Sunflower Preschool

I would highly recommend Sunflower Preschool. Most of the families who chose Sunflower had living nearby as one criteria if not the main one. But for us, it didn't have to do with distance (it is actually a very long commute for us, we chose it for other reasons). The main things we looked at when choosing it were (in no particular order): - Teacher's tenure (one of the teachers has been there decades, she was the teacher of one of the teachers, most other places have an extremely high turnover, which is hard for kids making bonds that need to be continually replaced). - Time outside. The kids spend a lot of time outside. Teacher's education. The teachers have continuous professional development and they are aware of things that are important for us, such as peaceful parenting, non-violent communication, Waldorf and Montessori principles, among others. - Mixed age group. - Lower focus on academics and more focus on emotional intelligence, relationships, creativity, and awareness of the environment. - No screens. As I said, one thing that has surprised me when interacting with other parents from Sunflower is that most of them have had the proximity to Sunflower as one of the main if not the main criteria when choosing it. I think most parents that see it that way got lucky and I hope they are now able to appreciate the little treasure that Sunflower is.

We love Sunflower. It has been such a great fit for our son. He has made some great friends there and practically begs to go to school in the morning. The teaching staff is also top-notch. They are very observant and attentive, while also giving the kids room to explore their curiosities. I have had the opportunity to interact with numerous Sunflower parents, and without exception, each one has expressed sincere appreciation for the program Sunflower runs. If your kid is happy, the other kids seem happy, and the other parents are happy, then I would say Sunflower is a winner.

We've had two kids go through Sunflower Preschool and have been truly delighted with the experience. The classroom and outdoor areas are thoughtfully designed, the teachers are all so dedicated and wonderful with the kids. We went to two other Boulder preschools before Sunflower and are very grateful to have found it.

My family has loved Sunflower for our daughter. We heard wonderful things about the school many times through the neighborhood (we live in Martin Acres), and saw the incredible reviews on Facebook, but we were sold once we had a tour. The outdoor space is pretty magical for kids. My daughter did not want to leave - which was the opposite reaction she had to other preschools we toured. Between the mud kitchen, tee pee, flowers, bugs, sandbox, vegetable garden, water play, tricycles and playground, we had a hard time getting her out of there. Thanks to Marisa the owner, and all of the wonderful veteran teachers, who have created such a nurturing, loving atmosphere. My 5 year old has made many friends, and we've enjoyed the family pot-lucks and seasonal events hosted by the school. A few other mentions - Sunflower is a certified Nature Immersion school, they are also visited weekly by an educational music group, and they have a relationship with a local organic vegetable farm share who brings organic goodies for the kids' snack (in addition to the organic veggies they grow in their own garden). We have no regrets! Just wish we had also sent our first-born to Sunflower instead of getting over-sold on a more marketing-oriented Boulder preschool.

Sunflower is an amazing place. The teachers are so warm and caring. My child has only grown in confidence since attending. They play a lot outside, even when it's cold (within reason) which I love. As a teacher for over a decade, kids need the play outside.