Butterfly Garden Preschool

Butterfly Garden is an eclectic preschool based in Los Angeles, California whose mission is to allow all children to grow in their independence, develop a strong sense of self, and be able to use their creativity in working and learning as healthy, thinking individuals. Gisa Nico, a former special education teacher for the Santa Monica-Malibu School District and educational therapist with over 25 years of experience, started Butterfly Garden in 2004. Get the latest updates by following BGP at the links below.

Our Philosophy

The school environment instills a love for learning and allows children to explore and learn at their own pace. We provide many opportunities for problem-solving both individually and in small groups. The preschool organizes activities around learning centers in a hands-on, child-directed environment. The curriculum supports our philosophy of a child-directed, respectful, and fun place to learn and grow. The school seeks to provide a physically safe and emotionally secure setting that encourages the development of the whole child. Children learn best when provided with an opportunity to explore their environment freely. Children learn through direct interactions with the environment and the people within it. A loving, positive environment within a small school “family” creates a sense of belonging.

F.A.Q.

  • Due to my mom and dad falling ill and requiring my caretaking, I was faced with an incredibly difficult decision to temporarily close the school.

  • BGP is a two-room schoolhouse nestled in the backyard of an early 20th-century English cottage in the Palms neighborhood of West LA, where children had access to play structures, toys, art supplies, crafts, and a variety of outdoor activities.

  • BGP is committed to human rights, dignity, and social justice. We strive to create a program that truly reflects the lives of our children, families, staff, and community. By recognizing the impact that culture has on families, we will make every effort to provide culturally responsive education by affirming human differences. We seek to recognize, appreciate, and respect the uniqueness of each child.

  • Butterfly Garden Preschool values communication. Parents and the teacher are partners in the children's education.

    Parents may share their talents and hobbies, read, sing, cook, or do a special project with the class. Parents are also encouraged to use their time and talents to benefit the school in any other ways (e.g. contribute to newsletter, fundraise, etc.)

    Special programs provided for parents include: parent conferences (in February or March), open house in the spring, round table discussions, and classroom volunteer opportunities. Parent/teacher conferences are scheduled on the school calendar and parents are informed of these dates the summer preceding their child's attendance at the program.