Children playing and learning at Creative Hearts Family Childcare in Walnut Creek, CA
5.0RatingOver 45 5-Star Reviews

Where Little Hearts Grow

Nurturing young minds in Walnut Creek with play-based learning, creative exploration, and a warm, loving environment where every child thrives

Walnut Creek, CAAges 2–5Mon–Fri, 8:30 AM – 5:30 PM
Licensed & Insured
CPR Certified
5.0★ Rating
10+ Years Experience
Meals Included

Our Programs

Age-appropriate curriculum designed to nurture every stage of early childhood development

The Caterpillar Classroom
Ages 18 Months to Early 2's

The Caterpillar Classroom

Our Caterpillar Classroom offers a refined and nurturing first school experience designed especially for children ages 18 months to early 2's. With a low 1:4 teacher-to-child ratio and fully certified educators, each toddler receives individualized attention and strong emotional support during this pivotal stage of development.

The Butterflies Classroom
Late 2's to Age 4

The Butterflies Classroom

Our Butterflies Classroom serves children from late 2's through age 4 in a thoughtfully prepared environment where curiosity takes flight. With a 1:4 teacher-to-student ratio and certified educators, we provide individualized guidance as children grow in independence and confidence.

What Makes Us Special

At Creative Hearts, we provide a warm, home-like environment where children learn through play, exploration, and meaningful interactions.

Play-Based Learning

Hands-on activities that promote creativity and exploration

Nurturing Environment

Safe, loving space where children thrive emotionally and socially

Arts & Crafts

Daily creative activities to develop fine motor skills

Music & Movement

Songs, dance, and rhythm activities for physical development

Outdoor Play

Secure outdoor area for active play and nature exploration

Trilingual Program

Spanish and English immersion with daily Mandarin lessons taught through songs, stories, and daily practice

9+
Happy Families
2+
Years Experience
1.4
Average Rating
3
Max Class Size

About Our Program

Our mission is rooted in a deep passion for nurturing not only intelligence, but character. At Creative Hearts, we believe education should be holistic — going far beyond academics to cultivate emotional intelligence, resilience, and empathy. Through daily mindfulness practices and intentional guidance, we equip children with tools to understand their emotions, build compassion, and grow confidently into well-rounded individuals who are both capable and kind.

With years of experience teaching across diverse educational settings, and having completed a Director-Level certification to lead a learning center, we've had the privilege of designing a program that reflects both expertise and heart. Alongside our exceptional colleagues, Miss Wen and Marietta — former Kindergarten and Preschool teachers — we have thoughtfully crafted a curriculum that blends multiple educational philosophies into one cohesive and enriching experience.

Reggio Emilia

Encouraging children to explore their world through the senses and engage in meaningful, hands-on discovery.

Montessori

Fostering independence, organization, and strong foundations in reading, writing, and mathematics — ensuring confident Kindergarten readiness.

Waldorf Earth Schooling

Bringing stories to life, celebrating nature and the changing seasons, and immersing children in culture, music, and imaginative play.

Our approach draws inspiration from these three powerful philosophies, woven together into a single, cohesive curriculum. We emphasize phonetics and foundational academics while making learning joyful, creative, and experiential.

Our Philosophy

Above all, we aim to instill a lifelong love of learning and a deep appreciation for living in the present moment — empowering children to thrive academically, socially, and emotionally. Our small class size with a 1:4 teacher-to-child ratio ensures every child receives individualized attention, meaningful connections, and the personalized care they deserve to flourish at every stage of their development.

1:4 Ratio

One teacher for every 4 children — ensuring every child is seen, heard, and supported.

What We Offer

  • Holistic Curriculum: Daily mindfulness, emotional intelligence, and character development are thoughtfully woven into every part of the day, nurturing resilient, compassionate learners.
  • Multi-Philosophy Approach: A unique blend of Reggio Emilia exploration, Montessori structure, and Waldorf-inspired Earth Schooling creates a rich, sensory-based learning experience rooted in curiosity and creativity.
  • Intimate Class Size & Low Ratios: We maintain a 1:4 teacher-to-child ratio, with a maximum of 6 children per classroom and only 12 children total within our program. This ensures personalized guidance, meaningful relationships, and individualized attention for every child.
  • Kindergarten Readiness: A strong emphasis on phonetics, early literacy, math foundations, and problem-solving prepares children confidently for their next academic chapter.
  • Nutritious Daily Snacks: Three wholesome snacks are provided daily to nourish growing minds and bodies.
  • Licensed & Insured: Fully licensed by the State of California, with CPR and First Aid certified staff for your peace of mind.

COVID-19 Safety Measures

We maintain enhanced cleaning protocols, health screenings, and follow all state and local health guidelines to ensure the safety of children and families in our Walnut Creek childcare.

Our Teaching Philosophy

Three Approaches. One Loving Heart.

At Creative Hearts, we blend three world-renowned educational philosophies into one warm, cohesive experience. Here's what each one means — in plain parent language.

Waldorf approach at Creative Hearts
Learning Through Wonder & Story

Waldorf

Learning Through Wonder & Story

Waldorf education believes childhood is a magical time that deserves to be protected and celebrated. Rather than rushing children into academics, Waldorf nurtures imagination, creativity, and a deep love of the natural world.

What this looks like at Creative Hearts

  • Seasonal celebrations and nature-based rhythms
  • Storytelling, puppetry, and imaginative play
  • Music, movement, and artistic expression every day
  • Connecting learning to the real, living world around us

What this means for your child

"Your child gets to be a child — fully. Learning happens through beauty, rhythm, and joy, not pressure."

Montessori approach at Creative Hearts
Independence Builds Confidence

Montessori

Independence Builds Confidence

Montessori trusts children to lead their own learning. It gives them the freedom to choose activities that interest them, work at their own pace, and develop real-life skills — all within a carefully prepared, orderly environment.

What this looks like at Creative Hearts

  • Hands-on materials that make abstract ideas concrete
  • Children choosing their own work and following their curiosity
  • Practical life skills like pouring, sorting, and self-care
  • Strong foundations in reading, writing, and math

What this means for your child

"Your child learns to think for themselves, stay focused, and feel genuinely capable — skills that last a lifetime."

Reggio Emilia approach at Creative Hearts
Children Are Natural Researchers

Reggio Emilia

Children Are Natural Researchers

Reggio Emilia sees every child as a capable, curious, and creative thinker. It follows the child's interests and questions, using art, documentation, and collaborative projects to deepen understanding in a meaningful way.

What this looks like at Creative Hearts

  • Projects that grow from children's own questions and ideas
  • Art, building, and sensory exploration as tools for thinking
  • Teachers who listen deeply and document children's discoveries
  • A classroom environment designed as a "third teacher"

What this means for your child

"Your child's ideas matter here. They learn that their voice, curiosity, and creativity are powerful and worth exploring."

The Best of All Three — Woven Into Every Day

We don't pick just one philosophy — we thoughtfully blend all three to meet each child exactly where they are. The result is a learning experience that is joyful, structured, creative, and deeply human.

Waldorf WonderMontessori IndependenceReggio Curiosity

Meet Our Heart-Led Teaching Team

At Creative Hearts, our teachers are more than educators — they are guides, nurturers, and role models who bring warmth, intention, and deep expertise into every moment of your child's day.

10+ Years Combined Experience

Deeply rooted in early childhood education

Certified & Director-Level Credentialed

Qualified professionals leading with excellence

Waldorf, Montessori & Reggio Emilia

Trained in world-renowned teaching philosophies

Children's Yoga & Mindfulness Certified

Supporting emotional well-being every day

Nurturing, Calm & Inspiring Environment

Passionate about every child's unique journey

1:4 Teacher-to-Child Ratio

Individualized attention, guidance & support

Creative Hearts teaching team together

Our Heart-Led Team

Bringing warmth, intention, and expertise to every child's day

"We believe that when children feel safe, seen, and loved, they naturally grow into confident, curious, and kind individuals."

This is the heart of Creative Hearts.

Miss Dulci - Founder and Director of Creative Hearts

Miss Dulci

Founder & Director

Director-Level CertifiedCPR CertifiedNature-Inspired Educator

Hi, I'm Miss Dulci, founder and Director of Creative Hearts. I created Creative Hearts from a deep desire to help guide children to feel connected — to themselves, to one another, and to the beautiful world around them.

Through creative exploration of culture, music, language, and yoga, I've designed a heartfelt, nature-inspired program that nurtures the whole child. My vision has always been to create a space where children learn not only academics, but also mindfulness, compassion, and confidence.

At Creative Hearts, we truly put our heart into everything we do. We believe in working hand-in-hand with parents, building a strong love for learning, and growing together as one supportive community — especially through our special semi-annual family gatherings that bring us all closer.

It is an honor to walk alongside your children during these precious early years. 💛✨

Certification

Director-Level Learning Center

Specialties

Yoga, Music, Culture & Mindfulness

Experience

Taught Locally & Abroad

Community

Semi-Annual Family Gatherings

Miss Wen - Butterflies Classroom Teacher at Creative Hearts

Miss Wen

Butterflies Classroom Teacher

Mindfulness EducatorSocial-Emotional LearningSpanish & Music

Hi, I'm Miss Wen, and I'm so happy to be part of your child's journey in our Butterflies classroom! I am passionate about helping children slow down, be present, and discover joy in the little moments that make each day special.

Through mindfulness, kindness practices, and social-emotional learning, I guide children to breathe deeply, use gentle hands, and care for one another. I also love weaving Spanish lessons, music, and dance into our daily rhythm — creating a classroom where movement, creativity, and language learning feel natural and fun.

My goal is to nurture confident, compassionate learners who feel safe, joyful, and inspired to spread their wings. 🦋✨

Focus

Mindfulness & Kindness Practices

Specialties

Spanish, Music & Dance

Approach

Social-Emotional Learning

Classroom

Butterflies Room

Miss Marrietta Besani - Caterpillars Classroom Teacher at Creative Hearts

Miss Marrietta

Caterpillars Classroom Teacher

10+ Years ExperienceMusic & Creative ArtsEarly Childhood Specialist

Hi, I'm Miss Marrietta, and I'm truly honored to be part of your child's early learning journey! With over 10 years of experience as a Preschool and Kindergarten teacher, I bring a deep love for early childhood education and a heartfelt commitment to helping little ones grow with confidence, creativity, and joy.

Throughout my years in the classroom, I have focused on nurturing curiosity, kindness, and independence. I believe children learn best through hands-on exploration, meaningful play, and a warm, encouraging environment where they feel safe to express themselves. My goal is always to create a classroom that feels like a second home — filled with laughter, discovery, and connection.

In the Caterpillars classroom, I especially love incorporating music and the creative arts into our daily routine. Singing, rhythm, movement, storytelling, and artistic expression help children build language skills, social confidence, and imagination. Watching their faces light up during a music circle or art project is one of my greatest joys!

I am so excited to partner with you to make this a magical year of growth, learning, and transformation — just like a caterpillar becoming a butterfly! 🐛🦋

Experience

10+ Years Preschool & Kindergarten

Specialties

Music, Arts & Storytelling

Approach

Hands-On Exploration & Play

Classroom

Caterpillars Room

A Day in the Life

Our structured daily routine provides consistency while allowing flexibility for each child's needs

Arrival & Free Play

8:30 – 9:00 AM

Children arrive and enjoy self-directed indoor free play

Music & Movement

9:00 – 9:30 AM

Songs, dancing, and movement activities to energize the morning

Learning Time

9:30 – 10:00 AM

Structured group learning, letters, numbers, and concepts

Snack Time

10:00 AM

Healthy morning snack and relaxed social time

Art / Sensory Discovery

10:30 AM

Hands-on creative art and sensory exploration projects

Outside Play

11:00 – 11:45 AM

Active outdoor play, gross motor activities, and fresh air

Lunch Time

12:00 PM

Family-style lunch and friendly conversation

Nap Time

12:30 – 2:20 PM

Rest and nap time for recharging the afternoon

Afternoon Snack

2:30 – 3:00 PM

Healthy afternoon snack to refuel after rest

Story Time

3:00 – 3:30 PM

Read-aloud, storytelling, and language development

Outside Play

3:30 – 4:30 PM

Afternoon outdoor exploration and physical activity

Discovery Time

4:30 – 5:00 PM

Curiosity-driven exploration and learning centers

Free Play

5:00 – 5:30 PM

Self-directed play and wind-down before pickup

Flexible Schedule

While we follow this daily routine, we remain flexible to accommodate each child's individual needs, interests, and developmental pace. Weather, special activities, and children's engagement may adjust timing throughout the day.

2026 Academic Year

Academic Calendar

Explore our monthly themes, weekly activities, and school closure dates for the full 2026 program year. Click any month to expand details.

School Closure
Special Event
Regular Activity

Calendar Notes

There are 13 school closure days throughout the 2026 academic year. Tuition is prorated for extended closures (e.g., Summer Break June 3–12). Dates are subject to change — families will be notified in advance of any updates.

Verified Parent Reviews

5.0

Based on verified parent reviews

"Let me begin by saying that if you are currently on the hunt for a preschool you have my condolences. If you're like me you've toured countless schools and wondered if you will ever find that perfect program for your child. It really is such a daunting task to find somewhere/someone that you truly feel comfortable and confident leaving your little one with but rest assured that if you've found Dulcinea at Creative Hearts you have found a true treasure. She is calm, warm, nurturing and so much fun! Her in home classroom is comfy, cozy and full of fun and learning. My little guy (age 3) had never been in care before and I was so nervous about the transition but Dulci is so wonderful and seasoned in her profession that the process really has been easier than I ever could have dreamed. He enjoys school and his friends so much. He's learning not only letters and numbers but also about being kind and working through emotions. There is not a day he doesn't come home with a craft or artwork that he is so proud of and there have been many days spent learning and celebrating different cultures and holidays. It really is a very special place. She really does so much with them each day in such a short amount of time. I really can't say enough about this sweet little school. I am so thankful to have found it!"

ND

Natalie D.

Dec 2023 · Verified Parent

LK

Laura K.

Nov 2023 · Verified Parent

"I am so grateful to have found Dulci and Creative Hearts Daycare when my son was 26 months old. I have complete peace of mind knowing that he is in such a caring environment and his days are full of engaging activities ranging from yoga to painting to baking to reading to singing and dancing. Dulci is a great communicator and I love how she shares photos and updates of what the children are doing. My son loves going to Creative Hearts each day and sprints in as soon as Dulci opens the door!"

JT

Junko T.

Oct 2023 · Verified Parent

"Creative hearts is such a wonderful preschool! My 3 years old girl is currently attending and is so happy to be there. She had no English-speaking experience at all but due to the teacher, friends, and awesome education environment at school, she loves learning a new language. The teacher is so amazing, genuinely cares about kids, and is always patient. She does so many activities including writing, music, and kids yoga. My girl enjoys alphabet games, playing bells and xylophone, and posing yoga. All are learning through play and exploration. My girl gets intimate care in a small class. And having mixed ages is great, I think it helps social development. We are so glad to be part of Creative Heart and highly recommend it!"

GP

Gina P.

Sep 2023 · Verified Parent

"This school is so special. There are so many preschool options, I've heard many friends say it's overwhelming. Creative Hearts is a perfect blend of all things! They offer the comfort of a home environment (especially for our babes being raised during the pandemic) with the introduction of self-motivated growth and social connection. Meeting Dulci has been such a gift. She was born to do this work & I'm grateful my son has her influence in his life!"

Community Life

Our Community Events

At Creative Hearts, learning doesn't stop in the classroom. We celebrate seasons, cultures, and milestones together — building a warm, connected community for every family.

Easter Potluck
Seasonal
April 19, 2025

Easter Potluck

Families came together to share homemade dishes and celebrate the joy of spring. Children hunted for Easter eggs, decorated baskets, and enjoyed a feast of delicious food brought by our wonderful community.

Halloween Community Trick or Treating
Seasonal
October 31, 2024

Halloween Community Trick or Treating

Our little ghouls, superheroes, and storybook characters paraded through the neighborhood for a safe and spooky trick-or-treating adventure. Families joined in the fun with costumes, candy, and lots of laughter.

Community Potluck Event
Cultural
December 20, 2024

Community Potluck Event

We closed out the year with a heartwarming community potluck filled with performances and entertainment. Families shared homemade dishes, children performed songs and dances, and we enjoyed live entertainment that brought everyone together in celebration.

Join Our Community

Every event is an opportunity to connect, celebrate, and grow together. We'd love for your family to be part of our story.

Enroll Today

Featured In & Trusted By

Wonderschool
Google Reviews
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Licensed Provider
CPR Certified

Tuition & Enrollment

Transparent, flexible pricing for every family — monthly payments only

Limited Spots Available — Accepting Enrollments: 18 months to 72 months

Ages 18 – 72 Months

Program hours: 8:30am – 5:30pm

Most Popular

Full-Time

5 Days/Week

$2,300per month
  • Monday through Friday care
  • All meals & organic snacks included
  • Waldorf / Montessori / Reggio curriculum
  • Daily activity reports
  • Trilingual program (English, Spanish, Mandarin)
  • Indoor & outdoor play
  • Kids yoga & music lessons
  • Weekly progress updates
  • Priority enrollment

Part-Time

3 Days/Week

$1,700per month
  • Flexible 3-day schedule
  • All meals & organic snacks included
  • Waldorf / Montessori / Reggio curriculum
  • Daily activity reports
  • Trilingual program (English, Spanish, Mandarin)
  • Indoor & outdoor play
  • Kids yoga & music lessons

Part-Time

2 Days/Week

$1,300per month
  • Flexible 2-day schedule
  • All meals & organic snacks included
  • Waldorf / Montessori / Reggio curriculum
  • Daily activity reports
  • Trilingual program (English, Spanish, Mandarin)
  • Indoor & outdoor play
  • Arts & crafts supplies

Daily Drop-In Available

Full Day · 8:30am – 5:30pm · Subject to availability

$95 / month (1 day/week)

Registration fee: $150 (one-time, non-refundable)

Sibling discounts available · Monthly payments only · Subsidized care accepted

Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to common questions about our Walnut Creek childcare program

We accept children ages 18 months to 4 years old. Our program is designed to meet the developmental needs of toddlers and preschoolers, with age-appropriate activities and play-based learning experiences.

Still have questions about our family daycare?

Enrollment

Schedule a Tour & Enroll

We'd love to meet your family! Fill out the form below to request a tour and start your enrollment inquiry. We'll reach out within 24 hours to confirm.

What to Expect

We look forward to welcoming your family into our Creative Hearts community. ✨

  • Step 1: Submit Your Inquiry

    Once your form is submitted, our Director will personally reach out to confirm your tour time and answer any initial questions you may have.

  • Personalized Tour Experience

    Enjoy a 15–20 minute guided visit of our classrooms and outdoor learning space. We encourage you to bring your little one — this is their moment to explore and engage.

  • Meet the Teachers

    Connect with our caring, experienced educators and learn more about our daily rhythm, curriculum, and philosophy.

  • Enrollment Details

    If a spot is available and Creative Hearts feels like the right fit, an enrollment packet with all required paperwork and tuition details will be sent via email.

Tour Availability

Monday10:00 AM
Wednesday10:00 AM
Friday10:00 AM

Questions? Reach us directly:

(925) 263-6543
creatiehearts925@gmail.com

Parent / Guardian


Child Information


Tour Preferences

Available Mon, Wed & Fri only

10:00 AM

Tours last approximately 15–20 minutes


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Get in Touch

Ready to give your child the best start? Contact us today to schedule a tour and learn more about enrollment.

Visit Us

Location

914 Piute Ct

Walnut Creek, CA 94598

Hours

Monday - Friday

8:30 AM - 5:30 PM

Closed on major holidays

Phone

(925) 263-6543

Call or text anytime

Email

Creativehearts925@gmail.com

We respond within 24 hours

License

CA License #073409281

Fully licensed & insured

Request Information

Fill out the form below and we'll get back to you within 24 hours

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