"I could not imagine a more
ideal setting for my two children. Village Playgarden is a small, intimate community where children truly learn nonviolence in its many forms,
learn to appreciate diverse cultures, are constantly engaged with nature, eat healthy
food, and have a great time. Kikanza is a calm, loving, and inspired teacher who has
played a key role in my childrens' development - we consider ourselves to be very fortunate that we
found Village Playgarden." -- Laura Pulido
"There is no
where I would rather my daughter be when she is not with me.Village Playgarden has embraced Clover into a
magical world where she learns how to live, eat, and play communally, connect
with nature, and interact with adults who have nothing but the utmost respect
for her ever changing needs.I am so
grateful to have Kikanza in my daughter's life.The grace, intention, respect, and love she brings to her work is awe
inspiring."
-- Kelly Dietzen
"Kikanza and Village Playgarden are an oasis for my
daughter and our family. She blends Waldorf Home Schooling, Ruth
Beaglehole's nonviolent, empathic paradigm, diversity, respect and expert child
development into a enchanting program for preschoolers. The
indoor/ outdoor play areas are idyllic. They garden, play in nature,
explore art and crafts and sing songs, engage in storytelling. Oh, I can't
forget to mention the live, nutrient rich organic lunch and snacks cooked fresh
every day. I walk in hearing her singing or squealing in playful jubilation.
There is no sound more satisfying for this working mother."
--Alisa Donner
"Kikanza Ramsey is a steady, beautiful presence
in the
classroom. The love and care with which she holds the children make her
the only teacher we trust to take over our classes when we need a
substitute.
She's the best."
Village Playgarden, located in North Pasadena, is a holistic preschool-kindergarten program and community for children ages 2 years 9 months through 6 years old, where learning, creativity, and caring take place in a loving home environment. As part of the Village Playgarden community, parents can breathe and be in the moment because they know their children are being well cared for and holistically encouraged in their journey of self-discovery.
Village Playgarden is influenced by:
attachment parenting, non-violent, education and parenting, learning through play, and nature-based learning
Respect for children's voices and their various learning styles and sensibilities
Exposure to foriegn language, Spanish included in the daily program
Imaginative stories, exploration of nature, expressive movement, music
Organic wholesome food provided (snack and lunch) Non-toxic environment
Natural toys, lots of outdoor space to play, run, jump, climb, and explore
Creativity, cooking, handwork, and gardening encouraged
At Village Playgarden we aspire to create community and offer support for families who are looking for a place where their children can play, create, explore, and engage their own magic. Children will be gently supported in social interactions, carefully brought into awareness of the world in which they live, and lovingly taught reverence and respect for all living beings and the environment.
While the Village Playgarden program is influenced by some specific philosophies, the curriculum is rooted in love; love for children, love for creating community, love for nature and the environment, and love for the possibility of a healthy peaceful world.
