Child & Family Institute Programs

Child & Family Institute Programs offers family programs in a prepared environment based on the teachings of Maria Montessori. The programs take place in a spiritual environment called “the Meadow,” and are presented in a playful, nondenominational, spiritual setting. The program strives to support every family, create opportunities for joyful play, encourage rituals and traditions, and build a caring community.

• Schedule: Hours: 9am-4pm Monday-Friday

The mission of Child & Family Institute Programs is to create and conduct family programs that nurture the growth of strong, loving communicating families, and to provide a place for families to discover and celebrate their wholeness and uniqueness. The program describes itself as “A Magical Place Where Love Happens,” and offers educational programs designed for children and families in its nondenominational, spiritual setting. The institute shares a campus with Trinity School and Trinity Church, but is not affiliated with either program.

The leadership team includes Director/Teacher Brooke Larkins; Bookkeeper Melissa Gordon; Office Manager Jeannie Sucre; and Administrative Assistant Patti Fong. Meadow Teachers include Teacher Marypat, Teacher Michelle, Teacher Amanda, Teacher Christy (also Tea Leader), Teacher Kendall, and Teacher Jane (also Change Makers Leader). Heart Voice Leaders are Teacher Marion and Teacher Alison. The co-founders are Josetta Walsh and Kris Goodrich. The 2025–2026 Board of Directors includes Susie Frimel (President), Brooke Larkins (Director), Christina Borchers, Rachael Bowman, Mariam Breeding, Melissa Gordon, Kristin Gray, Satra Hawkins, Margaret Hazelrig, and Katie Lee-Mohammed.

Last updated April 27, 2026.