Respectful Care, Rooted in
Experience & Philosophy.

Meet our team and learn about the philosophy guiding Cherry Ridge.

A woman and two children are talking outdoors near a wooden structure, with the woman wearing a large white sunhat and the children wearing hats, one in orange and blue and the other in blue, looking at something on the surface of the structure. The background features green trees and a bright, sunny sky.
A smiling elderly woman with curly gray hair outdoors, wearing a pink quilted jacket and a beige scarf, with trees and green foliage in the background.

Donna Hogeland Stusser
Founder

Cherry Ridge Family Daycare is the fulfillment of a lifelong journey in Early Childhood Education—one that began with my very first job in high school as an associate at Four Seasons Daycare in Philadelphia, PA.

Over the past 40 years, I have pursued extensive training that makes this work deeply fulfilling, including earning a Waldorf teaching certificate. I am a candidate to become a Pikler® Pedagogue (pikler.hu).

Throughout my career, I’ve worn many hats: postpartum doula, preschool teacher, live-in and daytime nanny, full-time mom, and homemaker. I facilitated parent-infant and toddler classes at Summerfield Waldorf School for 20 years.

What continues to awe me is the deep connection the children form with one another and the joy they experience simply being together. It brings me great pleasure to share my home of 28 years with the Cherry Ridge daycare families.

A woman wearing glasses, a brown beanie, and a gray quilted jacket standing outdoors near a white picket fence and lush greenery with pink flowers.

Bethany
Educator

Bethany’s passion for childhood development began in her own early years, growing up among caring adults who were also early childhood educators. With a deep respect for the unique rhythm and individuality of each child, she is committed to creating nurturing environments that support secure attachment and autonomy.

Along with her Waldorf teacher training certificate, Bethany holds an Associate Degree in Early Childhood Education, a Bachelor’s in Children’s Literature and Illustration, and a Master’s in Marriage, Family, and Child Counseling Psychology. She also draws insight from her work with horses, which has strengthened her sensitivity to non-verbal communication and embodied presence—qualities that deeply inform her approach to childcare.

Woman wearing a blue jacket standing outdoors in a natural setting with trees and a white picket fence behind her.

Maya
Educator

As both a dedicated caregiver and a mother of a teenager, Maya brings a blend of professional experience and personal insight to her work with children. She finds great joy in supporting young children as they grow, explore, and discover the world around them. 

Her journey in childcare spans over 30 years. She specializes in one-on-one caregiving, including former international work as an au pair. She also has experience assisting with the Roots and Shoots program at Summerfield Waldorf School. 

Outside of Cherry Ridge Daycare, Maya is a professional seamstress and enjoys reading, walking, spending time with loved ones, and volunteering on handwork projects and class trips through her daughter’s school.

Our Philosophy
Respectful Care & Natural Rhythm

Inspired by the work of Dr. Emmi Pikler (1902–1984) and the Pikler Institute in Hungary, we practice and embody respectful caregiving, ensuring children feel secure in their connection to their caregivers. Pikler’s approach closely aligns with the R.I.E. philosophy of Magda Gerber.

We honor each child’s journey toward becoming an independent and confident self, encouraging self-initiated play, healthy movement, and the freedom to explore.

Our program also reflects Waldorf values, nurturing a deep relationship with the natural and spiritual worlds. Toys and playthings are chosen thoughtfully to gently educate the child’s senses.

Each day, we cultivate a profound sense of joy and wonder as we spend time together, discovering the natural world around us.

"In the child - and even in the infant - there is, by nature, an inexhaustible and ever increasing interest in the world and in himself (herself)"

-Dr. Emmi Pikler 

Two young children are sitting outside near a sliding glass door, engaged in conversation and play.

General Information
The Essentials

We are a California State Licensed Large Family Daycare 
License Number 493010295 

Focusing on the care of infants and toddlers, ages 4 months to 3 years.
Nestled on a ridge between Sebastopol and Occidental, on the ancestral land of the Coast Miwok and Southern Pomo tribes.

We are primarily an outdoor program where children eat, sleep (some, but not all), and play surrounded by birdsong, gentle breezes, sunshine, light rain, and fresh air. We take regular walks and tend to our gardens, harvesting seasonal fruits and even enjoying edible herbs and flowers.


Hours

Monday through Wednesday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM

Tuition
Please inquire here.

Note
All children must enroll for all three days, but you can create a schedule that works best for your family.

Handbook Link
Downloadable PDF of Cherry Ridge Handbook

Children playing in a sandbox in a backyard, with a slide and trees with autumn leaves.