The piper philosophy
Developmental or Academic?
Yes, that’s the hot question. But what does it really mean, and why pick just one? At Piper, we didn’t choose a philosophy. We created one.
Beginning with the emergent approach of Reggio-Emilia while weaving in the independence of Montessori, children are gradually exposed to components of traditional education as they progress through the school. Collaboration, creativity, real-world learning, and - of course - play. We want our little graduates to walk through life with their head held high, their shoulders back, have respect for others, and feel confident in their ideas.
We think, we re-think, we create, and we listen. We do what makes sense, and promise never to become complacent.
THE way we think
CHILDREN ARE CAPABLE, COMPETENT, CREATIVE LEARNERS
It’s amazing what happens when you believe in a child. Implementing their ideas, listening to their thoughts, and problem-solving with (not for) them not only shows them the respect they deserve, but also unlocks a lasting confidence.
WE VALUE INQUIRY OVER INSTRUCTION
Instead of telling children how to do something, guide them as they figure it out. They have the answer. And if they don’t, they build resiliency and the courage to keep trying.
WE VALUE PROCESS OVER PRODUCT
Saying “good job” or giving a “gold star” stops learning in its tracks. Instead, we motivate the love of learning by focusing on a child’s effort. The process is rewarded, not the product.
WE VALUE DELAYED GRATIFICATION
Our children live in a world where things happen instantly. By incorporating project planning through age-level language, we practice patience, avoid distraction, and develop long-term thinking skills.
COMMUNITY is our village
The Piper Philosophy extends far beyond the curriculum. We believe community is part of how children learn, grow, and find their place in the world. It’s our teachers, our families, our kiddos, our environment, and the ways we show up for one another and our wider community.
Piper is a place to call home. A place where, when you wake up, you want to be. A place where you feel a sense of belonging, meet your people, and always have a spot to recharge, connect, work, or simply hang out.
Our admin team is a beautiful blend of former Piper parents, former teachers, and longtime community experts who know and love this place deeply. And then there’s Helen - a true legend who had 30 years on us before we even broke ground. She’s based in Santa Monica, but pokes her nose all over. She’s amazing.
Our teachers are our village - the one it takes. They know that caring for kids is never a solo job, and they bring their whole hearts, talents, and experience to the work every day.
And our parents? They’re part of the fabric, too. Each Piper campus has a dedicated Parent Workspace designed to welcome you all day long. Stay. Work. Chill. Connect. Make yourself at home.
Because we believe the best communities don’t just happen. They’re built together.
We’re better together.
But Wait. There’s More.
THE PARENT WORKSPACE
This truly sets us apart. Early on, we saw how parents wanted a place to drop off and still be around other parents. So, we designed a Parent Workspace at every location, flush with snacks, coffee, and a pretty quick WiFi. So, drop off your kid and get to work… or just stay and visit. Whatever you need.
ENRICHMENT
All the extras without the commute. After school, we have daily classes like music, messy art, studio art, yoga, gardening, and woodshop. We’re always thinking and always adding. We’ve even got enrichment classes for the prepreschool littles in our Baby/Toddler options.
COFFEE
Worth mentioning twice.
INSPIRED OUTDOORS
Loads of greenery all around and our signature creek sits in the playground of each location.
COME EARLY. STAY LATE.
Convenient pick-up and drop-off options. Whether you’re running late one day, want an extra hour of me-time, or need full-day, every day, we got you covered.