Philosophy
In the middle of the 20th century, Dr. Spoke, Maria Montessori, and the Reggio Emilia approach helped shape the philosophy of child development. However, we realized that the socioeconomic makeup of Los Angeles makes it a unique place, and we decided that it would be best to take parts of these theories and combine them for our center. Dreamland philosophy is one based upon positive reinforcement for improved social interaction and active involvement for academic progress.
We plan activities that involve children working individually as well as in small and large groups. We encourage children to explore the environment while being kind, considerate, and respectful of the rights of others.
We use an academic and developmental approach.
The teachers introduce concepts of language, science, and mathematics through play and activities that are familiar to children, such as music, the arts, and sports.
We do realize that we need to prepare our children for the academic challenges that will await them in the near future, but what is more important is that we want to plant a seed of creativity.
The Dreamland Difference: A Day of Discovery
At Dreamland, every day is a new adventure waiting to unfold. From the moment your child steps into our sun-drenched Santa Monica center, they are immersed in an environment designed for joyful learning. Our balanced schedule weaves together focused group activities and free-form exploration, ensuring children have the space to follow their curiosity. They might begin their day collaborating on a group art project, then move to an outdoor garden to observe a butterfly, or settle into a cozy corner with a book. We believe this rhythm—blending structure with freedom—is the key to nurturing independent and confident learners. It’s not just about what they learn, but how they feel while learning: safe, inspired, and deeply valued.
Beyond ABCs: Our Holistic Curriculum
While we are committed to preparing children for kindergarten and beyond, our curriculum is so much more than rote memorization. It’s a carefully crafted blend of traditional academic concepts and vital social-emotional skills. Our hands-on approach brings subjects to life—a science lesson on buoyancy becomes a water play experiment, and a math concept like sorting becomes a treasure hunt for different shapes. Just as importantly, our teachers use every interaction as an opportunity for social-emotional growth. We guide children in navigating friendships, sharing their feelings, and resolving conflicts with kindness. This holistic method ensures that your child develops not only a foundation for academic success but also the empathy, resilience, and compassion to thrive in a complex world.
Our Mission in Action: Fostering Lifelong Learners
Our mission extends far beyond the time your child spends with us. We are dedicated to planting a seed of creativity and a lifelong love for learning that will continue to grow long after they leave our care. We see ourselves as partners in your family's journey, working collaboratively to achieve common goals. Our commitment is to provide a supportive and positive environment where children feel seen, heard, and celebrated for their unique strengths. We are not just a childcare center; we are a community that champions every child’s potential, encouraging them to be active, engaged, and respectful members of society. By nurturing their minds and inspiring their hearts, we help them build the foundation for a future filled with endless possibilities.
Learning Center Schedule
In our center, all kids from babies to pre-K groups follow a routine. Children love routine. It helps them develop strong emotional and physical well-being. The timeline below will give you a general idea of what the children are doing at the center.