We want your child’s first preschool experiences to be a positive one, as this will lay the foundation for their future educational mindset.

 

Can I choose which days my child attends?

Our programs all run consecutive days. Everyone starts on a Monday and attends either 3, 4 or 5 days/week.

This is for two reasons.

• consistency is important for children, this helps to get children comfortable with our preschool, staff and other children quicker and prevents/limits separation issues.

• Our special programming (music, French, art and yoga) is set on certain days so that everyone receives what is included in the program they are registered for.

 

Can my child stay 4 hrs after gradual entry?

A child led program that is also a Montessori program is unlike other programs. Children are taught independence from the start by letting them choose their own activities and by showing them routines such as cleaning up and putting their work away. This can be emotionally and mentally exhausting. Children require a build up from our 2.5 hr program to our 4hr program and this time frame is different for each child. As soon as our educators see that your child is emotionally and socially ready to stay longer, we will let you know, as it is our goal for all children to be able to successfully stay in our 4hr program.

 

My child was in another program. Why does my child need gradual entry?

All children, including returning children start with gradual entry. New children to our center need a gradual entry to get use to being away from their parents in a new environment, with new children and adults that they are not familiar with. A rushed start can lead to longer separation anxiety, emotional distress and in some cases a regression in toileting.

 

My child still naps. Can they stay 4 hrs?

Children that are regularly napping (3-5x per week) are not ready to stay emotionally or developmentally in our extended programs. Even though we are child led, have very few transitions and have “quiet” areas, we do not have a napping area. Our child led programs which teach independence and self regulation, can be emotionally and mentally exhausting. Children still napping, become over tired in the 4hr program, become dysregulated quicker and more often, which leads to emotional meltdowns. We will let you know as soon as we see they are ready to stay with us longer!