Barbereux School

As an educator, I can wholeheartedly recommend Barbereux. It's a student centered program with an emphasis on music and self-expression: that means life music exposure at least three times a week. Ms. Veda plays the drums, has kids imagine and visualize new things, makes them invent dance movements, play the drums with her, etc. There is also classical music and songs with the piano -- one in every room. The curriculum is theme-based. The classroom is packed with Montessori-like materials. Every day about 3 stations are set up where kids work on small projects. There are many collective, week long projects, such as building a space ship. Lovely, south-facing playground. It's an 80-year old program, so everything feels completely second-nature, down-to-earth. Very warm, friendly environment.
--Submitted by a parent

I love this school. I had one preschooler in 2001 and one in 2008 and both times was a wonderful experience. This school is both a preschool and daycare which makes it unique. Shana, Valya, and Jan are the 3 best presch. teachers. They are firm with the kids but kind and loving. The curriculum is both structured but allows for sufficient play and freetime so the children's creativity can shine through. The artwork is extensive and the 'science' type activities are cool. Bugs, insects, sea creatures, using vinegar to make 'explosions'... All an everyday experience. The hot lunches are low fat and nutritious. Overall great program!!
--Submitted by a parent

I have a Masters in child development and was extremely picky about where my children went to school. Barbereux is a private school that doesn't feel like a private school. With a music and arts base, these teachers are incredibly creative. In addition, the teachers at The Barbereux school truly understand the concept of learning through play. Their ability to bring children of different backgrounds, family structures, cultures and ability levels is beyond any preschool or day care I have ever seen.
--Submitted by a parent