My son's wonderful, warm, & loving Waldorf preschool is accepting kiddos(ages 2 and up)for the 2009-2010 school year. I cannot recommend Cottontail Cottage highly enough! The director, Carissa Thiel, gently guides the children through their days as she plays, bakes, builds, gardens, sings & dances with them. A healthy, whole grain, organic snack and hot lunch is provided each day. Carissa has a wonderful front yard with a big sandbox and a magical garden that the kids can explore. AND she has a fabulous back yard with a rope ladder & swing and another sandbox. The kids spend alot of time outdoors and love it. The best thing is that Carissa truly cares for and loves the kids--and the kids can feel it. She is patient & kind and my son has really blossomed there. Cottontail Cottage is in El Sobrante, very near the East Bay Waldorf school. We're in Berkeley and it takes us about 15 mins in the am. 510-669-0477 is her number. Julie

When we were looking for a preschool for our then-3-year old son Daniel, we wanted a teacher who was like family. Carissa Thiel of Cottontail Cottage was just that kind of teacher. Daniel was a preemie, small for his age, had eating issues, and was slightly speech-delayed. We were anxious about having someone other than us take care of him, but he immediately took to Carissa. She is warm, nurturing, extremely patient, and kind. Her primary disciplinary method is a predictable routine, so that very young children know what to expect. Imagine going on a trip and not knowing your airline, departure time, and destination. That stress of not knowing is what young children feel when the events of the day keep changing. Almost 6, Daniel is happy, healthy, and curious, due in large part to Carissa's loving guidance. Please feel free to call me or my husband David if you have any questions.