Philosophy

We believe children thrive in a child-centered environment where they are able to learn about themselves, their world, and others through play. We know that children yearn for learning opportunities that reflect an understanding of their interests, their lives, and their development. Our curriculum is inspired by the educational approach used in the schools of Reggio Emilia, Italy. The Reggio approach is committed to the creation of conditions for learning through expressive, communicative, and cognitive languages.

Our Program

• M, T, W, Th, 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM
• 3 or 4 days/week options
• Small group size of 9 children
• Adult to child ratio of 1:4/5
• Practice peaceful conflict resolution skills
• Celebrate the ways we are similar and different; embrace nature’s rhythms
• 10-month school year, following the Seattle Public School’s calendar
• Tuition:
  • $447/month for 3-days/week
  • $580/month for 4-days/week
• Registration Fee: $50 annually

A typical day at Willa might include:

– making mud pies in the back yard
– nibbling on various plants from the edible garden
– building a huge tower together during free-play time
– making observations about an object and painting what they see
– working with their teacher to bake “ABC” (apple-banana-carrot) muffins using ingredients fresh from the garden
– taking a walk to visit the enormous neighborhood chestnut tree
– singing and dancing along to songs on the ukulele during meeting time
– summiting the climbing structures in the yard
– birdwatching on the front porch
– looking at leaves under a microscope
– learning how to make (and eat!) homemade dumplings
– laughing with glee as they re-enact a funny story their teacher read