Business Details
18 Years
experience
Home-Based Preschool & Daycare in Redondo Beach, CA
Michelle's Backyard was founded in 2008 with a commitment to providing a nurturing environment where children aged 6 months to 4 years can thrive. Our program emphasizes outdoor, play-based learning that aligns with Developmentally Appropriate Practice (DAP), fostering social, emotional, and academic growth. With two decades of experience serving South Bay and Beach Cities families, we prioritize nonviolent parenting and emotional intelligence to create a safe, loving space for children.Our multi-age setting encourages natural social development, while enrichment activities like yoga, music, and field trips enhance holistic learning. We partner closely with parents to ensure each child receives personalized care and support, preparing them to enter school as confident, capable individuals.
Services
Preschool Program
Daycare Services
Outdoor Play-Based Curriculum
Enrichment Activities
Field Trips
Nonviolent Parenting Approach
Multi-Age Setting
Emotional Development Focus
Social Skills Development
Curriculum Planning
Details
- Year established: 2008
Highlights and features
- We offer a play-based curriculum aligned with Developmentally Appropriate Practice (DAP).
- Our staff includes a certified Outdoor Classroom Specialist with a Child Development Permit.
- We prioritize nonviolent parenting to nurture emotional intelligence in children.
- Enrichment activities like yoga, music, and field trips are included at no extra cost.
- Two decades of experience serving South Bay and Beach Cities families.
What people say
Boundless energy
Infectious positive spirit
Tailored activities
Supportive community
Emotional development focus
Services
Preschool Program
Our preschool program serves children aged 2 to 4 years, focusing on play-based learning that aligns with Developmentally Appropriate Practice (DAP). We emphasize language, literacy, and pre-mathematical concepts through hands-on activities. The curriculum encourages exploration, creativity, and social interaction in a multi-age setting.
Daycare Services
Daycare services cater to children aged 6 months to 4 years, providing a safe, nurturing environment for daily care and development. Activities are tailored to each child's developmental stage, promoting emotional intelligence and social skills. The program includes structured play and outdoor exploration to support holistic growth.
Outdoor Play-Based Curriculum
This curriculum integrates outdoor exploration with academic concepts, allowing children to learn through nature and play. Activities include water play, gardening, and sensory experiences that foster curiosity and problem-solving skills. The approach strengthens physical development and environmental awareness in a joyful setting.
Enrichment Activities
Enrichment activities include yoga, gymnastics, music, and cooking, designed to enhance motor skills, creativity, and cognitive development. These programs are included at no extra cost and occur during regular school hours. Field trips extend learning beyond the classroom, connecting children to their community.
Nonviolent Parenting Approach
Our nonviolent parenting philosophy prioritizes empathy, connection, and emotional intelligence in guiding children's behavior. We teach conflict resolution and self-regulation through positive reinforcement and modeling. This approach builds trust between children, families, and caregivers, fostering a supportive community.
People
Michelle Dickinson
Founder
Michelle Dickinson founded Michelle's Backyard in 2008 after earning her Child Development Program Director Permit. Certified as an Outdoor Classroom Specialist, she combines play-based learning with nonviolent parenting to create a nurturing environment for children and families.
Questions
What age groups do you serve?
We serve children aged 6 months to 4 years in a multi-age setting that promotes social and emotional growth.
What is your curriculum philosophy?
Our play-based curriculum follows Developmentally Appropriate Practice (DAP), emphasizing exploration, creativity, and emotional intelligence through outdoor and project-based learning.
Are enrichment activities included?
Yes! Yoga, music, gymnastics, and cooking are included at no extra cost during regular school hours.
Do you offer field trips?
We organize 4+ field trips annually, including in-house visits and community outings, with advance notice and permission slips.
How do you handle communication with parents?
We maintain open communication through updates on activities, progress reports, and prompt responses to address concerns or questions.
