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Good to Know
EAST BAY PRIVATE SCHOOL GUIDE
The 2024/25 edition of The East Bay Private School Guide is available and is filled with information on how to help parents navigate the process of finding the best private school for their child. This guide has information on prioritizing what are the most important factors for your family, determining what type of school to consider, navigating
4 Tips to Keep Baby’s Safe During Sleep
By Adina Kisilinsky, Children’s Hospital Injury Prevention Department
October is Safe Sleep and Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) Awareness Month, so we wanted to review what SIDS and safe sleep are, how to reduce risk for SIDS, and what parents can do to ensure safe sleep.
What is Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) and Sudden Unexpected Infant Death (SUID)
SSUID is used to describe a sudden and unexpected death of a child under the age of 1 where the cause of death is not clear until after investigation. SIDS is an unexplained infant death occurring during sleep, often attributed to suffocation or entrapment causing lack of oxygen. SUID is a more general term which encompasses SIDS and any other deaths from unknown causes. While SIDS can occur any time during the first year of life, it is most common in infants up to 6 months. Infants are at risk for two primary reasons. First, their mobility is still very limited, so they are not able to free themselves if their face and airway becomes blocked with blankets or if they end up face down. Second, infants have an immature respiratory system and a slower arousal response to awaken and respond, meaning if they get too warm because they are sleeping too close to a parent or pillow, it can cause rebreathing carbon monoxide and they may not even wake up to cry out before it is too late.
How can we prevent SUID/SIDS?
There are 3,400 babies that die from a SUID related cause each year in the United States. Not all occurrences of SUID are preventable, however there are several steps parents and caregivers can take to significantly reduce a baby’s risk. One of the key elements is ensuring a safe sleep environment for your baby.
IS AVAILABLE!
admissions tours, shadow days, interviews, needed exams, tuition assistance and writing a great essay. Use the month-by-month guide to keep your family on the admissions track to getting accepted to the school of your choice. Available in print and online at www. ParentsPress.com – just click on “Our Magazines” tab.
Here are 4 things you can do to make sure your baby is sleeping safe:
1Crib: Make sure your baby’s crib has a firm mattress with a fitted sheet. Never use blankets, pillows, or bumper pads and make sure nothing is covering the baby’s head. The crib should also be free of small objects that the baby could get near or in their mouth, such as toys or stuffed animals
2Position: Your baby should always sleep lying flat on their back until at least 1 year of age. Do not prop them on their side or place them face down.
3 Sleepwear: Dress your baby appropriately for the weather, do not overdress them. Additionally, only dress the baby in a wearable blanket, onesie, or other sleep clothing for infants.
4 Room Environment: Babies should never sleep in an adult bed, on a couch, or on a chair; neither alone nor with someone. Babies should always sleep in a crib or bassinet, not in bed with the parents or caregivers. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends room sharing for the first 6 months, but never bed sharing between a baby and their parents or caregivers. Instead, bring the crib or bassinet into the room.
Good to Know
ONLINE SCHOOL ADMISSION EVENTS CALENDAR
What better way to keep track of all the Bay Area preschool and private school’s admission events than this handy tool! With over 50 schools & preschools participating, check out the Online Open House & Admissions Calendar on ParentsPress.com. Look for the School Open Houses button on the main header bar and tap. Don’t forget to tell them you saw their event on https://parentspress.com
14 Tips to Stay Safe and have a Happy Halloween!
Halloween is one of the most fun holidays for children. It gives them a chance to break away from their “every day self” to become their favorite princess, super hero or cartoon character for the night. Through all the fun and games, Halloween is also known to have the potential of becoming one of the most injurious holidays. Most of these injuries are preventable, so before heading out to Halloween parties and trick or treating this season, be sure your children have taken all the safety measures possible!
• Children should never carve pumpkins on their own. Have them participate by drawing the face they want on the pumpkin and have an adult do the cutting.
• Avoid lighting your pumpkin with a candle. Instead use a flashlight or battery-operated candle to avoid a potential fire in the home.
• When choosing a costume, be sure all parts are flame resistant.
• Before leaving the house, be sure your child’s costume is equipped with reflective stickers or attachments and that they are carrying a flashlight or glow sticks, so that cars can see them better when crossing the street.
• Be sure your child’s costume is not obstructing their view of the road and that it is free of tripping hazards.
• Always accompany your children when trick or treating. No matter how friendly the neighborhood, children should never be out without adult supervision.
• Be sure to always cross the street at corners and on crosswalks. Though it may be tempting for children to run from house to house, they must
still adhere to the rules of the road to avoid potential hazards.
• When crossing the street, you and your children should avoid looking at any electronic devices, and always look left, right, left before stepping out into the street.
• Always walk on the sidewalk and stay on well-lit streets. If there is no sidewalk, be sure to walk facing traffic, with your children on the inside of the road.
• Walk pass driveways and parking lots slowly and carefully in case cars are entering or exiting.
• Have an emergency plan set up with your child before leaving the house and be sure your child is familiar with calling 911 in case of an emergency.
• When returning home, be sure to check your child’s candy before allowing them to eat any.
• If you child has a food allergy, be sure to read all labels to ensure it is free of any hazardous ingredients to them.
• Ration your child’s treats to avoid them consuming too much sugar and potentially becoming ill. Y
By Elena Epstein, Director of the National Parenting Product Awards
LETTER TRACING SENSORY PAD
Learn how to form lowercase and uppercase letters with this multisensory pad. Filled with a thick, movable gel, this provides a great tool for kids to practice letter formation while strengthening their finger muscles and developing fine motor skills. $19.99, ages 2+, www.hand2mind.com
TINY COLLECTIONCHARLOTTE THE DOG
Handcrafted with exquisite details. Each doll comes nestled in a tiny home adorned in beautifully hand painted watercolor wildflowers. Each doll provides 10 meals to kids in need. $44, ages 3+, www.cuddleandkind.com
INSPIRING QUOTES FROM CHILDREN’S CLASSICS
Features 162 of the best passages from historical and modern classics, including “Where the Wild Things Are,” “The Hobbit” and “The Bridge to Terabithia.” Divided into 18 themes like ‘being different”, “forgiveness” and “curiosity.” Includes fresh illustrations that bring each quote to life. $12.99, ages 6+, www.read.sourcebooks.com
NAPPA Awards has been celebrating the best in family products for 34 years. For more product reviews and gift ideas visit nappaawards.com
FLIPSLIDE
A fast-moving matching electronic handheld game. Can you master the moves to beat the blocks? Flip to find the color and slide to match the lights. Challenge yourself or play with friends. $19.99, ages 4+, www.moosetoys.com
DISNEY JUNIOR SPLASH & GLOW ARIEL DOLL
The gorgeous mermaid music and light-up toy features lots of ways to play. Press on the shell necklace to hear fun sound effects and the theme song from Disney Junior’s hit show, Ariel. In the tub or at the pool, immerse Ariel’s tail in water. $39.99, ages 3+, www.justplayproducts. com
TMNT LEO’S ROLL OVER RC
Featuring classic-inspired Leonardo driving his rugged Buggy, this RC vehicle is geared up for actionpacked adventures. Built for stunts and excitement + designed to make sharp turns, buggy roll overs, and has the ability to land back on its wheels to keep the action going. $34.99, ages 6-11 years, www.teenagemutantninjaturtles.funrise.comyears Y
EHalloween Festivities Around the Bay
very year I scour the internet looking for a full month’s worth of Halloween activities to take my kids to so we can wear our costumes many times and get all the items on our Halloween bucket list checked off. Pumpkin patch, check. Corn Maze, check. Trick or Treating, check. Spooky stories, check! This year, my enthusiastic list-making is to the reader’s benefit. If anyone loves Halloween as much as I do, take notice, because I’m about to spell it out. These are my eight do-not-miss Halloween festivities for 2024!
HALLOWEEN JAM –CHILDREN’S FAIRYLAND
Join in on two weekends, October 19-20 from 10 am. to 4 pm and October 26-79, 10 am. to 5 pm, for decked out sets and rides, spook-tacular performances and activities at the Emerald City Stage, costumed characters, bouncy houses, and plenty of photo opportunities. It’s going to be bubbling over with eerie-sistible cuteness! All ages. Children’s Fairyland, 699 Bellevue Ave., Oakland. 510-2386876, www.fairyland.org
4TH STREET HALLOWEEN PARADE & TRICK OR TREAT
Berkeley’s 4th Street with over 80 merchants are open to trick or treating for those kids who are too tiny to stay up late but still want to show off their costumes. Participating merchants will have a marking on or above their doors to let revelers know where the candy is. There will be live music, entertainment, even a few treats and free samples for grownups. 3-5 pm. 10/31. 4th St., at Hearst, Berkeley. www.fourthstreetshop.com
52ND ANNUAL HALF MOON BAY ART AND PUMPKIN FESTIVAL
Half Moon Bay might not be famous for many things, but pumpkins are one thing that has put this little hamlet on the map. The coastal air makes pumpkin magic and grows some gourds that are as big
as a smart car. All ages will be agog at the marvelous and gigantic pumpkins, but will also love the rest of the festival with crafts for sale, art, live music, food, wine, and children’s activities to do too. Expert pumpkin carvers will amaze the crowd with epic works of art unbelievably carved from pumpkins and gourds. There will be pumpkin flavored everything from pies to cocktails, as well as zip line rides, bungee jumping, and more. October 1920. Check website for daily schedule. Free admission. All ages. Main St. between Mill and Spruce, Half Moon Bay, www.pumpkinfest.miramarevents.com
GOBLIN JAMBOREE
The Bay Area Discovery Museum in Sausalito puts on an amazing Halloween to-do for the early childhood crowd. Children can dress up and enjoy the Disglow party, hay maze, slime banquet, spooky science, and more! Buy tickets online in advance. See website for daily schedules and ticket prices. Oct 19-20 & 25-27. Babies under 6 mo. are free. All ages. Bay Area Discovery Museum, 557 McReynolds Way, Sausalito. 415-339-3932, www.bayareadiscoverymuseum.org
HALLOWEEN HOOPLA SAN FRANCISCO
Yerba Buena Center for the Arts hosts their annual Halloween event, and it is fantastic. Kids will enjoy arts and crafts while zany clowns run amok. Games, prizes, fortune tellers and more. Music and dancing are followed by a parade that everyone gets to join. 11/2. Noon - 3 pm. Free. Kids under 10. Children’s Garden, Yerba Buena Gardens, SF. www.ybgfestival.org/event/halloweenhoopla-2024
BOO AT THE ZOO OAKLAND ZOO
Calling all ghosts, goblins, and witches - join in for Boo at the Zoo! Navigate through a 500-bale hay maze, encounter larger-than-life Halloween decorations, and follow the clues on our self-guided scavenger hunt to find the animal x-rays throughout the Zoo! Make sure to grab your event guide and TCHO candy bar*
as you enter the Zoo to participate in all the fun activities! Remember to dress in costume (no inflatable costumes - they can scare the Zoo animals) when you visit and tag Oakland Zoo on social media to enter our Halloween costume contest! October 25-27. See website for details. All ages. Oakland Zoo, 9777 Golf Links Rd., Oakland. 510-632-9525, www.oaklandzoo.org
“THE COOLEST CORN MAZE ON THE PLANET”
Between the Bay Area and Sacramento is a little farm town called Dixon and it boasts the coolest corn maze on the planet. It’s actually way more than just that. There are tubs of dried corn for kids to “swim” in, giant hay bale structures to climb, and 50 acres of mazes and fun, including hay rides and a pumpkin cannon! It is open throughout the month and has free parking. There are food, drinks and pumpkins available for purchase. Check website for daily offerings. All Ages. Cool Patch Pumpkins, 6585 Milk Farm Rd., Dixon. 530-746-8725, www.coolpatchpumpkins.com
THE PIRATES OF EMERSON
This crazy scary haunted house is for older kids, teens and adults. They mean to scare people, and it’s no joke! It’s great for the crowd that’s too cool to trick or treat. There are 5 haunted attractions, including a maze, a pirate themed attraction, and some crazy Voodoo stuff! There is entertainment each night, fortune tellers, and a sideshow of oddities. Spooky! They allow all ages, but it is not for little ones. See website for the various show times throughout October, Thursdays - Sundays, and Halloween, of course. Event sells out early. All ages but best for teens and up. Pirates of Emerson Haunted Themed Park, Valley Ave., Pleasanton. (At Alameda County Fairgrounds) www.piratesofemerson.com Y
Why “Know
Thyself”
is more important than Why “Know Thyself” is more important than
“Know Thy Major” when planning for college
It seems that more than studying what sounds lucrative, studying what we love and excel in (and putting in the time) will lead to greater financial success, sometimes in unpredictable ways.
Business has risen to become one of the most popular undergraduate majors in the US. The practical student thinks, Money is what I want, and money comes from business. One of my students told me he would major in whatever would most likely lead to a high-salary career. While I have always discouraged a purely resource-driven approach to choosing a college major and planning a career, if I can’t change the source of the motivation, I’d say consider Oprah Winfey, who majored in speech communications and performing arts at Tennessee State; or Brené Brown, the thought leader and speaker with a net worth of close to $5 million who majored in Social Work; or Jack Dorsey, the cofounder of Twitter with a net worth of $4.5 billion who was a masseur and even dabbled in fashion design. It seems that more than studying what sounds lucrative, studying what we love and excel in (and putting in the time) will lead to greater financial success, sometimes in unpredictable ways.
The first part—finding what we love — is relatively easy but fairly misguided. What
By Alex Ellison
grabs our attention will change with age, exposure, relationships, and what’s streaming.
The second part – finding what we excel in — was a more difficult and expensive task until the advent of reliable, online aptitude assessments. Once we have exposed these raw aptitudes in ourselves, we can rely on them through time, changing economies, and different living situations. They become a compass.
It’s not just that I want my students to enjoy their future studies; I don’t want them to direct so much time and resources away from their natural gifts, making school, life, and work so much more of a slog than they need to be. Just as genetic testing is helping many people make smarter choices about their health before they’re sick, I think aptitude discovery can help people focus on college and career wellness before they need to be put on life support.
It’s why when I guide young adults, I don’t start by helping them choose specific majors; I encourage them to first get acquainted with their aptitudes through one of assessments available at www.youscience.com.
The old
“Know Thyself” axiom may be a cliché commandment, but it remains a necessary step in discovering our life’s work.
HERE ARE A FEW IMPORTANT FACTORS THAT WILL COME TO BEAR
SPATIAL REASONING
Knowing whether you are naturally a more 3D or Abstract thinker is the difference between choosing architecture or real estate development, mechanical or industrial engineering, psychiatry or psychology. The former makes sense of the world in spatial terms, while the latter does so more abstractly.
INDUCTIVE REASONING
Inductive Thinkers easily spot connections, are comfortable filling in the missing pieces, and can come to conclusions based on the available information. They love the “hunt” of solving for unknowns and treading unfamiliar territory. Their opposites, the Fact Checkers, excel when they have complete information, and they will not give you a premature answer; they’ll keep
digging and mulling over things until they’ve collected enough data points. The former may choose archeology and anthropology, while the latter may prefer medical technologies and accounting.
WORK APPROACH
Perhaps most important to our satisfaction in what we’re studying and doing is the degree to which we wish to specialize. While Generalists can easily shift between a broad range of tasks, oversee a diverse team of experts, and hold an objective eye on their work and the world, specialists thrive when they can “go deep,” focus on their craft, and maintain some coveted expert knowledge in their field. Generalists are happy studying management or engineering, while specialists want to study African Studies or 17th Century Literature. It might also mean the difference between eventually choosing family medicine or podiatry.
The old “Know Thyself” axiom may be a cliché commandment, but it remains a necessary step in discovering our life’s work, even in—or especially in—our hyper practical, rational society that can often lead us to make decisions based on every possible factor except what we are uniquely suited to do. But recognizing our aptitudes is only the first step; experience and exposure have to follow. How else do you discover that medicine is not all Grey’s Anatomy and criminal justice isn’t all CSI: Miami? Y
Alex Ellison runs a college and career guidance practice, Throughline Guidance, which serves clients around the globe. She writes and lectures extensively on the subject of careers and college readiness and has been a featured speaker at SXSWedu and TEDx. Her forthcoming book, Your Hidden Genius: The Science-Backed Strategy to Uncovering and Utilizing Your Innate Talents hits shelves in January 2025 and is available for preorder now. She lives in Santa Cruz, California.
Is My Child Too Sick for School?
By Sarah Lyons
How is a parent to know when it’s best to keep your child home to rest and reduce the risk of spreading illness to other kids?
Your child wakes up with a sore throat and you begin an internal debate of whether to keep your child home or send them to school. On one hand, you do not want your child to struggle through the school day because they don’t feel well but, on the other hand, having your child catch up on school work and taking a day off of work yourself can be difficult if your child feels fine after getting their day started. How is a parent to know when it’s best to keep your child home to rest and reduce the risk of spreading illness to other kids? Let’s look at some common symptoms kids have and when it’s ok to go to school and when it’s best to stay home and recuperate.
SYMPTOM – FEVER
If your child wakes up with a fever over 100 degrees then they should stay home from school. Giving ibuprofen or acetaminophen will help bring your child’s fever down but the temperature should be taken prior to medicine given to determine if your child should go to school that day or not. A child with a fever is most likely contagious so they should stay home.
SYMPTOM – SORE THROAT
If your child has a mild sore throat due to allergies or cold symptoms then they are most likely well enough to attend school. If the sore throat is severe it could be strep throat and you should take your child to a doctor to be tested. If your child tests positive for strep throat, they should be on antibiotics for 24 hours before returning to school to avoid spreading illness.
SYMPTOM – PINK EYE (CONJUNCTIVITIS)
Pink eye is extremely contagious. If your child has yellow/green discharge coming out of their eye or the white of the eye is a pink color then your child should stay home until they have seen a doctor. Most schools will require a note from a doctor saying the child is well enough to return to school or that the child take antibiotic eye drops for 24 hours before attending school.
When in doubt, keep your child home until they are back to their normal, active self.
SYMPTOM – HEADACHE
If your child wakes with a headache but does not have a fever it is most likely safe to send them to school. However, if your child is excessively tired or has other symptoms besides just a mild headache it is possible, they are coming down with something and it might be best to stay home and rest.
SYMPTOM – RASH
If your child has a rash from an unknown source keep them home until you are able to see a doctor to determine what the cause is. Rashes can be caused by many things and some of them are contagious. If you know the cause of your child’s rash such as ringworm or impetigo, use the appropriate measures to ensure it doesn’t spread.
SYMPTOM – EAR ACHE
If your child has ear pain and no other symptoms, they are not contagious and can technically go to school. If the ear pain is causing discomfort, loss of sleep, or a fever, staying home to recuperate may be the best choice.
When it comes to the decision of whether to keep your child home or send them to school, use common sense. If you saw another child with the same symptoms at school, would you want them to be around your healthy child?
SYMPTOM –TUMMY TROUBLES
If your child is having diarrhea or is vomiting, they will need to take the day off of school. Not only are they contagious but they probably aren’t up for their usual routine anyway.
SYMPTOM – COLD SYMPTOMS
If your child has mild cold symptoms such as clear runny nose, mild sore throat, and mild fatigue then they are allowed to attend school. Keep in mind that while cold symptoms don’t affect your ability to participate in normal activities, it doesn’t mean that they are not contagious. Take care to practice frequent hand washing, cover that cough, and get dirty tissues in the trash can.
SYMPTOM – COUGH
You cannot keep your kids home from school and activities every time they cough but kids with a severe cough should stay home from school. Likewise, children who are experiencing shortness of breath or wheezing should stay home and see the family doctor.
When it comes to the decision of whether to keep your child home or send them to school, use common sense. If you saw another child with the same symptoms at school, would you want them to be around your healthy child? If your child has extreme fatigue or generally feels unwell, it might be the sign of something to come and it may be best to rest at home. Usually, when it comes to stopping the spread of illness, it’s best to be safe than sorry. When in doubt, keep your child home until they are back to their normal, active self. Y Sarah Lyons is a mother of six children, including eight year old triplets.
F8 Ideas for Fall Theme Walks to Explore Your Neighborhood
By Katy M. Clark
all is the perfect time of year to get outside. And what better way to experience all the season has to offer than by taking a walk? Walking is fun and easy, plus it provides a boost to your physical and mental health. Going on a walk with your kids lets them notice new things and meet new people along the way.
Here are 8 fall theme walk ideas that you and your family can take around your neighborhood.
1SENSORY WALK
On this walk, have your child focus on their senses. Ask your child what colors they see. Touch the leaves that have fallen. Smell the air and ask if it smells different than in the summer. Listen to the birds or squirrels. Don’t forget to taste fall, too, by sampling apples or cider when you get home.
2 SCAVENGER HUNT
There are many printable scavenger hunts available online or you can get creative and make your own. Have your kids look for distinctly autumnal items like fallen leaves, acorns, or pumpkins. Once they find an item, have them check it off their list. Most kids love carrying the list on a clipboard, too. It’s very official!
3 TALK THE WALK
Use descriptive words to engage your child in talking about fall. Ask them why they like this season. Then tell them why you like it. For example, “I like fall because the colors of the leaves are red, orange, and yellow.” I used to tell my kids that I liked fall because the weather is cooler and it feels good to wear sweaters.
4 BIRD WATCHING WALK
Does fall bring the arrival or departure of different kinds of birds in your area? Talk about the birds you saw this summer and imagine where they live now. Notice which birds fly in V-shaped formations as they prepare to head south. Keep track of how many different birds you see on a walk in a field journal.
5 ART WALK
The object of an art walk is to collect as many items related to fall as you can, such as leaves, sticks, and acorns. Then take them home and create! You can glue twigs and leaves together to make forest creatures or try your hand at making leaf prints. One of the easiest projects my children enjoyed when they were younger was sticking fallen leaves of all colors, shapes and sizes onto contact paper.
6 NIGHTTIME WALK
Just because the days are getting shorter doesn’t mean you have to stay inside when it gets dark. On your nighttime walk, see if you can find constellations like the Big Dipper. Watch for the blinking lights of planes as they cross the sky. Take flashlights or headlamps and look for critters in your neighborhood.
7 BUDDY WALK
Sometimes all that is needed to make a walk more exciting is a friend. Invite one or two buddies to traverse the neighborhood with you or pick a new location for your walk. Simply traveling through a novel area can be an exciting change of pace for most kids. Go for a walk around the block or take a friend on any of the walks here.
8 SCIENCE WALK
Gather leaves that have fallen from trees as well as those from plants. Ask how the leaves are different. Is one kind changing color but the other is not? Look for any black spots on leaves and talk about decay. Notice the evergreen trees in your area and discuss why they do not change color. For extra credit, bring home leaves and press them between sheets of newspaper weighed down by books for a few days. This will preserve their shape and color without the leaves curling and drying out. Y
Katy M. Clark is a writer whose work has appeared in national and regional parenting magazines. She blogs at ExperiencedBadMom. com
Fearless, We COMMUNITY
More Open House Events Online at www.ParentsPress.com
BERKELEY
Bayhill High School 9-12
Open House
October 26, 2024 - RSVP
January 25, 2025 - RSVP 1940 Virginia Street www.bayhillhs.org
The Berkeley School PS - 8
Open House
October 2, 2024 - RSVP
November 6, 2024 9:00am Virtual Open House
October 23, 2024 @ 6:00pm
December 18, 2024 - RSVP 1310 University Ave www.theberkeleyschool.org
The Crowden School K-8
Open House
October 20, 2024 @ 12:00pm Group Tours
October 16, 2024 @ 9:30am
October 29, 2024 @ 9:15am
November 11, 2024 @ 9:15am
December 4, 2024 @ 9:15am
December 13, 2024 @ 9:30am 1475 Rose Street www.crowden.org
Maybeck High School 9-12
Open House
November 2, 2024 @ 10:30 am 2727 College Ave www.maybeckhs.org
Shu Ren Intl. School K-8
Open House
October 3, 2024 @ 8:30 am 2125 Jefferson Ave shurenschool.com
CASTRO VALLEY
Redwood Christian Schools
TK - 12
TK - 5th Info Night
October 3, 2024 @ 5:00 pm 4200 James Avenue www.rcs.edu
CONCORD
Orion Academy 9-12
Open House
November 2, 2024 @ 9:30 am 1868 Clayton Road www.orionacademy.org
DANVILLE
The Athenian School 6-12
Open House
October 27, 2024 - RSVP
2100 Mt Diablo Scenic Blvd www.athenian.org
EMERYVILLE
East Bay German International
School PS - 8
On Campus Open House
October 19, 2024 @ 10:00 am
Online Info Session – Early Childhood
October 4, 2024 @ 9:00 am
Online Info Session (K-5)
October 30, 2024 @ 9:00 am
Online Info Session (6-8)
November 13, 2024 @ 7:00 pm
November 29, 2024 @ 7:00 pm
1070 41st Street www.ebgis.org
East Bay International HS 9-12
Online Information Session
November 6, 2024 @ 6:00 pm 1070 41st Street www.ebgis.org
HAYWARD
Moreau Catholic HS 9-12
Open House
November 4, 2024 @ 9:00 am 27170 Mission Blvd www.moreaucatholic.org
LAFAYETTE
Bentley School 9-12
Upper School Open House
November 2, 2024 @ 12:00 pm 1000 Upper Happy Valley Road www.bentleyschool.org
The Springstone School 6-12
Open House
November 2, 2024 @ 10:00 am 1035 Carol Lane thespringstoneschool.org
MORAGA
The Saklan School - PS - 8
MS In-Person Open House
October 4, 2024 @ 8:30 am
Lower School Virtual Event
October 8, 2024 @ 12:00 pm
Virtual School Overview
October 16, 2024 @ 12:00 pm
October 22, 2024 @ 6:00 pm
The Saklan School (Cont.)
Early Childhood Virtual Event
November 19, 2024 @ 12:00 pm 1678 School St www.saklan.org
OAKLAND
Aurora School K-8 K-5 Tours
October 18, 2024 @ 8:45 am
November 8, 2024 @ 8:45 am
Middle School (6-8) Tours
October 17, 2024 @ 8:45 am
November 7, 2024 @ 8:45 am 40 Dulwich Road www.auroraschool.org
Bentley School K-8
K-8 Open House
November 2, 2024 @ 9:00 am
1 Hiller Dr www.bentleyschool.org
Head-Royce K - 12
Lower School Open House
October 6, 2024 @ 1:00 pm
Middle School Open House
November 10, 2024 @ 1:00 pm
Upper School Open House
November 3, 2024 @ 1:00 pm 4315 Lincoln Ave www.headroyce.org
Holy Names High School 9-12
Open House
October 27, 2024 - RSVP 4660 Harbord Dr www.hnhsoakland.org
Park Day School K-8 K-3 Tour
November 7, 2024 @ 8:45 am
November21, 2024 @ 8:45 am K-8 Open House
November 9, 2024 @ 10:00 am
Upper Grade Tour
November13, 2024 @ 8:45 am
November 20, 2024 @ 8:45 am 360 42nd St www.parkdayschool.org
Redwood Day School K-8
Virtual Q&A
October 9, 2024 @ 9:00 am
October 23, 2024 @ 9:00 am
November 6, 2024 @ 9:00 am 3245 Sheffield Avenue www.rdschool.org
PIEDMONT
Corpus Christi School (K-8) Open House
October 8, 2024 @ 8:15 am
November 2, 2024 @ 9:00 am 1 Estates Dr www.corpuschristischool.com
RICHMOND
Salesian College Prep. 9-12 Open House
October 20, 2024 @ 1:00 pm Admissions Info Session
November 6, 2024 @ 6:30 pm 2851 Salesian Ave www.salesian.com
SAN FRANCISCO
The International School of San Francisco PK-12
PreK-K Open House
November 2, 2024 @ 10:00 am High School Open House
October 20, 2024 @ 10:00 am 150 Oak St & 1155 Page Ave www.internationalsf.org
Sacred Heart Cathedral Preparatory 9-12 Open House
October 26, 2024 @ 9:00 am 1055 Ellis St www.shcp.edu
WALNUT CREEK Berean Christian HS 9-12 Open House
November 9, 2024 @ 10:00 am 245 El Divisadero Ave www.bereanchristian.org
The Seven Hills School PS - 8 Admissions Campus Tour K-8
October 22, 2024 @ 8:30am 975 North San Carlos Drive www.sevenhillsschool.org
Check out more school open house events online at www.ParentsPress.com — Select School Open Houses
Don’t see your school’s event? You can post it online at the URL above.
PRESCHOOLS AND EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION
Find the Right Start for Your Child
Parents’ Press takes the guesswork out of finding the right preschool for your child, from start to finish.
The following articles are excerpts from the 2024/25 East Bay Guide to Preschools and Early Education, covering “7 Steps to Finding the Perfect Preschool,” “What to Look for When Doing the Site Visit” and “Basics to Know About Preschool Options.” The complete 2024/25 East Bay Guide to Preschools and Early Education leads parents along the early education or preschool selection path beginning with how to determine if your child is
ready for preschool, what options and different teaching philosophies are available, questions to ask a preschool, what to look for on a site visit and more. In addition, you will find program profiles and a comprehensive list of regional early education and preschool programs. Your road to the ideal early education program just got easier! Get your copy today of this free resource at ParentsPress.com/our-magazines.
How to Find the Perfect Program
1
START EARLY. It takes time to research different styles of preschools and become familiar with common terms used. Many parents start this process a year ahead of time, some parents even start while pregnant! Children usually attend preschool for two to three years between the ages of 2.5 and 5 years.
2
DETERMINE WHAT CRITERIA IS MOST IMPORTANT FOR YOUR CHILD AND FAMILY. Is it location, faith, type of program offered, language immersion, special-needs options, a year-round program, extended hours, cost? Prioritize what are the most important factors for your situation? Rate these factors so you have a clear picture of where and what programs to focus on and what is the best fit for your child and family.
3
UTILIZE LOCAL PARENTING RESOURCES. Local parenting websites, like ParentsPress.com, offer lots of early education and preschool information as well as open house announcements. These resources will help you to become familiar with what programs are available in your area and the options being offered to help with your selection process. Visit school websites that look interesting to find out admissions information.
4
ASK AROUND. Talk to other parents in your area to see what programs they were part of, and if they would recommend them. Find out what they liked most and least about the program. How long did their child attend? Did they experience any teacher turnover? What was the culture like? How did they handle sick days, potty training and behavioral issues? How involved were the parents in the school? Are the parents and children still in contact with others from that preschool?
Continued on page
1
What to Look for When Doing the Site Visit
Be prepared with this checklist before you step foot into the school
FIRST IMPRESSIONS. Is the preschool clean, organized and does it have a good feeling about it? Is the staff friendly, and are the teachers in control of the classroom? Inside, are there play areas? Are toys and books in good shape and organized? Outside is there enough room? Are there play areas and toys for all of the kids? Does the preschool feel safe inside and out? Does the preschool feel like a place your child can thrive in?
2
THE BASICS. What are the start and end times for the core program? If extended care is an option, who manages this, and, where is it held? What is the daily schedule, as well as the school holiday schedule? Are lunch and snacks provided? If not, is refrigeration available? Is the bathroom safe and centrally located with toddler sized facilities? What are the illness policies? Is the facility up to code? What are the emergency protocols?
3
TEACHERS AND STAFF. Is there enough supervision? Does the teacher-child ratio match or exceed standards? Teacher turnover? What experience do the teachers have and how long have they been teaching at this school? How were they trained? Do the teachers seem happy? How is their interaction with the children? How do they balance the different needs of the children? Do they have a specific approach for teaching social-emotional skills? How do they communicate with the family on concerns? How often are parent-teacher conferences held?
4
LEARNING ENVIRONMENT. Are the children doing the same project or do the children work independently? Are there a variety
of learning materials in which children can explore their interests and learn new skills? Is there a focus on reading? How do children decide what to do, when to do it and with whom? What support do teachers provide when a child gets stuck on a project? How are children motivated to participate? How are holidays integrated into the learning experience?
5
FAMILY INVOLVEMENT. How involved are the families in the day-to-day operations of the preschool? What opportunities or organized events are available to meet other families during the school year? Is there a parent association? Are there required volunteer hours or monetary commitments beyond the tuition? Are there fundraising events and what is the money raised used for? Are there opportunities for classroom observation? How do family members participate in celebrations?
6 FINAL IMPRESSION OF THE VISIT. This is your gut check. Do you feel this preschool is a great fit for your child? Did you feel comfortable with what you saw and the people you interacted with? Did your concerns get addressed? Any red flags you need to check up on? Were you encouraged to contact the school with any questions? Is there a clear next step in the process?
Every family has specific needs and many preschools can accommodate most needs. It is important to ask questions now. Don’t be afraid to discuss personal matters, one on one. Chances are the preschool has encountered a similar situation before and is up to the task or may be able to give you direction to an alternative resource. Y
Looking for a school where your young child will truly thrive?
The school for your child: a health conscious, culturally responsive, joyful environment.
<<< Continued from page 22
5
CONTACT THE PRESCHOOL. Before you apply, find out the preschool’s admissions schedule and how many openings they will have and how many spots will be reserved for siblings of families already enrolled. If you are concerned that your top choice or choices have way more applicants than spots it would be a wise idea to apply to more than one preschool even though there may be an application fee. Find out ways to tours the school.
6
TOUR YOUR TOP CHOICES. Arrange to take a tour or go to an open house to learn about the school philosophy and the admissions process. Most schools prefer for you to preregister for these. Have your questions ready and observe. Look for signs that the preschool is well run. Also, this is a time that the preschool uses to determine which families will be a good fit for their program.
7
APPLY TO YOUR TOP CHOICE. You have done your research, established your criteria and taken the tour — now it is time to apply to your top choice. Some preschools have ongoing enrollment but most follow the school year format. Acceptance letters go out in spring for the following fall. Also, find out from the organization when you can expect to hear from them, one way or another. It is okay to be persistent and let them know you and your family are interested, but don’t be a pest. If your child is waitlisted get specifics from the preschool. What number on the wait list is your child and does the preschool have a commitment from all returning families? If the school is accepting a total of 15 new children and you are way down on the wait list, it is time to consider other options. If you are concerned that your top choice has more applicants than spots it would be a good idea to apply to more than one preschool. Y
(if any) Hours of Care
Alameda
The Child Unique Montessori School - Encinal Campus 2226 Encinal Ave.
Alameda • 510-521-9227
The Child Unique Montessori School - Pacific Campus 2212 Pacific Ave.
Alameda • 510-521-9227 www.thechildunique.org 18 mos - 3 yrs Up to 20 children
The Child Unique Montessori School - Taylor Campus 1400 Sixth St.
Alameda • 510-521-0595 www.thechildunique.org
Alamo
The Dorris-Eaton School 1286 Stone Valley Road Alamo • 925-837-7240 www.dorriseaton.org
Cedar Creek Montessori School Helping Children Explore Their World!
$622 -$1,933
$622 -$1,933
- $36,320
Preschool Basics –Where to Begin
Contrary to what you might have heard, choosing the right preschool for your child is not as difficult as applying for an advanced degree. The key to choosing the right preschool is going into the process prepared. Prepared with a solid idea of what you want your child to gain from his or her preschool experience.
Below are helpful suggestions for choosing a preschool that is a good match for your child and your family, as well as information on some of the most popular types of preschool educational philosophies.
Think about the Basics
The best way to keep from becoming overwhelmed by the process of choosing a preschool is to think about how the preschool will fit into your daily life. Here are some questions parents should consider:
• Is it important for the preschool to be near my home?
• Is it important for the preschool to be near my workplace?
• Is it important for the preschool to offer childcare services in the morning, afternoon, or both?
• Are you looking for a play-based classroom or a more academic setting?
• Am I eligible for or interested in subsidized preschool programs (i.e., Early Head Start, Child Welfare League of America or state-funded programming) that offer services such as childcare programs with a focus on providing educational opportunities?
Answering each of these questions will help you narrow down the general location and type of setting you should research making the process of comparing programs easier to manage.
Become Familiar with Common Terms
For many parents, the most confusing part about choosing preschools is trying to make sense of terms such as, “Montessori Approach,” “child-centered,” “Waldorf Approach” and “faith-based.” What do these terms mean and how can these terms help you choose a preschool?
Oftentimes, the key difference between settings is connected to the preschool’s “educational philosophy.” While educational philosophies are numerous and their definitions are not set in stone, we have provided you with definitions for some of the most popular philosophies.
Academic vs Play-Based
Academic preschools have a mostly teacher-led classroom. Teachers and staff guide kids through a tightly structured curriculum. They introduce kids to several subjects, including math, reading, writing, science, and nature.
In a play-based program, children choose activities on their current interests. The play-based classroom is broken up into sections, such as a home or kitchen, science area, water table, reading nook, space with blocks and other toys or other areas. Teachers encourage kids to play, facilitating social skills along the way.
Montessori Method
This philosophy focuses on maintaining the individuality of each child in the learning process. It believes each child learns at their own pace and educational progress should not be rendered based upon comparing students to one another.
Reggio Emilia Approach
This approach focuses on providing opportunities for problem solving and expression through creativity and exploration.
Waldorf Approach
Emphasis is placed on imagination and experiential learning, providing students with opportunities to explore their world through the senses, participation and analytical thought.
Bank Street Approach
This approach places an emphasis on learning through multiple perspectives, both in the classroom setting and in the natural world with a strong focus on emotional and intellectual development.
HighScope Approach
This approach focuses on letting children be in charge of their own learning. Children are taught to make a plan for what they would like to do each day and participate in a review session to discuss the success of their plan and brainstorm ideas for the next day.
Outside of the formal educational philosophies, knowing the difference between other common early childhood terms will
help you make informed decisions regarding your child’s education. Below is a list of some common terms used to describe preschool settings. It should be noted that these terms may be used alone or in combination with one another (i.e., a “childcentered, faith-based” setting).
Child-centered
This term is often used to describe settings that take the children’s interests into consideration when planning activities. For example: in a child-centered setting, the classroom activities are based on the interests of the students, not on pre-scheduled topics chosen by the teacher. These settings often offer increased opportunities for children to choose activities throughout the day depending on their interests.
Teacher-led
The opposite of a child-centered setting is a teacher-led setting. Teacher-led often means that curriculum and supplemental activities are implemented based on a set schedule developed by the teachers in the setting. This type of setting usually provides children with a structured learning environment.
Child-led
These settings believe children learn best when they are engaged and interested in learning. Child-led settings wait for each child to initiate or ask for new activities and experiences, fostering individualized learning experiences rather than group experiences.
Continued on page 34 >>>
Featured Preschools
Berkeley
The Berkeley School (Early Childhood Campus)
2030 Francisco St
Berkeley • 510-849-8340 www.theberkeleyschool.org
Cedar Creek Montessori School
1600 Sacramento Street
Berkeley • 510-525-1377
cedarcreekmontessorischool.com
Ecole Bilingue de Berkeley (EB) 1009 Heinz Avenue
Berkeley • 510-549-3897 www.eb.org
KSS Spanish Immersion Preschool 1422 San Pablo Ave
Berkeley • 877-442-2555 www.ksspreschool.com
Little Elephant Too! 2008 McGee Ave
Berkeley • 510-679-5056 www.littleelephant.net
Shu Ren International School 2125 Jefferson Ave.
Berkeley • 510-841-8899 www.shurenschool.com
Step One School
499 Spruce Street
Berkeley • 510-527-9021
www.steponeschool.org
Concord
Wood Rose Academy & Preschool 4347 Cowell Road
Concord • 925-825-5493
Danville
Autumn Creek Learning Center 14 Osborn Way
Danville • 925-743-4187
www.autumncreek-lc.com
Ages Served # of Children at Facility
Religious Affil (if any) Hours of Care
2 yr - 5 Up to 92 children
8:30 am - 3:00 pm Ext care to 5:30 pm
2.6 yr - 5 Up to 40 children 8:00 am - 5:30 pm
2 yr - 5 Up to 100 children 8:15am to 3:30pm. Extended care available (7:30am to 6pm)
2 yr - 6 Up to 48 children 7:00 am - 6:00 pm
2 - 6 yrs 24 children 8:00 am - 5:30 pm
to G8 Up to 140 children 7:30 am - 6:00pm
2 yr - 5 115 children 8:30 am - 5:00 pm
2 yr - 8th grade Up to 56 children Roman Catholic 6:45 am - 6:00 pm
2 yr - 5 Up to 110 children 7:00 am - 6:00 pm
Tuition Range Accredited Facility? Diapers Accepted? Education Based?
Home or Center Meals Provided? Special Needs? Transportation?
$28,500 FA Available Accredited Diapers Accepted Education Based
Varies Diapers Accepted Education Based
$33,665 Accredited Diapers Accepted Education Based
$2,795 Tuition Assistance
Spanish Immersion Education Based
Special Needs Accepted
Variety of schedules available
$2,795 - 10 months Tuition Assistance
Accredited Mandarin Immersion Education Based Center Summer Programs
$19,000 - $35,000/ year FA Avaiable Diapers Accepted Education Based Center Meals Provided
$510 - $1,620
Diapers Accepted Education Based Center Meals Provided
Please call for rate Accredited Diapers Accepted Education Based Center Meals Provided
Garden Montessori School 495 Verona Avenue
Danville • 925-837-2969
Dublin
Quarry Lane School
5600 Scarlett Dr. Dublin • 925-466-3100 www.quarrylane.org
El Cerrito
Children’s Garden Montessori School
2335 Tulare Ave
El Cerrito • 510- 232-3089 https://www.childrensgardenmontessorischool.com
Emeryville
East Bay German International School Early Education 1070 41st St. Emeryville • 510-380-0302 www.ebgis.org/ 2 - 5
Hayward
California Crosspoint Academy
25500 Industrial Blvd
Hayward • 510-995-5333 www.crosspointacademy.org
925-932-8088 www.happydayslafayette.com 2 yr - 11 Up to 84 children 7:00 am – 6:00 pm $930-$1925 Diapers Accepted Education Based
Featured Preschools
Old Firehouse School 984 Moraga Rd
Lafayette • 925-284-4321
Served
(if any) Hours of
www.oldfirehouseschool.com 12 mos - 5
The Child Day Schools 1049 Stuart Street
Lafayette • 925-284-7092
www.tcdschools.com
Viva el Español 925 Village Center, Suite 2
Lafayette • 925-962-9177 www.vivaelespanol.org Ages 3 - 13
Livermore
Valley Montessori School 1273 N. Livermore Avenue
Livermore • 925-455-8021 www.vmschool.org
Moraga
The Child Day Schools
372 Park Street
Moraga • 925-376-5110
www.tcdschools.com
Preschool: 18 mos - K plus Grades 1-8 Up to 425 children Independent 7:30 am - 6:00 pm
mos - 5 years
am to 5:30
Tuition Range Accredited Facility? Diapers Accepted? Education Based?
Please call for rate
$935 to $2,410 Diapers Accepted
Varies according to schedule
Varies by program2, 3 or 5 half/full day AMS, CAIS, WASC Diapers Accepted Montessori Curriculum
$890 - $2,475
Diapers Accepted
Based
Newark
Challenger School - Ardenwood
35487 Dumbarton Court
Newark • 510-739-0300
www.challengerschool.com/campus/california/newark/ardenwood
Challenger School
39600 Cedar Blvd.
Newark • 510-770-1771
www.challengerschool.com/campus/california/newark
Oakland
Broadway Children’s School of Oakland
394 Adams Street
Oakland • 510-763-9337
www. broadwaychildrensschool.org
Escuela Bilingüe Internacional 410 Alcatraz Ave. Oakland • 510-653-3324
www.ebi.school
KSS Spanish Immersion Preschool 2540 Charleston St
Oakland • 877-442-2555
www.ksspreschool.com
Featured Preschools
KSS Spanish Immersion Preschool 1650 Mountain Blvd
Oakland • 877-442-2555
www.ksspreschool.com
Les Petits Francophones
3900 35th Avenue
Oakland • 510-479-1250
www.lespetitsfrancophones.com
Oak Grove Learning, Inc 8115 Fontaine St
Oakland • 510-430-1322
www.oakgrovelearning.com
Oakland Montessori School 3625 Fruitvale Avenue 3636 Dimond Avenue
Oakland • 510-482-3111 www.oaklandmontessori.com
Rockridge Montessori School 5633 Manila Av
Oakland • 510-652-7021
www.rockridgemontessori.org
Treehouse Preschool & TK
4000 Redwood Rd
Ages Served # of Children at Facility
Religious Affil (if any) Hours of Care
2 yr - 6 Up to 60 children 7:00 am - 6:00 pm
0 yr - 5 Up to 54 children
8:00 am - 5:30 pm
18 mos through Kindergarten Up to 62 children 7:00 am - 6:00 pm
Toddler-K Up to 40 children
8:30 am - 4:30 pm Extended Care Avail
12 months through Kindergarten Up to 139 children 7:30 am - 6:00 pm
Oakland • 510-531-0320 www.firstcovtreehousepreschool.org 2 yr - 5 First Covenant Church 9:00 am - 4:00 pm or 7:30 am - 6:00 pm
Orinda
Holy Shepherd Christian Preschool
433 Moraga Way
Orinda • 925-254-3429 www.holyshepherd.org
Piedmont
City of Piedmont Mulitiple Locations
Piedmont • 510-420-3040 https://piedmont.ca.gov
Pleasant Hill
Choice in Learning
490 Golf Club Rd
Pleasant Hill • 925-687-5321 cilmontessori.org
Pleasanton
Little Flowers Montessori 11533 Dublin Canyon Rd Pleasanton • 925-225-9600
Quarry Lane School
3750 Boulder St. Pleasanton • 925-846-9400 www.quarrylane.org
Quarry Lane School 4444B Black Ave. Pleasanton • 925-462-6300 www.quarrylane.org
2 yr - 5 Up to 25 children Christian 9:00 am - 2:00
Tuition Range Accredited Facility?
Diapers Accepted? Education Based? Home or Center Meals Provided? Special Needs? Transportation?
$2,795 Tuition Assistance Spanish Immersion Education Based
$1,585 - $2,923
Diapers Accepted Play Based Learning French Immersion Program
$1,175 - $1,931
Diapers Accepted Education Based
$14,000-$25,500 Accredited Education Based
$2,405 - $3,347
Diapers Accepted Education Based
Little Angels (2yrs) $2,150.00 PS-TK (3-5 yrs) $1,810.00
Registration Fee $100 Diapers Accepted (2yr old class)
Extended Day Available
Meals Provided
Meals Provided
The Child Day Schools
883 Rose Avenue
Pleasanton • 925-462-1866
www.tcdschools.com
Richmond
St. David Preschool
Richmond • 510-232-1736
www.stdavidschool.org
San Ramon
Diablo Hills Country School
50 Creekside Drive
San Ramon • 925-831-1210 www.diablohillscountryschool.com
The Child Day Schools
18868 Bollinger Canyon Road San Ramon • 925-820-2515 www.tcdschools.com
Walnut Creek
Contra Costa Christian Schools
2721 Larkey Lane
Walnut Creek • 925-934-4964 contracostachristianschools.org
KSS Spanish Immersion Preschool
2780 Camino Diablo
Walnut Creek • 877-442-2555 www.ksspreschool.com
Old Firehouse School 55 Eckley Ln Walnut Creek • 925-934-1507 www.oldfirehouseschool.com
The Seven Hills School 975 North San Carlos Drive Walnut Creek • 925-933-0666 www.sevenhillsschool.org
$8,000-$11,000
Treehouse Preschool & Transitional Kindergarten
Ages: 2-5 Years
Well Rounded Curriculum
Experienced Loving Teachers
9:00am-4:00pm & 7:30am-6:00pm
A Ministry of First Covenant Church 4000 Redwood Rd, Oakland, CA 94619
510.531.0320
www.firstcovtreehousepreschool.org jan@treehousepreschool.org
Les Petits Francophones
French Dual Immersion Preschool
• Emphasis on French Language
• Affordable
• Year Round
• Play-based
• Nurturing environment
• Enrichment Programs
• Part-time and Full Time
• Extended hours available
• Meals included
Faith-based
This term is used to describe preschool programs that are run through faith organizations such as churches or synagogues, according to their faith’s philosophies.
Co-operative
These settings often ask parents and families to assist in the running of the preschool. Parents and family members may build community by signing up to volunteer during the week, or by assisting in the day-to-day management of the preschool as well as helping with advertising, upkeep and fundraising.
Developmentally Appropriate
This term means the preschool plans the curriculum and activities based on activities that are appropriate for the age of the children in the class.
Pre-kindergarten (Pre-K)
Sometimes this term is used interchangeably with preschool. In general, a pre-K program is one that has children enrolled in the year before kindergarten, usually at age four. These settings are often more structured than traditional preschool settings.
Transitional Kindergarten (TK) or Bridge K
Transitional kindergarten (TK) is a school grade that serves as a bridge between preschool and kindergarten, functioning to provide students with time to develop fundamental skills needed for success in school in an age - and developmentally - appropriate setting.
Your Research
Once you have narrowed down the general area you are interested in researching and have a good idea of what type of philosophy would best suit your child, here are a few things you can do to help narrow down your options:
Reach out to other parents: Ask your friends, your neighbors, your pediatrician, your older child’s teacher — ask people you trust for recommendations for quality settings in your area. Be mindful to note the name of the setting and what struck this person as important to mention (low student teacher ratio, close to home, child is excited to arrive, etc.). And, the best question to ask is, “What advice do you wish you had received before choosing your child’s preschool?” Most parents will be happy to offer their insight and advice.
Go online: You might be surprised to learn that your community has an active preschool networking community, a great place to tap into useful advice and resources. Or, you can use the internet to search the names of settings to find out if they have any “red flags” like numerous complaints from parents, health or safety violations, or other noteworthy issues. The Bananas, 4C’s of Alameda County and the Contra Costa Child Care Council websites offer a wealth of information for parents seeking information.
The best ways to find preschool programs are to get recommendations from fellow parents and scope out programs located close to home or work. Y <<<
The East Bay German International School (EBGIS) offers exceptional academics and German immersion from preschool through grade 8. Our East Bay International High School (EBIHS) is a college preparatory high school offering the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme (DP). Often referred to as the gold standard in high school education, the IB is highly regarded by universities in the United States and worldwide.
We provide a dynamic learning environment and a truly global perspective, anchored by our European educational approach. Our small size and low student-teacher ratio (7:1) enable our highly trained international faculty to provide an individualized educational experience to each student.
Our International High School is open to all students in grades 9-12. EBIHS offers multiple language tracks with beginner to native-speaker-level language and literature courses in German, French, and Spanish as well as introductory Mandarin. All other EBIHS instruction is in English.
No knowledge of German is required for students entering our preschool or kindergarten, nor for our high school. Talk with us about individualized language support for elementary and middle school students.
Open House
October 19, 2024
January 25, 2025 10 am - 2 pm
High School Campus Visit
September 23, 2024 9:40 am
Online Info Sessions for all programs. Register at: http://www.ebgis.org/ admissions/visit-us 1070 41st Street
Emeryville, CA 94608 (510) 380-0302 admissions@ebgis.org
