Montessori-Inspired Program
Independence, natural materials, and child-led exploration. Each child works at their own developmental rhythm in a prepared environment.
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A Montessori-inspired in-home daycare with a lower child-to-staff ratio. Wipes and nutritious meals included. State assistance accepted. Part-time preferred — full-time considered depending on age.
Birchwood Cottage is a small, home-based daycare in a quiet Oakland neighborhood — built on the conviction that the early years deserve more than a busy classroom can give. Lower child-to-staff ratios mean every child gets seen, every day. Our approach is Montessori-inspired: natural materials, child-led exploration, and an environment designed for independence at each developmental stage. Weekly music lessons and monthly baking classes round out the rhythm of the week — practical life skills and joyful, body-moving learning, side by side. Wipes, nutritious meals, and snacks are included. State assistance is accepted. Hours are 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM. We are accepting families starting August 31, 2026 — part-time preferred, full-time considered depending on age. This is a rare opening.
Independence, natural materials, and child-led exploration. Each child works at their own developmental rhythm in a prepared environment.
Independent exploration with purposeful, natural learning materials. Wooden toys, real tools, and open-ended play that builds focus and confidence.
Interactive, body-moving musical exploration. Singing, simple instruments, and movement — joy first, technique grows from there.
Practical life skills: measure, mix, and create. Children participate in real cooking — pouring, stirring, and tasting what they made.
All meals and snacks are included — wholesome, home-prepared, and shared together at a child-sized table.
An in-home setting means fewer children per caregiver — more individual attention, gentler transitions, and a real sense of being known.
Have a question, or ready to get started? We'd love to hear from you.
Tell us a little about your child — age, preferred schedule (part-time or full-time), and your desired start date. We'll get back to you to set up an in-person tour.