Families across all 11 library locations in Alameda County now have free access to an online preschool education program, thanks to a new partnership between Playgarden Prep and the Alameda County Library. The program, designed for kids aged 2-4, is part of a Playgarden initiative to address early education gaps and provide families with valuable tools to support their children’s learning and development.
“Playgarden is dedicated to providing all children with quality preschool and pre-K opportunities that prepare them to enter school and thrive,” said Amanda Vierheller, Co-Founder and COO of Playgarden Prep.
Vierheller mentioned that children are expected to enter Kindergarten having learned basic reading and math skills, but more than half of American families can’t afford a high quality early learning environment to achieve this. A data dashboard from the American Progress Foundation found that only 34 percent of four year olds and six percent of 3 year olds are enrolled in a state-funded public school. By having Playgarden available at no cost and online, the program reaches families that traditional preschool settings often can’t.
The curriculum includes lessons led by certified teachers, hands-on learning tools, a structured daily schedule, and live interactive Zoom classes. Vierheller said the Alameda County librarians worked closely with Playgarden to integrate the program, ensuring it complements existing library resources and meets the developmental needs of young children.
Based in New York, Playgarden Prep has been a leader in early education since its founding in Tribeca in 2008, later expanding to the Upper East Side and launching online programs in 2020. With a team of certified Montessori teachers, therapists, and educational specialists, Playgarden has designed a curriculum that fosters cognitive, social, and emotional growth for young learners.
For more info visit aclibrary.org.
