredibly grounding for our family. Our child feels safe, seen, and heard in this environment, and we've seen them thrive and grow as a result. They serve nutritious clean food each day and our child comes home telling us about the delicious new foods they ate. It's amazing to see how much our child has flourished since starting at Village Playgarden. I'd recommend Village Playgarden a million times over to any parent considering this school. read more

I LOVE VILLAGE PLAYGARDEN WITH ALL MY HEART! My son was at this Waldorf-inspired school when he was 4 years old and he absolutely loved it. He had Miss Christine and Ms. Kikanza Ramsey-Ray as teachers. He then went to Summer Camp with Papa Geoff for a couple of years after that. So Fun. Whenever he would come back muddy or have sand in his shoes, I knew he had a fulfilling day. They dug in the sandbox, fed goats, gardened, hiked, sang songs, everything you would want your little to do at that age! It is the most beautiful preschool and what a HIDDEN GEM in Los Angeles! The teachers are soo intentional in how they lead the class and soo gentle and sweet. Now, whenever he sees Sour Grass growing anywhere, he will just grab it and start eating it! How many people even know what that is! I love the community and we will always be a part of it. I can't imagine a better place for the littles. read more

Choosing Village Playgarden for our son was one of the best decisions we have made for him and honestly, for us as parents too. It is a beautiful community that has enriched all of our lives. We love how VPG's Waldorf education is intentionally play based, holistic and tends to the development of the whole child. The growth that we have seen in our son, both socially and creatively, has been remarkable. The school provides healthy food and also has a farm with farm animals on campus that the children help care for. The mountains and landscape that are the backdrop to the classroom are incredibly peaceful, serene and grounding. As someone who was very hesitant to leave my child in the care of others, Ms. Christine and Ms. Jasmine have surpassed my expectations as his primary teachers. They are very attentive to our children and always provide such valuable feedback to us, they are always willing to make time to talk through anything I'd like to discuss about my son, and they are dedicated to creating beauty and a sense of awe within the classroom. The other teachers I've encountered are very special as well. Ms. Molly leads parenting classes every year that are invaluable! We have grown as parents, our community has expanded in a beautiful way, and I am eternally grateful for VPG. So happy my son can learn and grow here through age 7. read more

I found out about the school via my parenting class when I was 10 months post partum. The fact that it was started by a Black woman who was a frontline activist who pivoted her work and her husband's activism to child development. Their methodology is evidence based, the teachers keep up their training. The children are happy. When i drop my kid off to school, i get to feel relaxed, happy, cause i stay and watch children playing, free, happy and taken care of. The teachers love what they do, they are paid well and it is a true community. read more

My 3 yr old has been going to VPG for 2 years now. Ms Christine and Ms Jasmine are thoughtful, caring, and attentive teachers. My son loves his friends and the curriculum. I highly endorse this school and it's staff. I'm relieved he'll be apart of the school for years to come. read more

Pure love and respect for all children and parents. This place will have an overwhelmingly positive and lasting impact on your child and your family. Wow!!! So amazing. The teachers are so caring and attentive, the setting is amazing and we have nothing but joyful feelings to report. Grateful we found Village Playgarden. As an alum parent I can wholeheartedly recommend this school for any family that loves their child and celebrates human dignity. Having read the sparse one star reviews riddled with here-say and nagging helicopter style parenting remarks I can only imagine the entitlement and narcissism being cultivated and passed down from the authors to their kids. The students at Village Playgarden are celebrated, nurtured and they are thriving. read more

I absolutely love this community and all of the work the founders have put in to building such a beautiful environment for our children. I've seen so much growth in my daughter. Her personality has really come through as she thrives in this safe and loving community. Ms. Christine and Ms. Jasmine have been such supportive, gentle, loving guides and are just lovely. The parenting classes provided by Geoff, Kikanza & Ms. Molly have been such wonderful tools and experiences. They've helped prepare me to better communicate observe, and nurture, my daughter as she develops through the toddler years. All of the other families have been so warm and supportive as well. I highly recommend this wonderful nursery school to anyone, seeking a holistic, gentle and organic way that is built on community and compassion that diversifies and awakens the hearts of us all. read more

My two children have been at VPG for almost 1 year and I can honestly say Kikanza, Geoff, Christine, Ellie, Molly, Jasmine, Vilma and the rest of the team have created the most magical, intentional and loving environment for every child there. They value community deeply and foster that in the children. My children are flourishing at VPG, they teach us a new fact about nature and the environment almost every day and love that they get to explore the outdoors most of the day. VPG is a community that listens to one another, learns from one another and grows together and I'm deeply grateful for this community and all the incredible friendships I've made since joining. read more

My experience with the Village Playgarden is mixed. I love their concept and the space where they are located. They seem to be dedicated to what they do. My negative experience comes from me signing up for a summer camp and then having to withdraw a week later because I found a different place that didn't have a wait list. Before withdrawing I asked them if I would receive a refund and they said yes and that someone would reach out to me with the details. No one reached out and I was given a partial refund. Turns out their materials and food deposit (which can go way over $1000 for the summer camp program) is completely nonrefundable. It doesn't say so on the payment doc you fill out. It's mentioned in the packet they send. I was hoping for some understanding because I did reach out asking about a refund and was under an impression I would get all of my money back. I also withdrew weeks before the camp started and not that long after signing up, but no understanding there. My experience with them ended on them charging me (accidentally) for the second month of the summer camp which left a large sum of money frozen for days on my account. No accountability when it comes to their mistakes, but very strict with the parents. read more

My daughter spent the summer here last summer and while the space and concept is great, I'm not so sure about the care and I did not feel comfortable leaving my daughter there as she was clingy and did not want me to ever leave (my daughter has never been like that at her other 2 schools she has attended). Being curious as to why she was clingy I would come a bit early for pick up but stay out of view for a couple of minutes to observe the teachers and found they were quite rude with the kids on several occasions. Twice I heard the teacher scolding a kid and saying things like "sit down right now" very firmly and stern which is not how they advertise their program. Several times when I was still at drop off my daughter would be chatting away and the teachers were totally disinterested and frankly annoyed that she was talking. My husband noticed this too and asked me to pull her out of the school. Our daughter's teachers were not the owners (she had Christine and other floater teachers). If you send your kids I advise to observe so you can ensure they are sweet and kind with the kids. This is the only summer camp my daughter has adamantly told me she does not want to return to. read more

This is an amazing community. It is also a loving, nurturing, and wondrous preschool. I mention those two things because this place is a lot more than just a school. Those familiar with the school, the family who runs it, and the community know that the school will be expanding into a micro-farm and holistic community resource in some years. There are no "academics" here. Our kiddos get to play with chickens, tumble over haystacks, knit their own jump ropes, and play in the mud. It's like going to school in the forest and being watched over by family. The children learn to be mindful and compassionate friends. Because there are only 14 children on any given day, and 20 children in the entire school (rotating days/schedules), it is a tight-knit place. We all learn to accept each other's unique personalities and lend a hand when and where we can. We truly feel lucky to have found this place. What the negative reviewer said is probably true; there is far more interest in this school than there are spaces and the director is very busy tending to the children and organizing our community. Being patient as a prospective parent, and understanding, is probably a prerequisite to joining this community anyways. I hope that every parent finds a place that feels "right" to them. For those who feel like this might be a home away from home for their children, I encourage you to visit the community events, like the Winter Market, which will be posted on the webpage and during which there is a meet-and-greet for interested families. That's also a great time to learn about the info session, etc. If you know a family at the school, that's also a great way to learn more. read more

My son attended Village Playgarden for 2 years and we couldn't have been happier with the care and education he got under the patient eyes of Kikanza, Geoff and Christine. As new arrivals in LA, we feel incredibly lucky to have found not only a great preschool but a wonderful community of families that have become our friends. Things we love about VPG: the mixed-age class, so kids have experience being both the "little kids" and the older leaders the commitment to natural, developmentally-appropriate play that doesn't overwhelm childrens' sensitive souls the healthy, home-made, vegetarian lunches and snacks provided (my child ate better than I did!) the magical outdoor play yard with chickens and rabbits and turtles the use of non-violent communication, which starts from the premise that any child's misbehavior is actually an attempt to communicate that a need isn't being met, so the best way to resolve conflict is to try to defuse the situation and then figure out what is really going on for the child rather than just punish I could go on and on! I don't know how we managed to luck out by getting into this preschool, but I am so grateful that we did. read more

Highly recommend it. This is a place where children are taught how to be kind to themselves, have their feelings acknowledged and respected while they're gently guided in learning how to release them. There is no labeling of good or bad, just accepting children for being children. I've seen many parents not wanting to leave after they dropped off their children because the grounds are so peaceful. This preschool makes me wish I was still little and could attend it myself. read more

I was excited when I found this preschool while doing a search of local Pasadena preschools. Everything listed on the website was exactly what I was looking for so I reached out to the teacher/owner. A few days went by and I was informed of the first step, which was essentially a mandatory tour. Unfortunately I would be out of town that weekend and asked when the next one would be. Nearly 1 week went by and no response. I emailed her again and received a response that was odd since it didn't answer my question. The email reiterated the first step in the process and that there was only one tour a year but this second one was added due to high demand. I responded with my original question and clarified that this was for 2014 not 2013. Another couple days went by and no response. I called the preschool but got voicemail - I left a message. More than 1 week went by and I got another email from the teacher/owner. She was asking if I was going to attend the tour. It was obvious to me that she missed the fact that we had already been exchanging emails. I reminded her of who I was and asked her again when the next tour was. I never heard from her again. Even though my child is not enrolled here this is horrible customer service. Blowing off prospective students is no way to run a school. read more