Perfect Start Learning

Perfect Start Learning offers play-based learning in a calm, intentionally small, home-based setting. Children take part in small group activities, hands-on exploration, outdoor play and movement, story time, music, creative activities, and afternoon learning centers.

• Ages: 18 months–4 years old
• Schedule: 9am–3pm

Perfect Start Learning is a licensed family child care early education program operating in a licensed family child care home with limited enrollment. The program follows a mission to provide a warm, enriching learning environment where children feel safe, known, and supported through structured play-based learning and social-emotional development. It focuses on structured play-based learning, social-emotional development, early language, literacy, math readiness, independence, and daily opportunities for independence, problem-solving, and peer connection. The daily rhythm is described as predictable, with social-emotional learning woven into everyday routines and interactions in a warm, relationship-based environment where children are truly known.

Perfect Start Learning was founded in 2012 by Tessie Ragan, M.Ed., and relocated to California in 2016. The program has supported families in Germany, Maryland, and California and serves children ages 18 months to 4 years, with enrollment open for the 2026/2027 school year. The small learning community is described as being built on service, purpose, and a commitment to giving every child the perfect start.

Owner and educator Ms. Tessie holds a Bachelor’s degree in Birth–Kindergarten Education and a Master’s degree in Early Childhood Education. Ms. Tessie also holds leadership roles within organizations such as NAFCC and NAEYC and serves as an educator member of the Commission for Excellence in Early Childhood Education. Perfect Start Learning proudly serves the Rosamond and Edwards Air Force Base community.

Last updated April 4, 2026.