Amy, mother of Leo (alum) and Caroline:
"We have been sending first one child and then our second to this school for going on 6 years, and I cannot say enough good things about it. My daughter bounds up the steps each day excited to see all her classmates and teachers. The classroom environment is warm and friendly with a focus on play-based learning. There is often some new area set up for the kids to keep it interesting and to encourage playing together (like "grocery store" and "hospital"- both big hits with my kid). The teachers are kind and attentive and they truly enjoy being with the kids. They really take the time to focus on each child's needs and communicate well with parents, whether it's a positive story or there is a challenge area they are working on with the child."
Camille, mother of Siena (alum) and Mia:
"Berkeley Hills Nursery School is a wonderful place. My experience with it began over 30 years ago when my brother and sister went there. My family loved it so much my husband and I wound up sending both of our own children there. It is wholesome and down to earth inside and out. Not only are the teachers are amazing (my daughters have loved all of them) but the community of parents is engaged and fun as well."
Jenny, mother of Lila (alum) and Josie:
"Both of my daughters have thrived at BHNS. The teachers and community are so welcoming, warm and nurturing. They learn a lot, too, and foster life-long friendships. We're thrilled with our choice and highly recommend it to other local families."
Yulia and Alexei, parents of Sophia and prospective student Peter:
"When our daughter was starting in the Red room we were very anxious. She is a shy child, we just had a baby, and she was still adjusting to the role of the big sister. Our greater fear was that her English was extremely limited since we speak only Russian at home. The teachers in the Red room eased her into the school routine and she loved outdoor play the most. Especially riding the pink scooter! In the Blue room her favorite thing is to do arts and crafts projects. She is now participating in circle time every day and speaks English freely. The school also has an amazing collection of educational toys and puzzles. When we go to the toy store I would pick up something with a "toy of the year" or "parents' choiche" award and Sophia would tell me, "We already have that at school". What matter most to us though is that she always feels loved in school and trusts her teachers completely."
The Angell family:
"Three out of our four kids had the chance to go to BHNS and enjoy the safe, fun, playful introduction to their schooling years. The school not only provided the care and love we were hoping for, but most importantly gave them a solid foundation for their social, emotional and academic skills. Leaving BHNS was hard, as our kids always talk fondly of their years there, but it was a very easy transition to their elementary school. The kids were well prepared and ready to face the new adventures the world had to offer them." We love BHNS.
Jennifer & Michael, parents of Jake:
"My son Jake says to me most mornings, "is it a home day or school day?". When I respond school day, he gets very happy. We are in our 3rd year at BHNS and have been extremely pleased with the school. BHNS has it all, a beautiful environment that fosters learning through play, wonderful caring teachers, and a terrific community. BHNS is nestled in a beautiful neighborhood with lots of big trees to shade and filter pollution. The play areas are charming and fun and allow the children a safe place to burn off energy. The curriculum changes to match the children's interest. This keeps it very engaging and non-repetitive. My son loves his teachers. They are dedicated to each child to make sure they receive the attention needed to grow and learn. The school strongly promotes community by having parent socials, the park outside the blue room, and fun activities to meet the other families. We are so lucky to have found BHNS!"
The Titus Family:
"I can't say enough about Berkeley Hills Nursery School. My active son came into the Blue room not knowing any other children and found himself in the midst of fifteen new friends. He loved going every day. What challenges he faced were me by the more than competent team of teachers. Their patience and careful guidance, redirection and positive input, helped my son become the confident, happy, school-loving child that he is today. With several children, we've experienced two other pre-school programs. Berkeley Hills Nursery School stands head and shoulders above the rest for their individual thought and care for every child, whomever he or she may be."