My name is Elena Ramirez, and I have proudly operated Happy Face Family Preschool since January 12, 2004. Before opening officially, I worked as a home care educator with my assistant for over nine years, supporting children and families in our community.
For me, meeting a parent’s need for early care is more than providing a safe, supervised environment—it’s about creating a nurturing space where children can learn, explore, and thrive through meaningful early childhood experiences.
Two young explorers carefully observe a flower with magnifying glasses, discovering nature up close and sharing curiosity together.
PURPOSE AND GOALS
At Happy Face Family Preschool, our curriculum emphasizes the importance of self-esteem, personal discovery, and respect for individual differences. We believe children are natural learners, born with curiosity that inspires them to question, explore, and discover the world around them. Our developmental, play-based approach blends a thematic curriculum of art, music, language, and service activities with opportunities for free play—blocks, games, puzzles, manipulatives, outdoor toys, and climbing structures.
Each child’s individual learning style guides their choices of activities, with both spontaneity and daily routines woven into the program. Music, movement, storytelling, role-play, and physical activity are essential elements, while field trips to local playgrounds and community destinations extend learning beyond the classroom and connect to our themes.
We value family partnerships and welcome parents to visit at any time, as well as join us on field trips and special events.
Hours of Operation
Happy Face Family Preschool is open Monday through Thursday from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM and Friday from 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM. Parents may choose either an 8:00–4:30 schedule or an 8:30–5:00 schedule (Fridays end at 4:30 for all).
We follow a consistent daily routine that provides structure while allowing flexibility. Activities vary according to our monthly themes as well as the children’s interests, energy, and feelings each day—ensuring a balance of stability and responsive, child-centered learning.
- TYPICAL DAY
Arrival: Hand washing, temperature check, and free play
Healthy Breakfast
Circle Time: Books, calendar, feelings, and plan for the day
Pre-K Projects (10:00 AM): Small group learning and hands-on activities
Outdoor Play & Discoveries (11:00 AM)
Lunch (12:00 PM)
Quiet/Nap Time (1:00–3:00 PM)
Snack Time (3:10 PM)
Afternoon Play: Outdoor or indoor play, clean-up, and preparation for pick-up
We spend about two hours outdoors every day in our backyard, engaging in gross motor play and sensory activities. Our program also includes field trips throughout the Bay Area to museums, the zoo, parks, and other enriching destinations.
Elena Ramirez
Program Director/Lead Teacher
Our Teachers
I hold a Bachelor of Arts in Raza Studies with a concentration in Early Care and Education, but much of my knowledge comes from hands-on experience working directly with children, families, and the community of Early Care Educators.
My passion for this field began in childhood, when I was always drawn to playing the role of a teacher. Today, I remain deeply committed to protecting early childhood from the pressures of rigid academics and standardized testing, while championing the value of play as the foundation for learning, growth, and discovery.