Mission Statement
Apple Tree University in Reseda, CA is dedicated to providing a warm, safe and nurturing environment where children always feel loved as they grow, learn and develop; where parents and caregivers always feel welcomed and respected; where teachers and staff always feel valued; and where everyone can delight in the joys of lifelong learning.
Apple Tree University believes that all learning takes place within relationships. We follow the theoretical underpinnings of Lev Vygotsky and take the stance that learning and cognitive growth is a social process. Therefore, our primary goal is to develop strong relationships with the children and families who enter our program. We also believe that children are fundamentally active learners who are naturally curious and excited to learn about the world around them. Like Jean Piaget, we believe that children are natural scientists who observe and experiment in order to construct knowledge. Therefore, our secondary goal is to ensure we provide children with an environment that is inviting and filled with opportunities for learning through hands-on experiences. We provide invitations and provocations to support children’s emerging interests and challenge them to think deeply and critically. We cherish children’s questions as opportunities to connect and dive deeper into their world while showing them the exciting world of research.
We believe that all children deserve to be part of an inclusive and equitable classroom. Following the groundbreaking works of Gloria Ladson-Billings and Zaretta Hammond, we understand children need challenging, culturally responsive classrooms in which to learn. Therefore, a third goal of our program is to create and maintain an environment rich in diversity where children and families see their home culture reflected in the school environment. Finally, we believe that the quality of our programs reside in the hearts of our teachers. When our teachers feel valued, respected and appreciated and when they are given opportunities for professional development and personal growth they will give their best to the children in our program. Therefore, our final goal is to ensure that our teachers are treated as early childhood professionals and given ample opportunities for their own development and life-long learning.
Early Childhood Philosophy
Our program is specially designed to meet the unique needs of infants, ensuring that they receive the love, care and attention required for healthy growth and development.
6 weeks to 24 months old
Freshman Class
Program Director, Owner
September Ewing, PhD.
(She/Her)
Dear Families, thank you for exploring our website and considering Apple Tree University (ATU) for your family. As the owner and director of ATU, I bring with me a wealth of experience and education in the field of Child Development. I hold a Ph.D. and Master’s degree from the University of California, Santa Barbara, in Education with an emphasis in Child and Adolescent Development. My academic journey began with a B.A. in Child Development from California State University, Northridge.
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In my professional journey, I have had the privilege of serving as the Preschool Director at Woodland Hills Private School, overseeing 225 children and managing a dedicated team of 25 staff members. Additionally, I served as the Preschool Director at Little Explorers Preschool where I led a team in caring for 120 children ranging from infants to pre-K. My journey in early childhood education began as a Preschool Teacher at Trinity Lutheran Preschool in 2005 where I taught three and four year olds for nine years. Prior to working in preschool, I had the rewarding experience of owning and operating a Family Childcare in my home.
While I enjoy learning about all things Early Childhood, my graduate research and interests focused on preschool curriculum development, science curriculum, nutrition and physical activity in early childhood and kindergarten readiness. I also love educating others about developmental science and have been teaching in the department of Child and Adolescent Development at Cal State Northridge since 2014.
I absolutely love teaching university undergrads knowing that I am inspiring them to give their best to the families they work with. However, I’ve always dreamed of being able to operate my own preschool so I could implement all that I’ve learned to benefit children and their parents. I am truly passionate about early childhood care and education, and I am dedicated to maintaining a warm, nurturing, and enriching environment for the children entrusted in my care.
​Warmly,
Dr. September
6 weeks to 24 months
At Apple Tree University's Infant Care Program, we understand the importance of providing a nurturing and stimulating enviornment for your little ones during their earliest stages of development. Our program is specially designed to meet the unique needs of infants, ensuring that they receive the love, care, and attention required for healthy growth and development. Our compassionate and trained caregivers are experienced in handling infants and are dedicated to creating a safe and loving atmosphere for your child. Our facilities are designed to be safe and engaging, featuring age-appropriate toys, equipment, and activities that encourage exploration and development.
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We understand that critical period of brain development during infancy. Our caregivers will engage your child in activities that promote cognitive, sensory, and motor skills development. Infants learn through their senses, so we incorporate sensory play into the daily routine to encourage sensory exploration and discovery. Our programs include gentle exercises, music and movement, simple art projects, and interactive play to support physical, emotional, and social development. We follow a well-balanced and age-appropriate nutrition plan, ensuring your child receives proper nourishment for healthy growth. We have designated areas for naptime, and our caregivers will follow your child's sleep schedule to ensure they are well-rested. Our facilities are equipped with safety measures to provide a secure environment for your child to explore and play.
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We recognize that each child is unique, and our staff will work closely with parents to understand their child's specific needs, routines, and preferences to provide personalized care. We believe in maintaining open communication with parents, providing regular updates on their child's progress, activities, and developmental milestones.
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As your child approaches the age of 24 months, we will work with you to facilitate a smooth transition into our Two's program (Sophomore Class), ensuring continuity and familiarity for your child.
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At Apple Tree University's Infant Care Program, we are committed to providing the best possible care for your child's early developmental needs. Our nurturing environment and focus on individualized attention will lay the foundation for a happy and healthy journey towards learning and growth.
Ms. Mariah Larkin-Ewing
(She/Her)
Program Administrator
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15 ECE Units
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B.S. in Engineering
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3 years experience
Mrs. Nadia Castro
(She/Her)
Assistant Director
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21 ECE Units
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9 years experience
Administration
(She/Her)
Ms. Judy Kraner
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36 ECE Units
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25 years experience
Teacher
(She/Her)
Ms. Angelica Cruz
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22 ECE Units
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2 years experience
Teacher
(She/Her)
Ms. Denise Del Rio
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21 ECE Units
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10 years experience
Teacher
(She/Her)
Ms. Maria Agular
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51 ECE Units
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10 years experience
Teacher
(She/Her)
Ms. Alexa Ticas
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12 ECE Units
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2 years experience
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Teacher
(She/Her)
Ms. Shirley Melgar
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In education since 2024
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Teacher's Aid
Meet our Teachers
Your child will experience a variety of activities and resources designed to promote brain growth during this critical time period in development.
2 to 3 years old
Sophomore Class
Did you know?
ATU teaching staff are highly qualified professionals in the field of Early Childhood Development and Education. Many of our teachers are actively pursuing higher education in Child Development and working toward the completion of their Associate’s Degree, Bachelor’s Degree or higher. Our staff is diverse in terms of age and personal background. Staff members are culturally diverse to reflect the rich background of the children in our programs.
Our programs strive to instill a deep, intrinsic love of learning so that children are excited to learn and to share with others that they know. Classrooms are organized with structured learning centers and activities.