1. What kind of curriculum do you use?

We use a developmentally appropriate theme based plan.  We have monthly themes and teachers plan their lessons and activities according to the theme, with certain flexibility and sensibility to draw on the interests of the children as well.  We plan a blend of teacher-initiated activities, and children’s self-directed activities and play.

2. Do you teach Presbyterian theology?

This is a Christian program where the children will learn Bible stories, sing Christian songs, fingerplays, activities, but it is all non-denominational.

3. Will my child learn letters, numbers, colors, ABC’s?

Children will learn all that as they are exposed to a print rich environment, as they explore books, songs, fingerplays, conversations with adults and other children. Your child also learn self-help skills, how to get along with others, sharing, taking turns, cooperating and solving problems.

4. What will a typical day be like for my child?

Our typical schedule consists of arrival, centers choice time, circle time, diapering/toileting time, snack time, outside time, small group activity time.

5. How many children are in the class?

Two Year Old Room – 8 children, 2 adults

Three Year Old Room – 10 children, 2 adults

Four year Old Room – 12 children, 2 adults

6. What kind of training have the teachers had in teaching preschool?

Our teachers have varied experience in teaching preschool and working with young children.  Teachers are required to have a degree and all staff participates in ongoing training.  Our staff is certified in CPR/First aid.

7. What is your approach to discipline in the classroom?

We do not use time out, but rather redirection – which helps a child focus on what is allowed rather than what isn’t.  Teachers point out logical consequences for children’s actions and follow through with caring but firm limits.

8. Does my child need to be toilet trained?

Two year olds do not have to be toilet trained. Threes and fours should be toilet trained.

9. How much time will my child spend outside?

Weather permitting children will play outside at least for ½ hour each morning.

10. Do you have an “open door” policy? 

Definitely, we encourage parents to visit and ‘pop in’ anytime.  We also promote open communication with teachers and director when it comes to any concerns, questions, and suggestions.

11. What can I do at home to support what my child learns in school?

Consistency is a key factor in a child’s development. We encourage parents to communicate with the teachers and learn words that we use in preschool, limits we have for the children, activities they are particularly interested in, duplicate those at home.

12. What does “developmentally appropriate” mean?

“Developmentally appropriate” describes an approach to teaching that respects both the age and the individual needs of each child. 

13. Is my child going to “play” a lot in preschool?

“Play” is a child’s “work”!  Children understand things when they use or experience them directly – they learn more through play than any other way.

14. What skills will my child learn?

Socially, your child will begin learning to share, not only toys but also adults, other children. Emotionally, the child’s self-esteem will grow as he/she is encouraged to do things for themselves. Physically, fine-motor skills such as cutting, pasting, stapling, taping and painting will be sharpened on a daily basis. Gross-motor skills, such as running, throwing, jumping, will be practiced outside.  Intellectually, the child will have opportunities to develop math and science skills – matching, sorting, measuring, observing.  Language skills will grow through conversations with friends and teachers.  Spiritually, the child will learn that God loves them and care for them and others.