We believe children thrive when surrounded by nature, a supportive community, and a curriculum that nurtures creativity, independence, and respect. We hope you join us in helping your child explore, grow, and discover the world around them.

 

📖 Programs and Curriculum

At Little Bee, our nature-based curriculum integrates the philosophies of Reggio-Emilia and Montessori to provide a holistic learning experience. Just steps away from Presidio Park, our outdoor classroom encourages children to explore the natural world daily. Beyond the park, we also venture to iconic locations such as Crissy Field East Beach, Lyon Street Steps, the Palace of Fine Arts, and various community gardens.

Our daily outings allow children to freely explore, play, and discover at their own pace, fostering curiosity and a love for learning.

 

📃 Our Programs

  • Toddler Program: Age Range: 18–36 months | Schedule: Full-time or part-time options

  • Preschool Program: Age Range: 2–5 years | Schedule: Full-time or part-time options

Prior knowledge of Mandarin is not required to enroll in the language program. Learn more about our Chinese Program.

 

🏛️ Program Pillars

  • Projects and Play: We believe play is the ultimate catalyst for learning. Through in-depth, child-led projects, children explore personal interests while engaging in academia and sensory experiences. For example, open-ended art may teach Chinese writing, or hands-on experiments might demonstrate cause-and-effect relationships.

  • Representational Development: To accommodate diverse learning styles, new concepts are presented in multiple forms—print, art, drama, music, puppetry, and more. This approach ensures every child has the opportunity to grasp and enjoy the learning experience.

  • Collaboration: Children work together in small and large groups to solve problems through dialogue, negotiation, and comparison. By expressing their own ideas and valuing the perspectives of others, children learn critical interpersonal skills and develop a deeper sense of community.

  • Sense of Self: With the guidance of experienced educators, children are encouraged to be autonomous in their daily activities. This independence, coupled with support, nurtures self-esteem, confidence, and integrity—key traits for lifelong success.

  • Respect: We emphasize respect for all: peers, family, teachers, nature, and the broader community. Children take on age-appropriate responsibilities, such as mentoring younger classmates or helping with transitions, to contribute to their mixed-age classroom and learn the value of teamwork.

 

⌛ Daily Schedule

Our schedule is designed to adapt to the needs of children while providing structure and consistency. Quarterly field trips are planned in collaboration with the PTA to enrich the curriculum.

— Morning Schedule

  • 8:00 AM – 9:00 AM: Drop-off & Free Play | Temperature checks, handwashing, and preparation for the day. Mask-wearing is encouraged.

  • 9:00 AM – 9:30 AM: Morning Preparation | Morning greetings, adventure review, diaper changes, and sunblock application.

  • 8:00 AM – 9:00 AM: Drop-off & Free Play | Temperature checks, handwashing, and preparation for the day. Mask-wearing is encouraged.

  • 9:30 AM – 12:00 PM: Outdoor Exploration | Nature walks, outdoor reading, and creative activities using natural materials.

— Midday Schedule

  • 12:00 PM – 1:00 PM: Lunch | Wash hands, enjoy lunch, and clean up.

  • 1:00 PM – 3:30 PM: Nap Time | Quiet rest or nap on personal mats. Non-nappers enjoy quiet time activities.

— Afternoon Schedule

  • 3:30 PM – 4:10 PM: Snack Time | Snacks provided after naptime.

  • 4:10 PM – 4:30 PM: Circle Time | Reflect on the day’s nature walk and creative projects.

  • 4:30 PM – 5:30 PM: Indoor/Outdoor Free Play | Rotational use of indoor and outdoor playgrounds.

— Dismissal

  • By 5:30 PM: Pick-up | The school closes promptly at 5:30 PM to ensure teachers are well-rested for the next day.