Manhattan Beach Nursery School

Manhattan Beach Nursery School is a family participation preschool cooperative with a play-based, self-directed, and child-led learning environment. It uses nonviolent communication methods and experiential play, and it does not use shame, punishment, or extrinsic rewards as a means of control. The program includes the Younger Group for ages 2-3, the Older Group for ages 3-5, the Extended Day for ages 4-6, and the You & Me Toddler Program for walking-24 months.

Programs

• Younger Group — 2-3 years old · Tuesdays & Thursdays, 9:00 am-12:00 pm
• Older Group — 3-5 years old · Mondays, Wednesdays & Fridays, 9:00 am-12:00 pm
• Extended Day — 4-6 years old · Mondays, Wednesdays & Fridays, 9:00 am-3:00 pm
• You & Me Toddler Program — Walking-24 months

At a glance

• Ages: 2–6 years old
• General schedule: School year runs from September-June. Rolling and always open enrollment.

About the provider

Manhattan Beach Nursery School has served the community since 1956 and is a nonprofit organization. Its family participation is required, with one member age 18 or older from each family working directly with children one morning per week from 8:45 am to 12:15 pm, along with school maintenance work, shared snack, and fundraising. The leadership team includes Director Carol Tatsumi, Psych Advisor Laura Dotson, On-Site Director Aimee Odle on Fridays, Teacher Katie Stone on Thursdays, and Teacher Jorie Denny on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays. The program is based on the guidelines of the National Association for the Education of Young Children and the anti-bias curriculum developed by Pacific Oaks College, and it is licensed by the State.

Does not use shame, punishment, or extrinsic rewards as a means of control. Limit setting is based on developmentally-appropriate expectations. Uses non-violent conflict resolution, problem solving, and effective communication skills. Child-led and child-centered. Adult education meetings are offered. Does not discriminate on specified bases.

Last updated October 10, 2026.