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Frequently asked questions
Our teachers track how each child is growing using the California DRDP continuum. You will receive digital updates about your child's day, alongside regular insights into how they are progressing academically and socially through the MAE curriculum
Because MAE is reverse-mapped directly from K-12 standards (including Common Core foundations), it ensures your child isn't just socially ready for school, but academically ahead. Our students regularly enter kindergarten and first-grade possessing an advanced grasp of reading foundations, mathematical logic, and emotional self-regulation.
The MAE framework is built on a Universal Design for Learning (UDL) model. Because our activities are open-ended and experience-based rather than rigid worksheets, they have a "low floor and a high ceiling." This means an activity can be easily adapted by the teacher in real-time, offering extra support for a child who needs it, or adding a more complex problem-solving layer for a child who is ready for a greater challenge.
Absolutely. In fact, emotional security is our very first priority. Drawing from Abraham Maslow’s educational principles, the MAE framework acknowledges that academic learning cannot happen without a secure emotional foundation. Our curriculum includes dedicated daily routines for community-building, identifying feelings, and practicing self-regulation, ensuring children build the emotional resilience required for lifelong academic success.
Instead of teaching subjects in isolation, MAE uses high-quality children's literature as "Anchor Books" to anchor our monthly themes. A single storybook becomes the launchpad for a whole week of integrated discovery. For example, a book about a harvest festival will inspire hands-on math (counting seeds), science (exploring plant life cycles), language arts (vocabulary from the story), and creative arts (building festival props).
At the preschool level, project-based learning simply means exploring a big, real-world question through hands-on experiences over time. Instead of doing a standalone, 10-minute craft that is quickly forgotten, our students work together on a larger goal—like transforming a corner of the classroom into a mock campground or planning a school picnic. This keeps children deeply engaged, teaches teamwork, and gives abstract concepts (like measurement or writing) a meaningful, real-world context.
For infants and toddlers, MAE focuses on sensory-rich and physical milestones (like texture tracking or personal care). As they enter our TK, Kindergarten, and School-Age programs, MAE evolves into project-based learning—such as building mock marketplaces or scientific structures—ensuring math and reading are learned through real-world experience rather than static worksheets.
Our toddler, and TK/Kindergarten programs are offered across our locations (View Park Windsor Hills, D Street, and 40th Street).
Our nurturing infant program runs at D Street San Bernardino and ire Park Windsor Hills.
Our dedicated School-Age after-school care and school transportation system operates exclusively out of our 40th Street San Bernardino hub.
Absolutely! We highly encourage families to visit us. Seeing our "Learning by Doing" philosophy in action and meeting our passionate educators is the best way to feel confident about your choice. You can click the Book a Tour to set up a private, stress-free walkthrough.
The safety of your child is our absolute priority. Our campuses feature secure, monitored entry points and children will only ever be released to parents, guardians, or individuals explicitly listed on your authorized pickup form.
No, you can cross meal prep off your nightly to-do list! We provide fresh, nutritious breakfasts, lunches, and afternoon snacks daily in line with strict federal nutritional guidelines. If your child is in our infant program, we will coordinate closely with you regarding their specific formula, breastmilk, or pureed food needs.
We know that starting a new routine can bring big emotions for both children and parents. Our educators are highly trained to handle tears with empathy and patience. We focus on building a connection with your child, easing them into the daily routine with hands-on activities so they quickly learn that Oak Tree is a safe and fun space.
We proudly welcome alternative payment and state-funded programs (such as CALWorks, CCRC, TANF and TAD) to make high-quality care accessible. If you qualify for assistance, our administrative team will help you navigate the paperwork and enrollment slots. Please contact our centers directly so we can check our current availability and guide you through the next steps.
We provide safe, daily elementary transport to a wide network of local schools, including Bob Holcom, Hillside, Parkside, Newmark, Kendall, Marshall, Arrowhead, and North Park, as well as middle school transport to Shandin Hills and Golden Valley.
Instead of giving them more worksheets after a full day of school, our MAE curriculum focuses on interactive projects. For example, children learn math, sorting, and counting concepts by organizing inventory for community drives, or they explore science by building structures and conducting experiments. It keeps learning fun and engaging.
We serve a nutritious breakfast to our early morning arrival students that fulfills federal nutritional guidelines. For our after-school students, we provide a healthy afternoon snack upon arrival to recharge their energy for homework and project time.
Our summer program is specifically geared toward active 4, 5, and 6-year-olds. It is the perfect academic and social bridge for children entering Transitional Kindergarten (TK), Kindergarten, or Grade 1 in the fall.
This is our MAE (Meaningful Assessment-ready Experiences) curriculum in action! Instead of flashcards, children learn sight words by reading menu items or store signs. They learn to count by 10s by bundling pretend carrots at the Farmers Market or counting flowers in groups. Because they are physically interacting with the concepts, they understand and remember them much better.
Since our program runs as a continuous, full-year learning ecosystem, our 12-week summer themes flow naturally within our regular enrollment. This ensures children maintain a consistent routine, deep friendships, and stable learning habits all summer long.
Through daily in-person catch-ups at pickup and regular digital updates on the Brightwheel app, we keep you fully connected to your child's journey. Our teachers gently track milestones within the natural flow of play, so you’ll get clear insights into their progress with letters, numbers, and sight words.
UPK stands for Universal Pre-Kindergarten. By aligning our private, small-group classroom experiences with the state's UPK standards, we ensure your child masters essential pre-reading, math, and inquiry skills. This focus gives them a distinct academic advantage, positioning them to be at the top of their class when they enter Grade 1.
It means we bring learning to life instead of relying on paper sheets. Children learn fractions and measurements by measuring real ingredients for a recipe; they learn phonics and reading by acting out stories or writing classroom journals. This active approach makes complex concepts easier to understand and remember.
We operate as a full-day, full-year program with extended hours from 6:30 AM to 6:00 PM. We don't take the extended seasonal breaks common in public schools, providing reliable, continuous care and learning for working caregivers.
Absolutely. All public schools are legally required to admit children beginning in Grade 1, regardless of where they were enrolled for preschool or kindergarten. Completing your child's early education in our private program gives them a smaller, highly focused environment to build advanced skills before joining a larger public school classroom.
Our research-based teaching places a high focus on emotional and social development. Educators intentionally guide children through group dynamics, teaching them how to communicate frustrations, navigate boundaries, and build respectful, positive relationships with parents, friends, and teachers.
Yes! As part of our commitment to a healthy learning ecosystem, we provide nutritious, balanced meals and snacks daily. These group mealtimes keep their energy levels steady for active learning and give our older students a chance to practice independence and great conversation skills with friends.
Through regular observation tools mapped directly to state standards and developmental milestones, we give you clear, easy-to-understand updates on how your child is growing academically and socially, both digitally and during face-to-face check-ins.
We look at potty training as a wonderful step toward growing up! Our teachers partner closely with you to keep the same routine at school that you use at home, using lots of patience and positive encouragement.
It means we swap out paper coloring sheets for real experiences. Toddlers learn math and science by mixing paint colors, building with blocks, and exploring different textures with their hands.
Learning to share is hard work at this age! Teachers guide toddlers through taking turns, helping them put their feelings into words and solve problems together.
We know mornings can sometimes be tough. Our teachers are trained in techniques to help toddlers navigate those big feelings during drop-off. We create a welcoming environment that quickly redirects their attention to fun, hands-on activities, ensuring they feel safe, secure, and ready to explore.
We take care of the details so you don’t have to. As part of our commitment to a healthy learning ecosystem, we provide nutritious, balanced meals and snacks throughout the day. These group mealtimes are also a wonderful opportunity for toddlers to practice self-help skills, like learning to use spoons, baby forks, and open cups.
A lot! Toddlers have so much natural energy, and we believe active movement is essential for their growth. We provide plenty of daily outdoor play where they can run, climb, and play games. This active discovery helps them walk more steadily, builds gross motor coordination, and gives them a healthy space to burn off energy.
We believe in a close partnership with our families. While we send handy digital updates through the Brightwheel app to keep you informed about meals, naps, and activities, we always prioritize catching up with you in person during drop-off and pickup. We also share regular insights into how your child is progressing through our MAE curriculum.
Our teachers are trained in gentle care techniques designed to soothe crying and facilitate healthy attachment. By meeting an infant's emotional needs first, we provide the "roots" of stability they need to feel safe in their new environment.
We focus on both gross and fine motor development. This includes active support for rolling, sitting up, and moving, as well as the fine motor coordination required for holding bottles and using utensils.
At Oak Tree, we use music, dance, and constant conversation to immerse infants in language. This "Learning by Doing" approach builds a rich vocabulary and strengthens the cognitive "branches" needed for future academic succe
For an infant, "doing" is "learning." Instead of passive time in a swing or bouncer, our Crickets are engaged in active sensory play. Whether it’s feeling the texture of a safe discovery bin or practicing the fine motor skills needed to hold a bottle, every activity is an intentional experience designed to spark curiosity.
As part of our Family First promise, we act as a foundational partner for our parents. We welcome and support breastfeeding mothers by providing a private, comfortable space for nursing and following specific storage and feeding guidelines for expressed milk to ensure your baby’s routine remains as close to home as possible.
Once your child is ready for solids, we provide nutritious, healthy meals prepared on-site. We focus on high-quality ingredients that fuel healthy growing bodies, removing the logistical stress for parents while ensuring your child has the energy they need to explore their world.
Through our MAE (Meaningful Assessment-ready Experiences) framework, we don’t just observe; we assess. We use the DRDP (Desired Results Developmental Profile) to track your child’s progress in real-time. Parents receive regular updates and clear communication so you can celebrate every new "branch" of development as it grows.
A readiness camp like Oak Tree’s bridges the gap by maintaining academic routines. We focus on foundational phonics, number sense, and social-emotional skills, ensuring children are "up to speed" and confident when school begins in September.
Yes. Oak Tree Learning Center offers flexible summer enrollment. You can select specific dates and weeks (like "Cafe Week" or "Pet Shop Week") to fit your family's vacation schedule.
Our program is specifically designed for rising TK, Kindergarten, and 1st Grade students (children finishing the grade prior to these classes).
Yes. At both our 40th st and View Park locations, we provide nutritious meals and snacks to keep our explorers energized. We are a nut-aware facility and can accommodate most common dietary restrictions; please discuss your child's specific needs with the Campus Director during registration.
To ensure your child is ready for a day of discovery, please pack:
A refillable water bottle.
A change of clothes (exploration can get messy!).
Closed-toe shoes (essential for safety during outdoor play).
Weather-appropriate outerwear or hats for the garden and market themes.
High factor sunscreen.
Yes. While our four themes (Cafe, Pet Shop, etc.) are school-wide, we group children by their upcoming grade level. This allows our teachers to differentiate the "Bridge to Success" curriculum, ensuring a rising 1st grader is challenged with more complex reading tasks while a rising TK student focuses on foundational social skills.
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We aim to make high-quality early education accessible. Oaktree Learning Center proudly accepts subsidized childcare programs including CCRC, CalWORKS, and Crystal Stairs. Please contact our office for assistance with the enrollment paperwork for subsidized families.
Our proprietary MAE (Meaningful Assessment-ready Experiences) curriculum is a hands-on, "learning by doing" approach. Unlike traditional daycare, we focus on STEAM-based activities, gardening, and baking to build critical thinking. This ensures our students meet Kindergarten readiness standards with confidence and strong social-emotional skills.
We provide a robust after-school program for grades K–5. This includes safe transportation from local elementary schools, dedicated homework help, and nutritious snacks. We also offer full-day care during summer camp and school breaks to support year-round family needs.
Your child’s safety is our priority. All our locations feature secure, gated entries, and we use the Brightwheel app for real-time check-ins and parent communication. We follow strict daily sanitization schedules and state-mandated safety guidelines to maintain a healthy environment for all learners.
Yes. We believe nutrition is key to early childhood development. We provide a balanced breakfast, lunch, and two snacks daily, all meeting federal nutritional guidelines. Our menus are designed to be kid-friendly while encouraging healthy eating habits from a young age.
Yes! We offer comprehensive infant care (6–18 months) and toddler programs (2-year-olds) designed to foster early development. Our nurturing environment focuses on sensory play and social-emotional growth, providing a safe and reliable childcare solution for working parents in California.
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