A Home. A Studio. A School. All Three, with Intention.
Riverdale Dunthorpe Learning Center is a joyful, Reggio-inspired preschool for children ages three to six. In our intimate, Arts-centered STEAM program, children learn through play, hands-on inquiry, creative expression, literacy, and meaningful connections with nature.
Enhanced 3:1 educator support is provided during focused learning, with intentionally small child-to-educator ratios throughout the day. During calmer activities and optional-care periods, the ratio may be up to six children per educator.
Core day: 8:00 a.m.–2:45 p.m. | Optional care: 7:30–8:00 a.m. and 2:45–5:30 p.m. |
Our Philosophy & Approach
Reggio-Inspired Learning
- Children’s specific questions and unique interests drive our project based inquiry. As teachers, we listen, observe, and document their journey to extend learning further. By treating our natural outdoor world and indoor environment as teachers, we learn and grow together. Every family is a vital partner in this communal process.
Strong Literacy Foundation
- We build essential skills through phonemic awareness, meaningful conversation, and daily read-alouds. Children develop a genuine love of books while exploring self-expression through storytelling, journaling, and early writing exercises. Listening and reading comprehension aids the development of enjoying learning.
Arts-Centered STEAM
- The Arts are the creative thread connecting science, technology, engineering, and math. Through story- and play-based STEAM inquiry, children are invited to experiment, imagine, design, and solve problems while seeing their own creative ideas come to life.
- Children have the opportunity to present a project once a quarter to showcase their interests and learning.
Global & Cultural Awareness
- We provide joyful exposure—not immersion—to Mandarin Chinese, Spanish, and French. By integrating new languages into songs, stories, and daily routines, we celebrate global traditions and diverse cultural heritages with curiosity and respect.
Where We Learn and Play
Explore our thoughtfully prepared home, studio, classroom, garden, and outdoor spaces where children investigate ideas, create, collaborate, and connect with nature throughout the day.
music and movement room
Get in touch with us
We’re here to answer any questions you may have about our preschool program, philosophy, or enrollment process.
Our Location
13245 S Iron Mountain Blvd, Portland, OR 97219
Direct Inquiry
503-305-8500
hello@riverdaledunthorpelearning.com
Hours
Core preschool day: Monday–Friday, 8:00 a.m.–2:45 p.m.
Optional morning care: 7:30–8:00 a.m.
Optional afternoon care: 2:45–5:30 p.m.