Discover Stratford Altadena’s Early Preschool Program
For children aged 2 to 2 1/2 years, the program supports their early learning journey. Visit an Open House on October 25
Stratford School Altadena opened its doors in 2016 with a signature STEAM preschool program that began at the age of 2 ½ and required potty training. As the campus grew and word spread about the program, parents began requesting the option to start earlier. Stratford Altadena responded by introducing a new Early Preschool class, starting at age 2, with no potty training required. The program is now in its third year, and the youngest learners are thriving in classrooms carefully designed to meet all of their needs, with a lower teacher-to-student ratio that supports the extra care and attention they deserve.
Early Childhood Education Principal Veronica Brenes is visibly proud of the incredible learning that is happening every day in the Early Preschool classrooms. “Our teachers create a warm, nurturing environment where children feel safe, loved, and excited to explore,” Brenes says. Through early STEAM activities tailored to meet their developmental stage, early preschoolers discover, create, and develop essential social-emotional skills, including sharing, empathy, and cooperation. “I love to see how each child is supported at their own pace, and we celebrate the unique strengths they bring to our community.”
What are the unique features of Stratford’s Early Preschool Program?
Caring and Nurturing Teachers
Stratford’s teachers provide a safe and welcoming classroom atmosphere that gives students the freedom to discover, learn, and play. Teachers build strong connections with each child, ensuring they feel safe, loved, and valued. Their patience, warmth, and genuine care create an environment that fosters exploration and growth.
Creative Exploration
Art, music, and movement are part of a preschooler’s daily routine. With a dedicated music teacher, children have ample space to express themselves, develop their fine motor skills, and build confidence in their unique talents in a joyful and fun environment.
Focus on Social-Emotional Growth
Stratford focuses on developing the all-important social-emotional skills, such as empathy, sharing, and cooperation, through group activities and modeling positive interactions. These foundations help children form friendships and navigate social situations successfully.
Strong Family Partnerships
Stratford believes that learning is most successful when schools and families work together. Parents and school staff work as partners, which is especially crucial when children are young. Through open communication, conferences, and parent involvement, families can stay connected to their child’s growth and experiences. A prime example of this is potty training. Teachers work in partnership with parents to practice potty training throughout their early preschool year, providing students with the time and flexibility they need to become accustomed to the process so that they feel comfortable and secure to take the next step. Early preschoolers also benefit from practicing this new skill alongside their peers, as it helps build confidence and can ease the pressure they may feel when learning something new.
Stratford parent Tyrone Batilo shares his experience, “Our son has been enjoying his time at EPS so much! He loves the spacious classroom and the variety of manipulatives he works with every day. They are rotated regularly, and his creativity really shines. His teachers are very attentive and always keep Procare updated with the most current rundown of the day’s activities. When we ask, “School?” he answers, “Yes,” with a huge smile on his face. My wife and I are thrilled with the improvements he’s showing. He’s talking now. He was diagnosed with a speech delay, so the exposure has really helped him improve his speech. We are eternally grateful. This program is the best: clean, caring, safe, rich, and thriving!”
Learn more about Stratford’s Early Preschool, Elementary, and Middle School and Mandarin Bilingual PS/PK/KG programs at their upcoming Open House on October 25. Register for the Open House at StratfordSchools.com/open-house or schedule a personal tour at your convenience by emailing altadena@stratfordschools.com.
