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December 2023 by Jasemin L.
My Son is 3 and has been attending here since December 2022. He absolutely loves the school and has a great bond with each of the teachers, as well as the children. It is a very special community and a lovely space. The property itself is a California Craftsman cottage which is kitted out like a dream play house for little people. The outdoor areas have lots to keep the children engaged. Including a terrapin called Downtown, and a nearly 100 year old Tortoise called Freddie. There are birds in the house, so the children get to learn about caring for animal friends. Each week I am given artwork which my son has created, in keeping with seasonal and holiday happenings. The staff here are kind, nurturing and patient. They are clearly invested in the children. I feel like my family are in very good hands here.
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September 2023 by Irene P.
Our son loved First Step from the moment he toured the school. He never had a tough transition starting preschool, and from talking to other parents, their children also had a very easy transition to preschool at First Step. There is a real sense of community amongst the teachers and parents. All of the teachers, and the director of the school, Ina, are amazing, and they adore the children. I know of at least three children at the school whose dad or mom also went to First Step, and I think that is the best testament to the school's excellence.
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August 2023 by Katia Zeynoun
Our son is so happy at First Step, and I recommend it to all of our friends in the Venice/Santa Monica area. The teachers are incredible and so nurturing. They are gems. I can see my child’s confidence and curiosity grow every day. Another wonderful aspect is the sense of community. Parents can linger in the yard and often stop to chat at drop off. I highly recommend it to anyone considering sending their 2 year old to daycare/preschool,
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August 2023 by David Goodman
We have our 2.5 year old enrolled at First Step and cannot express how incredibly happy we are (and he is as well). All of the the teachers are incredibly kind and have such an incredible way of interacting with the children. They are like jedis! The location is great, feels like a community treasure. We have a 3 month old and when he is of age, we will for sure enroll him at First Step.
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August 2023 by Liesel F.
The children at First Step are happy, joyous and free to explore the world at their own pace. The teachers are kind and creative. They clearly love their jobs and working together. A positive place, a warm and accepting place, a place you and your child never forget.
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December 2021 by Jay G.
We loved First Step! Both of our sons loved it there. We think it produces the happiest and nicest kids around!
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July 2020 by Melinda Russell Prater
First Step is a truly unique place. We have moved around a lot in the last few years and this is our oldest daughter's third preschool. They have ranged from the more modern facilities to the homier feel that First Step provides. Our now 4 year old felt right at home from day one. We went for a tour and I could barely get her out the door when it was time to go. I could tell she just felt so comfortable there, and after moving so much- that was very important to me. Ina and her wonderful teachers understand what young children need and they have all been there for years which I think says a lot. I have also met several parents who went to First Step as kids, and are now sending their own which I think is pretty cool. I have noticed a spark in my daughter's curiosity, and I love how play, imagination and creativity are encouraged. And they get to spend much of the day outdoors beneath the shady trees. She has made many friends and is excited to go to school each day.
My youngest is almost 2 and has just begun the Bridge program ( Pt for 2-3yr olds). She attended the toddler group prior to this and grew more comfortable in the space, and I think she likes going to "school" like her big sister. We are currently in the separation process, and though it is not easy (especially with a child deep in the throes of separation anxiety) I feel grateful that they use a gentle, gradual method and really try to get to know and understand each child. I have already seen her opening up more and engaging with the teachers and kids.
I also feel I should mention another important aspect of First Step- community. To me it is a huge part of what makes First Step special. It's not just a place I drop off my kids. There is an open door policy so you'll often see parents observing their kids or chatting with one another, and families whose kids have outgrown preschool often come back to visit. We have made such lovely friends in a short time, and met families from all over the world. It has really been a warm, welcoming place for us.
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July 2018 by Bari Lorenz
Best nurturing environment ever love friendship and teaching abundant
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July 2012 by Rachel Debaets
First Step Nursery School has given our children a home away from home.
