Early childhood education options abound in Sonoma

Countless studies have proven the benefits of early childhood education. Sonoma parents are fortunate to have an array of preschool options available from free to specialized, with myriad options in between, most with openings available now.

The free (Wednesday or Friday, 9 a.m. to noon) AVANCE program for children ages 1 to 3 and their parents, still has openings at Sassarini Elementary School, as do the traditional full and half-day preschools offered on the Sassarini and Flowery Elementary School campuses.

For more information, contact Susan Langer at slanger@sonomavly.k21.ca.us.

Private preschools also abound in Sonoma. The newest is across town on Lovall Valley Loop, where certified preschool teacher Alexa Redner has opened a Waldorf-inspired early childhood education daycare for ages 1 to 5 called Star Mountain Playgarden.

The center uses the mindfulness-based early childhood models of education and caregiving.

The center features play items made of natural materials: blocks cut from trees branches, handmade wool dolls, sheepskins, plant dyed dress-up capes and crowns. Redner prepares and share organic, home cooked meals every day. starmountainplaygarden.com