Playgroup
Program hours:
8:45am-12noon
The Playgroup is available 2, 3 and 5 days per week from 8:45 am - 12 noon*. To enroll a child must be turning 2 years old on or before August 30. Children do not have to be toilet trained.
For many of our kids, this will be the first time away from home without a familiar face. In the Playgroup program, we introduce your child to social situations and start a journey to independence.
Early in the program, children learn structure in following rules and expectations. We have a daily routine that starts with a morning meeting, sharing the activities for the day, talking about weather, the calendar and theme for the week. Each child has a hook for his/her own coat and backpack and during the course of the school year, they will become responsible for hanging up their coats and backpacks.
Our days are spent singing songs, reading books, doing arts and crafts and having a snack in the classroom. During “Community Time”, the classes play together and the children are allowed to explore toys and activities of their choice. For the first few months of the year, this is done within the programs. As time passes and the children become seated in their routines, the Playgroup classes enjoy Community Time with the preschool classes as well. This is an introduction to the classrooms they will occupy in the next year, as well as familiarize them with the Preschool program teachers. The children also spend time each week in the music room with Mrs. Gill, at MoveIt! with Mrs. Parent that includes dance and tumbling and daily playground time.
We have a monthly visit from the Henrico County Bookmobile. There are also many special events throughout the year including a petting zoo with pony rides, Henrico County fire safety with a chance to climb aboard a real fire truck, portraits twice a year with Happy Face Photography, Dr. Suess week with mystery readers in every classroom, Pajama Day, a Leprechaun Hunt and Pumpkin Party! The Playgroup also participates in our Christmas and End of the Year programs.
Our children learn to say grace at snack time and lunch (should they stay for extended hours and lunch bunch). They learn Bible songs and stories as they apply to the weekly lesson and during holidays.
The staff will reinforce potty training when the child shows interest, provided that the process in ongoing at home. Teachers encourage parental involvement whenever possible. There are many opportunities to volunteer, whether it be in the classroom or at events. Fostering an open dialog with your child’s teacher is the best way to accomplish a successful, enjoyable his first year at preschool.
*The hours are not adjustable.
