Meet Katarina Mandal, the heart and mind behind Wishing Star Preschool — a warm, imaginative space where learning truly comes alive. Rooted in the belief that children grow best through creativity and play, Katarina has created an environment that encourages curiosity, confidence, and connection. Beyond the classroom, her passion for early development and community shines through, as she continues to give back to Benicia’s families in meaningful ways.
Benicia Moms Group had the chance to sit down with Katarina to learn more about what inspires her work, what makes Wishing Star special, and how she helps children find joy in learning every day.
What inspired you to start Wishing Star Preschool?
Wishing Star began with a painting. Before I ever imagined opening a preschool, I was illustrating a children’s book; one of those paintings became the Wishing Star logo. It reminded me that every child is a little star with their own light, and that vision still guides me each day.
I’ve always felt deeply connected to children, creativity, and nurturing. My family shaped that even more. I’ve been blessed with a wonderful husband, Ajit, and three beautiful stepchildren, Krishna, Niall, and Sophie, and later, our son Adam. When the older kids grew up and moved out, our home grew quiet, and I realized how much joy I wanted to continue sharing.
That’s when Wishing Star took form. I created a preschool that feels like an extension of home: warm, calm, filled with natural colors and my artwork. A place where children feel safe, loved, and free to shine in their own unique way.
How do you foster creativity, kindness, or independence in your students?
The early years are the foundation of life, and my priority is to guide each child with love, respect, and a deep appreciation for who they are. At this age, children are learning how to understand the world, express big feelings, and discover their own voice. My role is to support that journey gently and intentionally.
Because we keep our group small, every child receives the attention they deserve. That closeness allows for genuine connection, emotional safety, and meaningful social learning. Children practice kindness, empathy, sharing, and problem-solving with the same friends each day, which builds true understanding, not just polite interaction.
Creativity and independence show up in many forms here: a special art project, a little clay vase for Mom, a hand-painted canvas for grandparents, classical music in the background, or simply time to explore their own interests. Every activity is chosen with purpose and heart.
Above all, we protect their childhood. We want our little stars to feel confident, capable, loved, and free to enjoy being children, while learning to care for themselves and others with kindness and empathy.
What makes Wishing Star unique in its approach or philosophy?
Wishing Star is a blend of creativity, gentle structure, and heartfelt care. Art is woven into every day here. We paint, sculpt, and craft together, giving children a way to express feelings and imagination long before they have all the words. Families often tell me their homes turn into little galleries, and I love knowing those pieces become cherished memories.
Our environment is calm, warm, and consistent, so children feel safe to explore, try new things, and build confidence. We model kindness in simple daily moments, whether it is helping a friend, sharing materials, or celebrating one another’s small wins.
Through art, thoughtful routines, and nurturing relationships, children learn to listen, to care, to express themselves, and to believe in their own abilities. That is what makes Wishing Star special, and it is a joy to be part of each child’s journey.
What’s one thing you hope every child takes away from their time at Wishing Star?
I hope every child leaves Wishing Star knowing they are loved, capable, and special. My wish is that they carry kindness with them, treating others with empathy and joy. And if a little spark of creativity stays with them, whether through a painting, a song, or simply a happy memory, even better. More than anything, I want them to remember the feeling of being safe, seen, and free to shine.
