PLAY WITH US
We provide a safe, encouraging environment for toddlers to explore & grow!
“Choosing a school for our toddler was such an important decision. This precious and challenging moment in their development is so tender. Tiny Topa felt like a dream come true setting for our 1 year old.”
Come
Play!
Let’s
Learn!
OUR VISION
What makes us different?
Tiny Topa Toddler School focuses on the youngest of learners. We believe the wonder of toddlers ages 18-36 months deserves the same attention as older preschoolers. Inspired by the philosophies of Maria Montessori* and Magda Gerber's RIE Method*, our school provides a safe, engaging, nurturing environment to foster confidence in our young students. The environment is Scandinavian*(neutral tones and wooden open-ended toys) providing many opportunities for organic play. The outdoor play space is naturally landscaped with many exploration opportunities.
*Montessori is a method created with the needs of individual children in mind. It provides freedom and independence within a structured environment and respects the natural development of the brain as well as individual needs and interests. Montessori is a preparation for life.
*Magda Gerber's RIE Philosophy - Basic Principles
The basis of Magda's Gerber's RIE philosophy is respect for, and trust in the baby to be an initiator, an explorer, and a self-learner. Magda encouraged parents and caregivers to provide:
An environment for the child that is physically safe, cognitively challenging and emotionally nurturing.
Time for uninterrupted play.
Freedom to explore and interact with other infants.
Involvement of the child in all care activities to allow the child to become an active participant rather than a passive recipient.
Sensitive observation of the child to understand his or her needs. Consistency, clearly defined limits, and expectations to develop discipline.
Meet Miss Beth
I have been working with young children for over 20 years, with experience ranging from the infant room to the administrative office. My passion for early toddler learning and exploration through play is why I founded the Tiny Topa Toddler School. I feel even the youngest learners thrive in an environment through open-ended play. Inspired by the teachings of Maria Montessori and Magda Gerber's RIE method I believe my experience, passion, and education will provide a safe play space for growth for children and parents.
Kind Words
“Choosing a school for our toddler was such an important decision. This precious and challenging moment in their development is so tender. Tiny Topa felt like a dream come true setting for our 1 year old: familial, inviting, engaging, structured, flexible, cozy. Our daughter spent two beautiful years learning and growing at Tiny Topa and now we are seeing how perfectly it set her up for Pre-K, all while allowing us to slow down and enjoy the fleeting moment of toddlerhood. Beth cares deeply about her students and their families and her support meant the world to us. We are very proud Tiny Topa alums forever! Thank you Beth and Tiny Topa team for all you do!”
-Marisa Peck Johnson
“My son started with Miss Beth at 16 months old and she has been absolutely incredible with him. The kids adore her and she makes everyone feel so safe and comfortable. She makes Tiny Topa a fun and exciting place to learn and grow. He was so excited to go every single morning and grew so much during his time there. The other teachers, Shawna and Daisy are beyond incredible too! Could not rave about them all more. Highly highly recommend TT!!!”
-Nicole Humphreys
“Tiny Topas! We were fortunate to have Beth and her amazing, caring staff for two years. My daughter would come home with the sweetest art projects and songs to sing. Beth taught her to get dirty, dance and be creative. This small school was exactly what Tiny needed to feel safe and to explore new people and things. It was a great introduction to socializing, learning, and school in general. Our transition to "big girl school" was seamless because Beth and her staff made Tiny feel confident. It was hard to leave!
Thanks Beth! Wishing you the best school year!”
-Meaghan and Josie Conrad
”Beth created the most nurturing environment for our daughter’s first experience at “school”. It was the first place she was dropped off to be watched outside of our home and Beth and her staff made her (and Me) feel so comfortable. Beth puts so much love and creativity into the program and it shows in how much the children enjoy it and blossom over the course of the year.”
- McCall Marshall
