One of Queen Anne's Oldest and Most Beloved Preschools
"The best preschool in Seattle."

— Hayley Berlin, Law Professor
at University of Michigan
Pond scene created by assistant teacher Talma Hargraves
Teachers
Head Teacher and Founder
Nadine Carcciolo
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Nadine received her classroom teaching experience at Stanford University Childhood Development Center, (now Stanford Center on Early Childhood). Influenced by English educator Dorothy Heathcote (Drama As A Learning Medium) she went on to create a teaching style that is a unique blend of drama, movement, and science.
A popular teacher at The Seattle Children’s Theater for over 10 years and Whittier Elementary School’s drama teacher for 15 years, she now teaches exclusively at her own expanding school. In addition to her energy and enthusiasm for children, she brings to the classroom her experience as a comic performer and a storyteller. She uses puppets and drama to teach children about the natural world. Her guiding principle is: “Laughter is the best teacher.”
"A thinking mind requires imagination."
- Nadine Carcciolo
Assistant Teachers
Talma Hargraves​
Talma joined our team in 2004 and continues to be adored by children and parents alike. Her calm, gentle teaching style nurtures children, resulting in increased developmental growth.
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As a graduate of The Art College Of Tel Aviv, an accomplished painter/sketcher and an elementary art teacher, Talma artistist knowledge and talent are an integral part of our arts-based curriculum. Whether we are creating giant squid paintings, planet dioramas or seasonal art projects, Talma passion for art shines through the children. She has inspired creativity and a love of art in many children.
Thomas Matysik
Thomas has been a teacher with The Children's Workshop since moving to Seattle in 2021. He uses his background in performing and teaching improv comedy to nourish children's imaginations and empathy.
As a musician on guitar and piano, Thomas has helped children gain an appreciation for making music, whether by letting kids perform along or by providing a soundtrack for adventures within The Children's Workshop. Inspired by the work of Fred Rogers, Thomas deeply believes that silliness and sincerity are a perfect pairing for emotional and creative growth.
Emma Najarian
Bio coming soon
