The Gay Austin School is a private school dedicated to providing quality education for 2-, 3-, and 4-year olds, regardless of race, nationality, or religious belief. We are located on Hopkins Street in North Berkeley, near a small group of shops and parks, and in a neighborhood of tree-lined streets. Our experienced faculty is dedicated to nurturing the emotional, cognitive, and physical growth of young children.

Our philosophy is based on Piaget’s observation that “play is the work of the child,” and incorporates Vygotsky’s theory that children learn from their peers. We use dramatic play, games, artwork, songs, and group activities to help children develop emotionally and socially, and to lay the foundation for later skills in math, reading, science, and writing. Our programs build on the natural curiosity of young children, and instill an excitement for learning. We recognize that children develop differently, and value each child as an individual.

All classes are small. The two-year-old program accommodates eleven children each day; the three-year-old program, fourteen children; the four-year-old program, sixteen children, and the extended day is limited to twelve children. Each class is led by two teachers.