Business Details
Play-Based Preschool in Carlsbad, CA
At Highland Preschool, we redefine success as wealth in well-being through play-based, Reggio-inspired education. Our approach empowers children aged 2-TK to become lifelong learners by fostering curiosity, creativity, and critical thinking. With over 10,000 hours of collective educator experience and a leadership team boasting two decades of expertise, we prioritize holistic development through exploration and relationship-driven learning. Our lush 3/4-acre campus in Carlsbad, CA, serves as an extension of the classroom, offering immersive environments like our vegetable garden, mud kitchen, and art atelier. We maintain small class sizes to ensure personalized attention, guided by educators trained in child development, CPR, and First Aid.Since our founding, we have impacted over 2,000 families, emphasizing environmental stewardship, community engagement, and emotional intelligence. Our programs, available year-round, include flexible scheduling options to accommodate diverse family needs. We partner with local organizations like Return Co. and Communal Flowers to enrich our curriculum and promote sustainability. Our commitment to educator well-being ensures a supportive, collaborative teaching environment that translates into exceptional care for every child.
Services
Play-Based Learning
Reggio Emilia Approach
Vegetable & Herb Garden
Mud Kitchen
Atelier Art Studio
Critters Interaction
Highlights and features
- 10,000+ hours of combined educator experience in child development
- Reggio-inspired curriculum fostering curiosity and creativity
- Small class sizes ensuring personalized attention
- Holistic approach integrating nature, art, and community
- Partnerships with local organizations for enriched learning
Services
Play-Based Learning
Our play-based approach empowers children to explore interests through hands-on activities. Educators guide discovery, fostering critical thinking and social skills. This method builds confidence and a lifelong love of learning.
Reggio Emilia Approach
Inspired by Reggio Emilia, our curriculum prioritizes child-led inquiry and environmental connection. Teachers document progress, adapting lessons to individual needs while nurturing creativity and collaborative problem-solving in natural settings.
Vegetable & Herb Garden
Children learn regenerative agriculture through planting and harvesting. This program teaches sustainability, responsibility, and food origins while developing motor skills and appreciation for nature's cycles.
Mud Kitchen
The mud kitchen encourages imaginative play through sensory exploration. Children develop social skills, language, and critical thinking while engaging in collaborative 'cooking' activities with natural materials.
Atelier Art Studio
Our art studio offers diverse mediums for self-expression. Guided projects and open-ended activities build fine motor skills, patience, and creativity while emphasizing process over product in early childhood development.
People
Mion Ek
Director and Pedagogista
Mion leads with a vision for holistic early childhood education, blending Reggio principles with environmental stewardship. She mentors educators and designs curricula that prioritize child-led discovery and community connection.
Hannah Lott-Schwartz
Business Manager
Hannah oversees admissions and operations, ensuring seamless program delivery. Her focus on family engagement and sustainable practices supports Highland's mission of nurturing well-rounded, curious learners.
Rachel
Preschool Educator
Rachel fosters collaborative learning through play, emphasizing empathy and creativity. Her approach creates a supportive environment where children explore interests and build confidence through hands-on experiences.
Megan
TK Educator
Megan guides students with patience and innovation, integrating nature and art into daily learning. She builds strong relationships with children and families, promoting growth through joyful, inquiry-based activities.
Kizzy
Support Educator
Kizzy brings warmth and adaptability to her teaching, supporting diverse learning styles. Her experience enriches classroom dynamics, creating a nurturing space where every child feels valued and empowered.
Questions
What age groups do you serve?
We serve children aged 2 through Transitional Kindergarten (TK) in Carlsbad, CA.
What is your educational philosophy?
We use a play-based, Reggio Emilia-inspired approach emphasizing child-led exploration and holistic development.
Are part-time schedules available?
Yes! Choose 2-day, 3-day, or 5-day weekly options with flexible monthly commitments.
Do you offer financial assistance?
We accept CDA/YMCA subsidies and offer need-based support to qualifying families.
How do I schedule a tour?
Contact us via our website or call (760) 936-6722 to arrange a personalized campus visit.
What safety measures are in place?
All staff have CPR/First Aid certifications, background checks, and ongoing child development training.
Reviews (5)
Dyana S.
Sep 05, 2021
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Definitely not for everyone. Our son came home with cuts and scratches all over his body from his feet, arm and stomach. He was so filthy we had to wipe him down at the facility and change his clothes. In addition we had to throw away his clothes he worn to the school. Not to mention his pull up was saturated with urine and hadn't been changed in the five hours he was there. The same number of pull ups I put in his bag were still in his backpack when we returned. The response from the school when I questioned them about the way our son was returned to us was:
"Children are encouraged
"Children are encouraged
Katie B.
Aug 10, 2021
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Homeroom saves the day again! My care provider was ill last minute and Cassie and Homeroom saved me from calling out sick at a brand new job. I was able to make a reservation Sunday afternoon for Monday. Their new facility is amazing! Lots of outdoor space and my kids had a great time. Thank you Homeroom for being there for me in a bind! My kids can't wait to come back. Wonderful communication with staff, can't say thank you enough!
Daniel P.
Jan 17, 2021
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Homeroom is the best hourly child care I have ever seen. Professional and friendly staff that truly care and love what they do. I can't say enough good things about Homeroom it's such a great place with so many fun things for all ages. If I could give more than 5 stars I would!!
Serah E.
Oct 18, 2020
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We had a great experience with Homeroom - Miss Cassie is amazing, my daughter always looks forward to seeing her and going to school. The kids do interesting and enriching activities throughout the day. The price is fair and the payment process is simple. I highly recommend!
Kendra L.
Feb 09, 2020
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They did it again! Such a fun time for our girl. She loves it at homeroom! So easy to reach and coordinate with. Highly recommended for last minute date or if you just need a break. Super flexible and most of all our daughter loves it!
