Is The Mulberry Tree right for my family?
What are the days and hours ?
The Mulberry Tree has flexible hours to meet the needs of children and families. We offer half-day, full day, and 9AM – 5PM options, an after-school program, hourly late/early care, and a Friday program that we believe is one of highlights a child’s experience at The Mulberry Tree. For children enrolled in the Preschool Program, the minimum commitment is Monday – Thursday from 9AM to 1:00PM.
WHAT AGES DO YOU SERVE ?
Our curriculum and materials are appropriate to preschool and lower elementary ages. Children are ready to thrive in our program when they have the capacity to explore independently and to cooperate with other children. Most children transition to this stage by 2.5 years of age.
WHAT ABOUT CHILDREN WITH SPECIAL NEEDS ?
The Mulberry Tree believes in the potential of all children. We welcome every child we can serve in a safe and loving environment. We believe our combination of high standards, flexible programming, and teacher accountability is especially beneficial to Double-Exceptional (2E) children.
Are vaccinations required?
California state law requires that children in care have a plan for vaccination approved by a physician for all licensed facilities. The vaccination schedule may differ from that recommended by the state.
what is your child/staff ratio?
Either 3:1 or 4:1, trained Mulberry Tree staff, nearly all credentialed teachers (not aides) and 50% with advanced degrees. Children have abundant opportunities to work independently, in peer groups, and individually with teachers. All teachers work outside of classroom hours in planning, reflection, documentation, and communicating with parents.
As part of our commitment to the next generation of Early Childhood teachers, we sometimes mentor vaccinated, background-checked teaching interns. Teaching interns are not counted in staffing ratios. They add to our community without taking resources from your child.
IS IT AFFORDABLE ? WHAT IS INCLUDED ?
At The Mulberry Tree, we are committed to premium programming and premium materials at a moderate price. We include high quality, organic lunch and snack (currently sourced at the Mar Vista Farmers’ Market) in the cost of tuition. Music Together plus an MLT-aligned music program are offered at no additional cost.
Need-based financial assistance is available to qualified families. We accept payment from agencies such as Connections for Children and Crystal Stairs.
We understand that the cost of quality care is a significant expense for most families. We strive to bring families the highest value possible in teaching, programming, and materials.