“We cannot say enough about BCH. This experience cultivated so many interests in our son that we continue to delight in sharing with him to this day! Their curriculum brought out his love of music, cooking, gardening, drawing and singing. Socially, he made dear friends and improved in his ability to notice when someone was feeling included (or not), and how to check in on friends and make amends. Finally, he is incredibly embodied so he benefitted from the combination of grounding, calming teaching style with plenty of time for outdoor play and time to follow his curiosity and energy. Iris, John and Patrizio really take to heart the unique opportunity to teach prosocial and self-regulation skills that are critical to learn at this age.

As parents we learned about various holidays, foods, ideas for literacy-related play etc through the very thoughtful weekly newsletter sent home — it shared what was taught and high level framing used so that we could ask questions that actually elicited conversation about the week. I didn’t know such deeply human-centered people and programs like this still existed, it was a delight to find — if it works for you and your family, join the BCH community!”

“Where to even start! So many wonderful things to say about Benvenue Children’s House, their program, offerings, outstanding staff, and an unparalleled, nurturing, supportive and educational environment!

I count our lucky stars that there was a opening for our daughter to attend this incredible school when she was just about three years old. Due to the pandemic, we had a bit of a late start, but from our first tour, we knew we landed in the right place. Iris and her team make each student feel like they are supremely cared for and nurtured in their own individual way. They foster important life lessons that are rooted in everyday moments that all together nurture their students and build independence. The location of their school can’t be beat with their giant gorgeous outdoor space and calming interior space that is the perfect balance of both worlds. I feel so grateful that my daughter had such enrichment in her preschool, such as - gardening, art, music, singing, playing, adventure, practical lessons, dear friends, nurturing education, and she even learned to write and sound out words!

I feel 100% confident in saying that BCH is the perfect preschool environment and there is no better!”

“I am not sure if we could have been any luckier to have found this school. Both of our children, now 5 & 7yrs old had previously attended Claremont Day Nursery (which has since closed). Our oldest child had moved onward and upward to elementary school so that left us on the hunt for a new learning environment for our youngest. After an exhaustive search, we landed a spot at BCH! This school is now run by three children of Rosemary Deserio(Berkeley Legend who founded and ran BCH for over 30yrs): Iris, John & Patrizio Deserio. To make this review shorter I won’t go into their credentials here but you should go here http://www.benvenuechildrenshouse.org/team and check out their bios. I value how each of them works together while drawing on their formal training/education and real-world experience earned by world travel, and working at other institutions, as well as having worked side by side with their mother Rosemary. I am grateful to this school for facilitating independence, learning, and growth thru natural interest, and most of all, kindness. If you take the time to talk to any one of the Deserio family you will find yourself chatting with a world traveler, a music lover, an artist, a gardener, a dancer, and a food lover. I can definitively say that a foundational love for music, art, gardening, has been embued into my child’s worldview for having attended this school. I take pleasure in talking to my child about the plants she can identify, the culture she has soaked in, and hearing all the songs she has learned.

The school is small compared to most I have seen. It is located on the ground floor of a very Berkeley-style craftsman, the grounds are full of raised beds, and very well-maintained play structures. I do want to mention their extended care also known as “Tea Time”: It goes until 3:30 pm and they actually serve tea!

Please feel free to reach out of you want to chat about BCH. I have a lot more to say. =-)

Here is the contact for the school: info@benvenuechildrenshouse.com

We love this place!”