Our Piaget and Montessori-Based Curriculum
At Mt. Diablo Preschool, we combine the best aspects of Piaget's cognitive development theory and the Montessori method. This unique blend supports each child's intellectual, social, and emotional growth, laying a strong foundation for lifelong learning.
Sensorimotor Stage (Birth to 2 Years)
Montessori Integration: At this stage, infants and toddlers learn primarily through sensory experiences. We provide a rich, safe environment where children can explore textures, sounds, and movement. This sensory-driven approach supports motor development and encourages exploration of the world around them.
Preoperational Stage (2 to 7 Years)
Montessori Integration: In this stage, children develop language and imagination. Our curriculum encourages imaginative play, language development, and self-expression. Children have access to carefully designed Montessori materials that foster cognitive development, helping them move from concrete to more abstract thinking.
Core Principles of Learning and Development
- Child-Centered Learning: Every child is an active participant in their own learning process. We empower them to follow their natural curiosity.
- Respect for Individual Development: Learning is personalized to match each child's developmental stage, allowing them to progress at their own pace.
- Hands-On and Experiential Learning: Children engage with practical life activities, puzzles, and creative materials that stimulate both their minds and senses.
- Social and Emotional Growth: Our curriculum fosters collaboration, empathy, and conflict resolution through group activities and community-building exercises.
Tuition & Fee Schedule
At Mt. Diablo Preschool, we offer flexible scheduling options to meet your family's needs. Below is our fee schedule:
Occasional (Drop-In) Care
Perfect if you only need care here and there and don't want a set weekly schedule.
Part-Time Care
(2–3 days/week)
A great fit if you have a couple of consistent days each week.
Full-Time Care
(5 days/week)
Ideal for families needing regular Monday–Friday coverage.
All plans include our full curriculum, nutritious meals, and individualized care. Contact us to discuss which option best fits your family's needs.
Daily Schedule
Our daily routine provides structure while remaining flexible to accommodate individual needs and energy levels.
Morning Routine
- 7:30 - 8:30 AM: Arrival & Welcome Time (Free Play)
- 8:30 - 9:00 AM: Morning Snack
- 9:00 - 10:00 AM: Structured Learning Activities
- 10:00 - 11:00 AM: Outdoor Play & Nature Exploration
Midday Activities
- 11:00 - 11:30 AM: Story Time & Music
- 11:30 AM - 12:15 PM: Lunch Time
- 12:15 - 2:30 PM: Nap/Quiet Time
Afternoon Schedule
- 2:30 - 3:00 PM: Afternoon Snack
- 3:00 - 4:00 PM: Art & Creative Activities
- 4:00 - 5:00 PM: Free Play & Individual Activities
- 5:00 - 5:30 PM: Clean-up & Preparation for Home
Note: Schedule is flexible and adjusted based on children's needs and energy levels, especially for our younger ones.
Our Capacity and Child-to-Caregiver Ratio
We maintain an intimate setting that prioritizes individual attention, ensuring every child receives the care they need for optimal growth.
Infants (Under 2 Years)
Three infants per caregiver
Older Children (2+ Years)
Three children per caregiver
Benefits of Our Low Ratios:
- Personalized attention that fosters emotional security and intellectual growth
- Close observation of each child's progress and development
- Ability to tailor learning experiences to individual needs
- Strong, trusting relationships between caregivers and children
- Safe, nurturing environment for optimal development
Security and Peace of Mind
Your child's safety is our top priority.
Minimal Foot Traffic
Our preschool maintains minimal foot traffic, ensuring a peaceful and secure environment. The only additional adult presence is Ryan's spouse, Nataly, who works from home a few days each week.
Security Features
- Controlled access to all facilities
- Consistent caregivers for stability
- Regular safety drills and protocols
- Secure, enclosed outdoor play areas
- Clear pickup and drop-off procedures
Get in Touch
We'd love to show you how Mt. Diablo Preschool can support your child's growth and development.
Location
1382 Washington Blvd.
Concord, CA 94521
© 2024 Mt. Diablo Preschool
License & Accreditation
We proudly meet all California state requirements for preschool operations.
Our official license is posted here and on-site. Please feel free to ask any questions regarding our credentials and compliance with state regulations.
Policies & Procedures
At Mt. Diablo Preschool, we strive to create a consistent, nurturing environment for every child—especially when unforeseen circumstances arise. Below are some key guidelines on how we handle sick children, sick caregivers, and what essentials to pack to ensure smooth daily transitions.
Sick Child Policy
We understand that children occasionally fall ill, and we do not wish to burden parents with last-minute cancellations. If your child shows signs of sickness, we will still accept them into care. However, to protect the rest of the group, we have a dedicated, cozy isolation area within our home where the child can rest and be monitored—separate from the others, yet still in a safe, supervised space. Our aim is to minimize the spread of illness while ensuring your child receives the care they need.
Sick Caregiver Policy
In the event that I, as the primary caregiver, become unwell, I will immediately contact parents to discuss the situation. Depending on the severity of the illness, we might arrange for early pick-up or discuss short-term alternatives to ensure your child’s continuity of care. The priority is to maintain a healthy environment for everyone.
Vacation/Closure
One common question is how we handle vacation time or planned closures. In our case, we do not schedule vacations, which means you won’t have to scramble for substitute care or unexpected downtime. Our focus is on providing a dependable schedule for your family.
What to Pack
- Diapers: If your child is not yet potty-trained, please supply enough diapers for the day (plus a few extras just in case).
- Milk or Formula: If your child requires bottled milk or formula, please bring enough for their normal feedings—labeled with your child’s name.
- A Change of Clothes: Children learn through active exploration, which can get messy. Having a spare set of clothes on hand ensures comfort if they spill, paint, or have an accident.
By coming prepared, you help us focus on learning and fun—rather than last-minute supply runs!
Operating Hours
Our preschool is open from Monday through Friday to accommodate your family's schedule.
Daily Operating Hours
- 6:45 AM - 6:00 PM Monday - Friday
We strive to provide flexible hours to meet the needs of working parents while ensuring a safe and nurturing environment for your child.
Why Choose a Home-Based Daycare?
Smaller Ratios, Greater Attention
Research shows that lower child-to-adult ratios lead to more personalized attention, ensuring each child’s needs are met (American Academy of Pediatrics, 2021).
Improved Academic & Social Development
Children thrive academically and socially when given a nurturing, consistent environment with fewer distractions, resulting in better cognitive, language, and social skills (National Institutes of Health, 2023).
Stronger Child-Caregiver Bonds
Home-based settings often encourage a family-like atmosphere, helping children form secure attachments that foster emotional well-being and confidence (NACCRRA, 2019).
Flexible & Consistent Routines
A home daycare can adapt daily routines for each child’s developmental stage and personal needs, providing consistency that supports healthy growth and learning (Smith & Jones, Early Education Journal, 2020).
References
- American Academy of Pediatrics. (2021). Child Care in Home Settings.
- National Institutes of Health. (2023). Early Childhood Education: Impactful Strategies.
- National Association of Child Care Resource & Referral Agencies (NACCRRA). (2019). Why Quality Child Care Matters.
- Smith, A., & Jones, B. (2020). Balancing Child Ratios for Optimal Development. Early Education Journal.
January 23, 2025
From Tantrums to Triumphs: How Emotional Coaching Builds Resilience in 0–4 Year Olds
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January 23, 2025
Small Ratios, Big Benefits: Why Home-Based Preschool Sparks Rapid Growth in Young Learners
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January 19, 2025
Male Caregivers in Early Childhood: Valuing Their Role and Strengths
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I’m currently an Ed.D. candidate in Educational Leadership at Saint Mary’s College of California, and I’ve devoted much of my career to applying research-driven practices that spark children’s curiosity and confidence. My academic background includes a B.A. in Rhetorical Theory from UC Berkeley and an M.A. in Leadership Studies, both of which inform my commitment to creating an inclusive, learner-centered environment. Through Mt. Diablo Preschool, I blend insights from Piaget’s child development theories, Montessori’s hands-on approach, and my own experiences as a father and Marine Corps veteran to nurture each child’s sense of wonder, resilience, and empathy. My goal is to ensure that every child feels safe, loved, and challenged to explore their world—an environment in which families can trust that not only are high safety and health standards met, but that each young learner’s growth is guided by an educator who is as passionate about their future as you are.
- CPR Certified
- First Aid Certified
- Mandated Reporter Training
- Health & Safety Training
- TB Clearance
- Background Check / Fingerprinting
Our daycare is a true extension of our home, shaped by the love Ryan shares with his wife, Nataly, and their daughter, Anahí. We’ve remodeled each area of our home—both indoors and out—to create dynamic, purposeful spaces for children to explore. From art studios where curious minds can dive into paint, to open-air backyard play zones, to a bright, inviting classroom for preschool learning, every square foot flows seamlessly into the next. This way, children can transition naturally from painting to outdoor adventures to structured discovery time. We believe that children flourish in a warm, supportive environment where family values and curiosity grow hand in hand. We’re excited to welcome your little one into our circle and share in the joys of learning and discovery, all under one cozy roof.
RYAN BERG
Founder of Mt. Diablo Preschool
Our Location
We are located at 1382 Washington Blvd. Concord, CA 94521.
Call us at 510-362-4162.
Email us at ryanmberg@proton.me.
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