We are a warm and nurturing Reggio inspired preschool nestled in nature in the hills of Bel-Air, California. Our location, context, and internal and external environments allow children to express their natural curiosity and need to explore. Our environments are carefully designed to inspire our children to collaboratively construct and evolve their theories and understanding of their world.
Our intimate-nature based environment allows for passion and inquiry to lead the investigations rather than large numbers. The small number of children makes certain that everyone is seen as a vital member of our community of learners. Laila is the founder and teacher at Synapse Atelier. She holds a Bachelor's Degree from Loyola University Chicago and an Early Childhood Education (ECE) Certificate from Santa Monica College.
Our intimate-nature based environment allows for passion and inquiry to lead the investigations rather than large numbers. The small number of children makes certain that everyone is seen as a vital member of our community of learners. Laila is the founder and teacher at Synapse Atelier. She holds a Bachelor's Degree from Loyola University Chicago and an Early Childhood Education (ECE) Certificate from Santa Monica College.
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Our name Synapse Atelier fuses together two ideas that are at the core of our learning philosophy. Atelier is a French word which means "studio" where artists create. This is symbolic of our second core belief that learning is the result of careful effort, free expression, and thoughtful reflection.
Our preschool begins with our Vines program for our 2 to 3-year-olds and continues through our Blossoms program for our 4 to 5-year-olds. Our classes have a teacher/student ratio of 1:5. Our preschool's capacity is twelve children aged two to five years.
In the summer, we offer an exciting exploration camp for children ages 2-5 years old from 9am to 2pm to our preschool and toddler class families, as well as, new families interested in experiencing our Reggio Inspired Program.
In the summer, we offer an exciting exploration camp for children ages 2-5 years old from 9am to 2pm to our preschool and toddler class families, as well as, new families interested in experiencing our Reggio Inspired Program.
Prospective families are invited to tour our preschool to learn more about our philosophy and experience the work of the children. Because we are dedicated to focusing our full attention to the children, we do not offer tours during preschool hours. We encourage you to bring your child to our tours so they may explore our preschool environment.
Reviews (7)
Nazy J.
May 05, 2021
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I. Doc P.
Apr 19, 2021
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Synapse Atelier's Seedling program and Laila's thoughtful guidance of my child has exceeded my every expectation. My daughter has opened up, grown, and truly thrived after only a few classes. The isolating environment thrust upon us by Covid and quarantine had left her wary and unsure of how to communicate amongst her own peers. Under Laila's very patient guidance, I witnessed the importance of teaching her how to form a connection with the objects and people of her interest. Subsequently, she is now both able communicate more effectively, and perform various tasks with an intention
Eron H.
Nov 21, 2019
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Abigail M.
Dec 11, 2018
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My daughter is truly heard at Synapse. Laila's understanding of children and Reggio education is exceptional and I have learned so much from her. My daughter is thriving in Laila's care. We get constant, thorough and insightful feedback in the form of videos, verbal reflections and photos. Everything Laila does is truly thoughtful and layered with intention. We can't say enough wonderful things about Laila and Synapse. She lifts the kids up and fosters their being themselves, each in their purest form.
Christina G.
Aug 03, 2018
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I am a former co-teacher of Laila and I find her teaching style to be very inspiring. She is very warm and attentive with children. She follows children's ideas diligently and works towards helping children collaborate. Synapse Atelier is an inspiring and serene environment that sparks children's imagination.
Kari M.
Jul 28, 2018
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I've known Laila, the owner, for many years. She truly cares about children and utilizes child-centric philosophies that empower the child and cultivate love and respect for the surroundings. She has helped my own parenting with my twins, and we still utilize her suggestions and coaching in our home. Highly recommend this preschool! 5 stars!
Amjad K.
Jul 24, 2018
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