Philosophy & Mission

Our philosophy is based on the belief that children learn best in an early childhood program that provides developmentally appropriate educational experiences in an integrated setting.

Our early childhood program is designed to provide a stimulating learning environment that supports the social, emotional, cognitive and physical development of every child. In our classrooms, through work and play, children actively engage with friends and teachers, learning social and play skills as well as the skills needed for Kindergarten.

Teachers guide, support, and when needed, directly teach our children developmentally appropriate play and social skills. Our aim is to build a community of learners by providing children with enriching experiences to develop self-confidence, independence, problem-solving, cognitive and social skills. We respect the dignity, worth and individuality of each child and are committed to helping children achieve their full potential. Our goal is to help children grow up confident in their own identity and respectful of other people.

The preschool program recognizes the significant relationship among teachers, students, parents, and families and encourages continuous collaboration in a climate of mutual respect, cooperation and shared responsibility.

Daily Routine

• Arrival / free play (art, table and floor toys, dramatic play, blocks, sand & water and fine motor activities)
• Circle time (songs, stories, finger plays, calendar, and literacy awareness)
• Center time (various academic, art, drama, and exploration centers based on themes for the week)
• Bathroom and hand washing
• Snack
• Gym/outside time (skill development, gross motor activities, song, games and use of equipment)
• Goodbye Circle (hand out mail such as newsletter or art)

*On occasion, variations will be made due to special events*

Program Information

Tuesday / Thursday

OR

Wednesday / Friday

Children must be at least 4 years of age, and potty trained, to attend our program.

School Hours

Morning classes 8:50 am – 11:20 am

Afternoon classes 12:20 pm – 2:50 pm

School Year

Our program runs from September until mid-June. During our school year, we follow the same schedule as the District Calendar.

Transportation

Transportation must be provided by the parent/guardian. Some students with special needs will be provided District transportation. This will be determined as part of the IEP process.

Dropping Off and Picking Up

Stop in the office, sign in your child and take a Preschool Pass. Prior to class, teachers are busy getting the classroom ready. We ask that you arrive no more that 5 minutes before the start of class.

Clothing

Play clothes are essential to preschool. Please dress your child in comfortable clothes to play, paint and explore in. While we encourage the use of paint and water shirts, sometimes children do get dirty! Please send an extra set of clothing as spills happen. All articles must be labelled with your child's name. We do ask that shoes be clean when worn inside.

Toileting

Because independent use of the bathroom is encouraged, we ask that you ensure your child wears clothing that is easy for them to get in and out of. A few minutes at home practicing with buttons, zippers and snaps is helpful.

Snack

Eating is an important social activity. You will need to provide a snack and drink for your child. While children will be encouraged to try snack, they will not be forced to eat if they choose not to.

Preparing for school

Some children do experience anxiety. We understand it can be hard for both parent and child to say good bye. It is our experience that a quick good bye at the door, leaving the trained staff to handle the situation, is best. Books such as Franklin Goes to School by Paulette Bourgeois or The Kissing Hand by Audrey Penn can help. Consistent attendance, being on time both at the beginning and end of the day, and a positive attitude, can only help to ease anxiety.