Oakland, CA

To see Department of Social Services records on this facility, click on its DSS Facility License # below.

Type:
Home-Based Daycare/Preschool
DSS Facility License #
Owner:
Avery Thornton
(530) 220-7483
averythornton2 [at] aol.com
Location:
Oakland
Golden Gate
Maximum Capacity:
8
Language(s) Spoken:
English
Ages Served:
24 months - 72 months
Hours
7:30am - 4:30pm
Additional Services & Features:
Pre-K program,
Year-round,
Lunch provided,
Snacks provided,
Organic options
About the Program:

Play based, child centered, Reggia Emilia inspired preschool

Parent Reviews

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We loved Chitta preschool from the moment we walked in the door. Beautiful music plays in the background. A fish tank bubbles in a corner. Soft sunlight warms the wood floors. Avery's entire home, not just one or two rooms, has been completely transformed for small children to explore, be comfortable, play make believe, and romp around in so many ways. There's a huge backyard with a playhouse, water play options, gardens, child size patio tables, a climbing play structure, trampoline, worms, mud, finger paint, where the kids spend time every day of the year rain or shine. We are sure we will not find another childcare provider as committed to the children's well being as Avery. She goes out of her way to make sure the kids get to experience the full spectrum of childhood joy. Rainy day? Float boats in the puddles! Pet the dog! Do downward dog! Play dress up! Swing on the swing! Help Avery make banana bread! Play musical instruments together! Create with the entire wall of craft supplies! All Chitta's toys are wood, not plastic, no sugar is allowed, the water the kids drink has a hint of lemon, reusable materials are used as much as possible, and no one blinked an eye when we asked to use our cloth diapers for our daughter. Avery teaches the kids to share, to not grab, to use words to express their desires, to be kind and compassionate people. My husband and I joke that we think Avery is actually a reincarnated saint to be so capable with a pack of 6 two year olds all day long. What I'm getting at is that Avery goes above and beyond to create an environment where kids thrive. She's a person who lives her values. It would be easier for her to require us parents to pack cold lunches. Instead she individually heats up each child's meal on her stove (no microwave!) at lunchtime. We are so deeply grateful that our daughter's first experience of preschool (and being away from home without her parents) is such a wholesome one. She loves school. We hope this early experience continues to shine through all her life. Thanks so much Avery!