Thistle Learning Center

Our Teachers

Dr. Trish, Director

Dr. Trish graduated from the University of Oregon with a Doctorate in Educational Methodology, Policy and Leadership. In 2020, she learned that Central Oregon was a child care desert. This provided Dr. Trish with an opportunity to return to her roots as a preschool teacher and develop a program that meets the needs of diverse learning environment. Her favorite things about what she does is developing relationships with families and facilitating lifelong learners. She believes that a very small class size and the development of a strong community allow her and her team to really know each child as an individual and provide a solid, supportive foundation in the early years.

Testimonials

Thank you for your vision. My son has come so far! I appreciate all your support. -Parent of rising kindergartner

Philosophy

At Thistle Learning Center Preschool (TLC Preschool) we believe that the environment and the adults around a child shape how they relate to themselves and to others. Through caring relationships that develop between peers and teachers, we hope to plant the seeds of respect from others and love for humanity which can accompany our students as they navigate life as young persons and as adults.

We invite you to explore our curriculum, daily schedule, admission process, school schedule, resources and most of all, discover why TLC Preschool is the perfect place for your child.

CURRICULUM

TLC Preschool has a unique blended curriculum that is inspired by the principles of Montessori, Waldorf education, nature-based education and is informed by the Common Core State Standards (CCSS). The CCSS include English language arts, mathematics, science, and technology engineering, history, social science and learning through the arts.

The unique “hybridized” curriculum is inspired by Montessori, Waldorf and Nature-based education and informed by the CCSS. We use methods of Montessori to provide age-appropriate activities that guide the process of self-directed and collaborative play activities. The methods of Waldorf education are used to teach academic content in a hands-on, lively, experiential way, through real life experiences. Nature based education is integrated through an outdoor experience that emphasizes on elements of nature. This “hybridized” curriculum creates an opportunity to cater to the individual learner with an eye on the Common Core State Standards.

LITERACY

Children learn the rhythms and sounds of English through a large repertoire of beautiful songs and seasonal rhymes. These are embodied in accompanying movements/gestures and therefore easily learned. Stories rich in imagery and content are also a core part of the language arts curriculum. Exposure to such rich language builds children’s speaking and listening skills—so important in later reading development. It enhances vocabulary knowledge too.

SCIENCE AND MATH

Children are natural scientists and so curious about our world. At TLC Preschool science topics include soil, hibernation, solids, liquids, birds, rocks, and the water cycle to name a few. Math concepts, such as counting, sorting, and measuring are easily integrated into scientific study—our nature based educational setting provides the perfect context for both.

The curriculum is based on the seasons and rhythms of nature that the children can observe around them. We spend time outdoors in nature everyday as part of science and health curriculum.

THE IMPORTANCE OF NATURE

Research has demonstrated that active outdoor time fosters social-emotional development and autonomy. It also helps to develop the key learning skill of executive function, and can help in addressing attention deficit disorders. Our daily outside journeys include a theme with a circle time to enhance exploration, work/play and sharing both receptively and expressively in a safe, learning environment.

THE ARTS AND FREE PLAY

Every day, the children engage in art through drawing, painting, and clay. Art engages the imagination and develops fine motor skills.

Long term studies of creativity show that it is declining among American student, and loss of play time is considered to be an important cause. The children at Thistle Learning Center spend considerable time outdoors and in free play every day. We believe such play stimulates the imagination, enhances creativity and helps to develop their social and emotional skills.

Location

We’re in the NWX neighborhood of Bend; in a small office building with an expansive view of Broken Top. With easy access to everything from Round About Books and Discovery Park are just a short walk away. We’re a few blocks away from Summit High School and Central Oregon Pediatrics Associates. This is an ideal location if you’re looking to walk within the NWX - a parent’s dream!

About our program

At Thistle Learning Center Preschool (TLC Preschool), we believe that the environment and the adults around a child shape how they relate to themselves and others. Through caring relationships that develop between peers and teachers, we hope to plant the seeds of respect from others and love for humanity which can accompany our students as they navigate life as young persons and as adults.

Admissions

Join the Thistle Learning Center: Preschool Community in three easy steps:

1. Explore our website We’ve provided information about our philosophies and offerings to help you decide if our program may be right for your family.
2. Tour our program Come see what makes Thistle Learning Center: Preschool unique. If we are currently hosting tours, you can request or schedule a tour at the top of this page. If we are not currently hosting tours, you’ll see a “Request Info” button at the top of this page; if you submit your information using this button, we will notify you when we start host tours again in the future.
3. Submit an Enrollment Application If you’re interested in enrolling, submit an application by selecting ‘Apply to enroll’ If this option if not available, you can message the program director.

Please do not apply to enroll until you have set up a tour and visited the program.