Our Philosophy
At Wishflower Playschool, we see children as capable, curious learners whose ideas and questions guide our curriculum. Inspired by Reggio Emilia and nature-based learning philosophies, we
believe meaningful learning happens through play, exploration, and authentic experiences instead of worksheets or formal instruction. We thoughtfully design our spaces and daily routines with the belief that the environment is the third teacher. Our home, outdoor spaces, and surrounding community invite children to slow down, observe, wonder, and engage deeply with the world around them.
During daily walks and outdoor adventures, children may notice birds, insects, plants, and changes in the seasons, all of which spark questions and shared discoveries. Educators carefully observe and listen, using children’s interests to shape ongoing learning experiences. Back at home base, children revisit and expand on their discoveries through open-ended art, music, storytelling, and hands-on projects, such as creating bird feeders, working with natural materials, or exploring books about local San Diego wildlife.
Through a responsive environment and intentional teaching, we nurture creativity, connection, and a lifelong love of learning rooted in curiosity and respect for the natural world.
Meet Casi, founder & director
Casi brings a lifelong passion for working with children, shaped by a diverse background in early childhood care, developmental therapy, and arts education. She began working with children at age 13 as a babysitter, piano teacher, and art camps instructor.
Casi earned her B.A. in Art and Psychology from Point Loma Nazarene University in 2018. During and after college, Casi worked with children in a variety of roles, including After-School Program Group Leader, Teaching Artist at The New Children’s Museum, K–8 Art Teacher, 1st & 2nd Grade Assistant Teacher, and Developmental Therapist supporting children on the autism spectrum.
Before opening Wishflower, Casi was an Infant-Toddler Nanny for six years, running nanny shares for San Diego families. Drawing from her experience across home-based care, classrooms, museums, and therapeutic settings, Casi brings a holistic, play-based approach to early learning inspired by Reggio Emilia and nature-school philosophies.
Casi’s vision for Wishflower Playschool is to partner with families and provide nurturing, fun-filled care where children feel valued, inspired, and encouraged to explore, play, and create through outdoor adventures, art, and music every day.