Our Program

We use a positive discipline approach to dealing with misbehavior. We integrate the practices of Conscious Discipline, the Whole Brain Child, and the Pyramid Model. Discipline simply means to teach, so we look at children’s behavior through a lense of how to best teach and guide missing skills. We use techniques such as positive reinforcement, redirection, re-dos, offering choices, and natural and logical consequences.

We use the app Brightwheel to send daily photos, communicate important messages, and for billing. We hold annual parent-teacher conferences in late Fall. Families are also welcome to email, call, or text when needed.

No, children do not need to be potty trained to attend Story Garden. We will work with families to support children in learning to use the toilet when they are developmentally and emotionally ready.

Of course! You are welcome to pick up your child whenever you need to. Please let us know in advance if you need to pick up before our scheduled pick up time so that we can have your child ready to go when you get here.

Story Garden is located in our family home in a residential neighborhood in Martinez. We are licensed as a Large Family Daycare Home by the state of California, allowing us a maximum of 14 children. We utilize our large sun room as our classroom as well as our backyard. Children’s days at Story Garden are structured just like a standard preschool program with intentionally planned curriculum, group activities, and hands-on learning. Because Story Garden is in our home, we take great pride in providing high-quality care that meets the individual needs of children and their families. Our home is your child’s second home.

No. There is no TV in the space used for our program. On rare occasions we might use a short, educational video to learn more about a subject children are interested in, but it is never a part of our standard routine. We believe strongly that children learn best through hands-on experiences, not screens.

No. We do not have a pool at our home, and our yard is fully fenced.

Yes. We have a 9 lb terrier mix named Pickle. He spends time with us while we are outside in the yard and during lunch. He mostly ignores the children, though loves when they throw his ball.

Yes. We are required by our licensing agency, the California Department of Social Services, to only enroll children who are up-to-date on their vaccines. We keep current records of all children’s vaccinations for our annual visits from licensing.