Creative Spark Montessori
A nurturing space where childhood flourishes, designed to support your child's curiosity and passion for learning in a safe, innovative environment.
From childhood, Chaya Stone-Berlstein felt a deep calling to nurture young minds and hearts. Her treasured memories as a camp counselor across many magical summers planted the seeds for her lifelong devotion to children and the natural world that surrounds them.
Chaya’s educational journey took her to Reed College and Portland State University before she discovered her true calling in Montessori education. She earned her Montessori certification from the Montessori Institute Northwest in 1993, launching a career that would span three decades and touch countless young lives across Oregon, Washington, and Connecticut.
Between her Montessori teaching and raising her own beloved children, Chaya enriched her practice through diverse experiences as a librarian in Norfolk, Connecticut, and as an art educator in the beautiful Berkshires, where she sparked creativity in children of all ages. These varied roles deepened her understanding of how children learn and grow through multiple pathways.
After many fulfilling years in Connecticut, Chaya’s heart called her back to her cherished Oregon. There, she founded Wisteria Vine Montessori toddler community, creating a space where little ones could flourish in their earliest learning adventures.
In 2022, destiny led Chaya to a sweet little house nestled in its own garden—the perfect setting where Creative Spark Montessori was born. Today, this enchanting space continues to welcome children into joyful learning.
Chaya’s rich tapestry of life experiences weaves naturally into her work with children, creating a program that is both organic and transformative. Her mastery in visual arts brings color and creativity to every corner of the classroom. Her deep connection to movement infuses the days with dance, yoga, and embodied learning that honors how children naturally express themselves. Her passion for gardening and nature study creates outdoor classrooms where children can dig their hands into soil, observe the changing seasons, and develop an enduring love for the earth.
Art and movement, gardening and literature, and unhurried time in nature—these are the distinctive elements that make the Creative Spark community a place where children can truly flourish.
We invite you to schedule a tour and share a cup of tea with Chaya, where you can discover the extraordinary possibilities that await your child and family at Creative Spark Montessori.
Chaya Stone-Berlstein
Head Teacher
Our Approach
Montessori education, developed by Dr. Maria Montessori, centers on child-led learning in prepared environments. The Children’s House for ages 3-6 was her foundational vision—a carefully designed space where young children develop independence, concentration, and love of learning through hands-on exploration.
Montessori envisioned children choosing their own activities from purposeful materials, working at their own pace, and developing practical life skills through real tasks like pouring, cleaning, and food preparation. Mixed-age groups foster mentorship and collaboration. The beautiful benefits include enhanced self-confidence, intrinsic motivation, respect for others, and joyful discovery of the world. Teachers act as gentle guides, observing and supporting each child’s natural developmental unfolding rather than directing learning from above.
Meals & Nutrition
The children are provided with lunch and healthy snacks throughout the day. All meals are gluten-free, peanut-free, and can be vegan friendly upon request prepared on-site with the help of the children. Lunch and snacks are included in tuition with no additional fee.
What Parents Say
Discover why families love Creative Spark Montessori.
"As first-time parents, we felt so grateful for the warm and welcoming environment that Chaya provided. Being a part of her Montessori preschool community truly helped our son blossom into an independent and vibrant little learner"
– James & Kaitlin
“We have enjoyed watching our son grow and develop with Chaya. He has really come into his own at Creative Spark Montessori"
– Denise & Isaac
"Chaya has a natural ability and instinct with kids. My son thrived attending her Montessori school. Her patience and nurturing attitude relayed confidence to our family and our son loved his experience.”
– Tamara & Erik
Location
Creative Spark Montessori is nestled in a peaceful cul-de-sac in SE Portland, providing a nurturing environment for your child's natural curiosity.
Address
5282 SE Tenino Ct, Portland OR 97206
Hours
8 AM - 3 PM