When you choose West Hollywood Children’s Academy, you are not just selecting a preschool; you are partnering with a premier provider of child care services. Contact us today to learn more about our engaging, child-centered approach to early education.
Mission Statement
The mission of West Hollywood Children’s Academy is to provide preschool experiences and quality child care in a safe, caring, and stimulating environment, helping children develop socially, creatively, emotionally, physically and intellectually. We strive to provide a loving, stimulating, and supporting environment where children can express their individuality, play, learn, laugh, discover, and grow. We stive to provide an environment that helps children to learn second language and about the diverse cultures of the world.
West Hollywood Children’s Academy strives to uphold and promote values and principles, which encompass fairness and honesty.
Our Founders
Our preschool was founded in 1991 by Sophia Baranov and Julia Baron, two women of European descent looking to recreate the same warm, inclusive atmosphere they remember from their own childhood. Early Childhood program was founded on love and support, education, learning through exploration, musical and art activities.
Organizing her first preschool/child care, Sophia began cautiously developing her children, their memory and attention skills. She saw how joyous and playful the children were while memorizing, categorizing, recognizing, understanding, while learning. Many of the learning materials at that time were made by Sophia herself – colorful and helpful. Her materials got formed into 3 books. Children talk to these books, sing with them, and know their stories.
Fundamental to the program is a research-driven pedagogy focused on the social, emotional, intellectual, and cultural development of young children. Julia had a tremendous share in the development of the program full of discovery and adventure. Julia also added enrichment/specialty classes to a preschool day. Julia strongly believes that there is magic in every child!
The bonds with young children often grow beyond the classroom: Sophia and Julia have a treasured and still growing collection of letters and photos from former students who found success in all walks of life. Nearly all of them credit their accomplishments to the education and support they received in West Hollywood Children’s Academy.
Our Staff
Ms. Maria Wessenauer had joined the staff as the program director since 2022. Prior to this role she has worked as a director of several prominent private and non-profit schools in Los Angeles area for over 20 years. Maria has a passion for early childhood education and brings a creative and innovative approach to her work, always striving to provide the best educational experience for the young children in her care.
All our teachers commit themselves enthusiastically to the children, deeply understanding each one’s unique interests and needs. They provide guidance and empower little ones to succeed. To them, teaching young children is more than just a job. Their greatest reward is to unlock each child’s potential. All teachers have education in Child Development/Early Childhood Education. All teachers are CPR/AED Certified. Teachers are encouraged to continue their professional development.
Our Facility
WHCA’s facility is purposefully designed to foster a close-knit, warm, family-like atmosphere, while providing children with ample, comfortable space for both learning and playing.
Learning and Play Spaces
From collaborative spaces for group activities to quiet nooks for individual exploration, WHCA has it all. Every room is clean, well-lit with ample daylight from the windows, and painted in bright hues to stimulate young minds. Accessibly placed toys, books, and drawing supplies encourage self-directed play and responsibility.
Outdoor Playground
Our large shaded and interactive outdoor playground is a natural extension of our indoor learning environment – a vibrant space where children can explore, climbe, slide, socialize, and let their imagination runs free.
Safety Measures
At WHCA, your child’s safety is our utmost priority. We are fully equipped with:
- Necessary safety equipment, including fire alarms and extinguishers.
- Staff are trained in emergency evacuation protocols, which are clearly displayed near exits.
- Comprehensive earthquake preparedness kits for all children and staff, first aid kits, and radio flashlights.
- Compliance with OSHA standards to ensure a safe environment for everyone.
