About Us
We are a play-based home learning community where children ages 2.5–5 can explore, create, and discover. We focus on self expression through art, connection with the natural world, and anti-bias education. Our emergent curriculum adapts to the children’s interests, allowing learning to unfold naturally in a way that’s engaging and meaningful.
Our goal is to provide a safe, welcoming space where children can be themselves—expressing, creating, and growing with the support of a caring community. Each child is valued, celebrated for who they are, and encouraged to develop the confidence to learn and interact with the world around them.
Art
We believe that children express themselves in many ways. Inspired by the Reggio Emilia approach, we embrace the idea of the “100 Languages”—where children communicate, explore, and make sense of the world through many forms of expression. Whether through painting, building, dancing, or imaginative play, art becomes a natural way for children to express their thoughts and emotions.
Our play-based approach gives children the freedom to explore different artistic experiences. We encourage creativity through hands-on projects, sensory activities, and open-ended play that allows them to express themselves in their own unique way.
Anti-Bias Education
At Moon Flower, creating a supportive, inclusive community is at the heart of what we do. Our anti-bias curriculum teaches children to respect and appreciate differences while fostering kindness and empathy. Through stories, acting, play, and meaningful conversations, we help children learn to embrace what makes them and others unique and also what connects us.
We empower children to stand up for themselves and others when faced with unfairness, guiding them to understand fairness and justice. By weaving these values into daily activities, we help children build a sense of confidence and empathy that they can carry with them into the world.
The Wonder of the Natural World
We believe that the natural world is full of wonders to explore and learn from. We encourage children to connect with nature and develop curiosity about the world around them, both outdoors and indoors. With natural materials throughout our space, children can explore textures, colors, and elements of the natural world in a hands-on way. Whether observing changing seasons, discovering bugs outside, or engaging with nature-inspired materials inside, we believe that nature is an essential part of learning and play.
By interacting with the natural world, children learn important skills like problem-solving, observation, and critical thinking. We teach them to respect and care for the earth, nurturing a love for the environment and the world’s wonders.
Meet our teachers
Alisha Flowers
Director & Teacher
Hello! I’m Alisha Flowers (she/her), teacher and director at Moon Flower Preschool.
I’ve been a preschool educator since 2009 and served as the program director at Tulip Tree Preschool for three years before opening Moon Flower in September 2020. It has been an incredibly rewarding experience!
Throughout my career, I’ve focused on anti-bias education, creative expression through the arts, and fostering a deep connection to the natural world. Inspired by the Reggio Emilia approach from Italy, I believe in the power of emergent curriculum and the importance of learning that evolves organically from children's interests and curiosities.
What I love the most is the connection I make with each child. The opportunity to see the world through their eyes is continuously inspiring and reminds me to stay curious.
My passion for teaching began while I was a student teacher at the Helen Gordon Child Development Center during my time at Portland State University, where I earned my bachelor’s degree.
I’ve had the privilege of leading workshops at the Threads of Justice conference at Wild Lilac, as well as facilitating staff trainings at Tulip Tree and Creative Science School on topics such as supporting children’s gender identity and expression and exploring economic class and fairness with young children. I was also honored to be interviewed by Katie Kissinger for her book Anti-bias Education about my work with children.
I am deeply grateful for the vibrant, warm and supportive community we’ve built together at Moon Flower!
AB Wild
Afternoon Teacher
Hello! I’m AB Theodore James Wild,
But you can just call me AB like ABC :)
My pronouns are He/They!
I have a bachelors in sociology with a focus on global inequality and a minor in psychology with a focus on child development!
I’ve worked with and for children the last 7 years in many capacities: nannying, foster care, teaching preschool and kindergarten ages, and even spent a month in South Africa serving children and their caretakers. My goal with each child I get the honor of knowing is to create a space where they are seen, heard, and loved unconditionally; giving them the safety to grow and learn at their own pace. Teaching has always been my biggest passion and I look forward to getting to know your unique and beautiful family!
Bones Pearl
Morning teacher
Howdy! I’m Bones Pearl, I use she and they pronouns.
I’ve always loved working with kids, and have experience in a variety of settings. For the last year I’ve been an Insect Educator at the Portland Insectarium and Bug Zoo, but previously I’ve worked as a lifeguard, a swim instructor, a camp counselor, a babysitter, and a nanny.
I love to encourage curiosity in children, and find joy in discovering with them and exploring their interests deeply and authentically. I draw from a wide set of interests in the natural world — I love bugs, but also birds, plants, and even geology.
I value the uniqueness of each child, and hold space for them to feel comfortable, loved, and safe. I hope to cultivate an environment of excitement, curiosity, and wonder in the classroom!
Hours and Location
Location
NE Portland, OR (Vernon neighborhood)
Hours
8am-5pm, Monday-Friday
Contact
Alisha Flowers, moonflowerpreschool@gmail.com
Testimonials
“Alisha taught our two kids over the span of 6 years, and we had a fantastic experience! Alisha is truly interested in knowing each child, and delights in details of their play that we never would have noticed. Her calm presence permeates the whole classroom, and her expertise in anti-bias curriculum and gender-diversity was a lifesaver for my family. By the end of our time with Alisha, she had taken on the role of director as well, keeping the community organized and informed with her friendly and understanding communications. We are truly lucky to have had Alisha as a central part of our children's early childhood education, and we highly recommend any family to her new preschool.”
-KP, Parent
“My son was Alisha’s student, and she was one of his favorites! We were incredibly lucky to have someone with her knowledge, skills, and imagination working with him. Alisha was incredibly caring and attentive to my son. He talked all of the time about her stories and how much he loved talking to her. She is absolutely an amazing teacher!”
-JC, Parent
“Our daughter has attended Moon Flower School since the day the doors opened and she has thrived there. Alisha and the other teachers have created a safe, nurturing, and fun environment and the thoughtful attention to using an anti-bias curriculum is something our entire family has benefitted from. It was nerve-wracking to start at a new school in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, but Alisha is extremely careful and the safety precautions and open lines of communication have eased our worries. Our daughter adores Moon Flower and has made great friends during her time there, has learned so much, and we will be sad to say goodbye when kindergarten starts next fall.”
-EW, parent
“Alisha was the program director of the preschool our son attended and we couldn't have been more pleased with the experience he had. Alisha cultivates an environment that feels immediately warm and welcoming and in which children feel connected, respected and celebrated for who they are. She is clear in her values and brings a calm and confident presence. We saw so many sides of our son flourish and develop in Alisha's care and under her leadership; namely his curiosity, his creativity, and his sense of self. As parents, we felt like Alisha was a true partner in our son's wellbeing; someone who had an authentic relationship with him and genuinely cared for him. Alisha also fostered a healthy and engaged community of teachers and families that all cared for one another. We are incredibly grateful for the role she played in creating such a special and solid early educational experience for our son and family.”
-SL, parent