Welcome … we are so glad you are here!
Providing developmentally
appropriate preschool programs to children ages 3-5.
Welcome to Small Friends School. A non-profit organization that has been part of the Southwest Portland community for over 30 years, we provide developmentally appropriate preschool programs to children, ages 3 – 5. We believe children are active, capable, and willing participants in their education for life. They learn best within the context of supportive relationships, through active exploration and investigation, and develop skills in social and natural learning situations. They need ample opportunities to play, problem solve, observe, predict, explore and create to construct their own understanding of the world around them.
Our curriculum and environment are designed to support children’s growth in three main areas: Brain Development, Self-Regulation and Social/Emotional Development, and Academic Skill Development. We draw from a variety of educational philosophies and approaches but the core foundation of our program is our belief that children learn best through direct interaction with a variety of adults and children, and that they should be actively engaged in exploration, investigation and play.
We believe the participation of parents is an essential element in our community. Your presence in our classrooms enables us to offer activities that would be difficult without your support. It also increases your child’s confidence in the importance of what s/he is doing. At Small Friends parents can expect to work alongside teachers in the classroom approximately once a month and to participate on one committee throughout the school year. Our collaboration in this capacity creates what we believe is an optimum environment for young children.
Take a moment to explore our site. Meet the Small Friends Staff and visit our School Blog to see what children are doing in our classrooms. If you have any questions or are interested in learning more, please contact us. We are always happy to answer your questions and visit with you about our program.
Warmly,
Lisa Sickler, Director
Our Location
Garden Home Recreation Center
7475 SW Oleson Road
Portland, OR 97223
Our Hours
Preschool Younger Classes
Age 3 by September 1st
Tues – Thur: 9:00 am – 12:00 pm
Preschool Older Classes
Age 4 by September 1st
M – W – F: 9:00 am – 12:00 pm
Sliding scale tuition assistance is available to all families who qualify.
For more information or to schedule a tour, please contact us.
Now Enrolling for 2022-23 School Year!
For more information or to schedule a tour, please contact us using the link below.
Our Classrooms
Our classrooms are large and are organized to allow children to explore a wide variety of activities.
Preschool Class Size
2 full-time teachers
2 parent volunteers
18 children
Areas in each classroom include:
Here is what parents are saying about us…
Testimonials about Small Friends School