Business Details
Trusted Preschool Program in Long Beach, CA
Lagoon Playgroup is a parent participation preschool dedicated to fostering creativity and independent problem-solving in children. Under the guidance of our experienced Director and Teachers, parents actively engage in classroom activities and school events, creating a collaborative community that supports both children and families. Our program emphasizes outdoor exploration and play-based learning, offering a unique outdoor classroom with hands-on experiences in areas like the mud kitchen, sandbox, and art spaces. We believe in personalized connections with each child, rooted in mutual trust and respect, to nurture their individual growth and development. Our team brings expertise from Reggio-Emilia and Montessori methodologies, ensuring a curriculum that celebrates diversity and encourages self-discovery.With structured preschool classes for four-year-olds and potty-trained three-year-olds, along with parent-toddler sessions, we provide flexible options for early childhood education. The program operates five days a week with tuition rates of $460/month for the Senior class and $365/month for the Junior class. Parent-toddler playgroups are offered in five-week sessions at $130 per session, focusing on child-led exploration and social development. Tours are available during school hours, allowing prospective families to experience our environment firsthand. Our commitment to creating a joyful, supportive space where children thrive has made us a beloved choice for families in Long Beach since our founding.
Services
Preschool Program
Parent Participation
Outdoor Classroom
Toddler Playgroup
School Tours
Highlights and features
- We offer parent-led classroom participation for unique family engagement
- Our outdoor classroom provides daily hands-on learning opportunities
- Experienced educators trained in Reggio-Emilia and Montessori methodologies
- Community-focused approach with family involvement in all activities
- Flexible programs for ages 2-5 with structured preschool options
What people say
Magical place
Nurturing environment
Encourage creativity
Strong community
Child-led exploration
Services
Preschool Program
Structured preschool classes for four-year-olds and potty-trained three-year-olds operating Monday-Friday 9am-1pm. Senior class meets M/W/F with $460/month tuition, Junior class T/Th with $365/month tuition. Programs emphasize play-based learning with two teachers and parent volunteers in each session.
Parent Participation
Active parent engagement through classroom volunteering and school events. Parents participate on assigned work days while their children attend classes. This collaborative approach strengthens family connections and enhances the learning environment through diverse parental contributions and perspectives.
Outdoor Classroom
Expansive outdoor learning environment featuring mud kitchen, sandbox, playhouse, stage, and art areas. Children explore natural elements, test theories, and build social relationships through unstructured play. Spaces designed to stimulate sensory development and creative problem-solving in a natural setting.
Toddler Playgroup
Five-week Saturday sessions for 2-3 year olds with parent participation. Each 90-minute class includes outdoor exploration, light/shadow activities, and structured meeting time with stories and songs. Sessions cost $130 with weather-dependent scheduling and rescheduling options.
School Tours
Guided tours available during school hours with adult-only attendance to avoid classroom disruption. Scheduled Friday mornings from 10am-11am, featuring parent testimonials and director Q&A. Fall 2025 tours begin February 14th with sign-up through direct contact.
People
Adriana Castanon
Executive Director
Child educator with experience in Reggio-Emilia and Montessori preschools. Born in Long Beach, she values diversity and believes in personalized connections with each child. Focuses on mutual trust, respect, and tailored learning experiences to foster growth and lifelong skills.
Katy Foley
Senior Class Teacher
Experienced educator specializing in developmentally appropriate activities and nurturing environments. Combines creative problem-solving with therapeutic approaches. Passionate about child development, process art, gardening, and children's literature through both professional and parenting experiences.
Questions
What age groups do you serve?
We serve children aged 2-5 through our toddler playgroups and preschool programs for potty-trained three-year-olds and four-year-olds.
Is parent participation required?
Yes, our program requires active parent involvement through classroom volunteering and school events as part of our collaborative learning approach.
What is your outdoor classroom like?
Our outdoor space features a mud kitchen, sandbox, playhouse, stage, and art areas designed for sensory exploration and creative play-based learning.
How do tours work?
Guided tours occur during school hours on Fridays. Adult-only attendance ensures minimal disruption, with opportunities to speak with current parents and the director.
What are your tuition rates?
Senior preschool class (4-year-olds) costs $460/month, Junior class (3-year-olds) $365/month, and parent-toddler sessions are $130 per five-week session.
