Who we are
Calendar
The children are always up to something new. Stay updated on our events and schedules by continuously visiting our online calendar.
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Curriculum
With a student-teacher ratio of 9:1, we embrace the understanding that early childhood education lays the foundation for a child's self-confidence and later learning. We focus on promoting social, emotional, physical and cognitive development.
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Voices of Students and Faculty
Culture in blossom
"When we were looking at preschools, there were many things about Little Dolphins that seemed to set it apart: the intentional, inspired, multicultural curriculum, the quality and complexity of their art projects. But it wasn't until our daughter had spent a few weeks as a new student that I truly understood that the entire atmosphere is transformative for a child. The unique qualities we first detected are certainly integral to the experience, but the most amazing thing is the teachers. Each one is perceptive and caring and freely expresses his or her energy and affection for the kids. And my daughter, who is by nature reserved and somewhat shy, has blossomed as a result. That's when I fully realized how lucky we were to be in such a special place. I can't sing Little Dolphin's praises enough."
Kathleen Macomber,
current parent of Little dolphins
A dream come true
"Our experience at Little Dolphins has been extraordinary. From the kind and loving teachers and staff members to the incredibly supportive and generous parents to the thoughtful and caring children with whom our son has become fast friends, the school has been a dream come true."
Jeffrey and Kimberly Goldman,
Little Dolphins parents
A days adventure
"Since coming to this magical place, Little Dolphins, our son Jake has blossomed and thrived in ways that were unimaginable to my husband and me. Little Dolphins by the Sea is a pre-school where a child's imagination and soul come alive and flourish. The learning philosophy of the school is reflected in Jake's spirited smile every day I pick him up from school - his eyes full of a day's adventure, his clothing splattered with colorful paint, his mind overflowing with thoughtful and insightful questions about the world which surrounds him. The festivals at Little Dolphins celebrate the rich cultural curriculum that each child is immersed in every month. The one-of-a-kind staff treats every child with the utmost dignity and respect, teaching them that their feelings and emotions are of supreme importance."
Dr. Jenni Silberstein
The Dolphine experience
"Few things in life exceed our expectations. Little Dolphins went so far beyond my expectations that everyday for 4 years I felt a profound sense of fortune and appreciation that I was a part of such a magical and nurturing community.
The philosophy of instilling a lifelong love of learning and a love of nature and the arts was a very important aspect in our decision to apply. I truly feel that the first exposure to school, learning, teachers and a community of education makes an indelible mark on the inner life of a child. I know it did with my 2 daughters. I watched them blossom in an environment of pure love and dedication of outstanding teachers and staff. I watched them develop kindness and a sense of caring about those around them.
The exposure to other cultures, to me, is the antidote to racism. I saw children learn to love and respect other cultures through immersion in the art music and food. None of it seemed foreign or weird. This all occurs, by the way, through a detailed highly structured curriculum prepared with tremendous effort and love by the teachers. Based on the ideals of the school's founders, the curriculum is highly structured but feels extremely organic and flows with ease so the children only experience the process and the joy of what they are learning and experiencing.
The sense of community at Little Dolphins is extremely rare, especially in LA. Everyone is part of the school and participates based on their own unique talent. I have never been a joiner, but my husband and I found our lives deeply enriched by contributing even in small ways and by the wonderful friendships we developed.
My children are now in elementary school but the foundation that they built at Little Dolphins is apparent everyday. They adore school. They adore learning. It may seem like a small step but the seeds of a peaceful world start in the hearts of the next generations, the children. As I said, few things in life exceed our expectations. Little Dolphins is an uncommon and rare exception."
Mary Jo and Mitchell Hurwitz,
alumni parents
The voices of children
"I really, really like my teachers, playing with my friends, snack-time, circle-time, and going to All-Stars after school."
"I want to go to Little Dolphins, too, and play on the swings!"
Nathaniel Goldman, age 3 3/4 and
Madeleine Goldman, age 2 1/2
From young to old
"We feel lucky that we have the opportunity to participate in our grandchildren's pre-school experience. We always feel welcome and part of the Little Dolphins family. We travel here from New York and one of our favorite things to do is come to morning circle and sing songs from around the world. Celebrating Grandmother and Grandfathers Day have been particularly special for us. If only a pre-school like this had existed when our children were young!"
"Ammy" & "Koko",
grandparents of Dylan & Jordan
The photos of each individual story is not a depiction of its author, merely a descriptive element of the story's main subject.
We are a school where mutual respect and concern for our world is translated into action. Consistent with our mission of environmental education we are executing an adaptive re-use of the existing building from its current use to one appropriate for early childhood education.
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How to apply?
Little Dolphins By The Sea is accepting applications for the 2008-09 school year on a rolling basis. If you think you would like to join us, please contact the Little Dolphins office for an application.
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