Frequently Asked Questions
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1
What is the process for me to place my child on the wait list or to enroll in your program?
Please refer to our enrollment procedures for detailed enrollment information.
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2
At what time of year does enrollment occur?
We enroll year-round. Children may start at any time, subject to availability.
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3
Do you offer part-time care?
Yes, for children two years of age and older. Part-time options include 3 day programs (Monday/Wednesday/Friday) or 2 day programs (Tuesday/Thursday). We also offer half-day morning programs from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. for ages 3 and up.
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4
When is my child eligible for the half-day program?
When your child is at least 3 years old and potty-trained, you may enroll in one of our morning programs, subject to availability.
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5
How is parent-teacher communication conducted?
Teachers and Administrators are always available to speak with parents about any concern. Dropping off or picking up can be a busy time for staff. We encourage you to make an appointment so that undivided attention may be given to you. Teachers will communicate regularly with parents about their child’s progress and milestones being reached. Additionally, each child is sent home with a form daily that communicates how the child enjoyed school, as well as the activities of the child’s day. Each year in the spring and fall, teachers evaluate their students’ progress through assessments which accompany parent-teacher conferences. A parent may also request a meeting with their child’s teachers at any time.
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6
How do you address discipline in your program?
We utilize a “positive redirection” approach, in which we re-direct children to make appropriate choices. We encourage children to work together and “use their words” to solve conflicts. We give them key words to help communicate their needs. We do not use “time out”, however, we may occasionally give children a chance to calm down by having them engage in quiet time. We encourage empathy with others.
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7
My child has a hard time separating from me. What strategies can be used to help my child transition to the classroom?
Prior to your child’s first day, we recommend a scheduled 30-minute parent and child visit to school to become familiar with the teachers and the child’s classroom and playground. Parents are encouraged to remain positive about their child’s new experience and be optimistic about the new transition. It is a good idea to have many conversations about school before the first day. On the first day, parents are encouraged to drop their child off and get the child situated and comfortable. After a few minutes it is important to say good-bye and assure the child that you will be returning later. If needed, during the child’s first few days, a modified schedule may be recommended to ensure a smooth transition. Additional separation information is available at www.chs-ca.org.
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8
How can I find out how my child is doing?
Parents may phone or e-mail at any time. Parents may also request a parent/teacher meeting. We do have an open door policy so parents may drop in at any time but please stop by the office so that we can make sure the visit is not disruptive to the child or the classroom. Sometimes a peak through the window might be a better option.
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9
Does my child have to be potty-trained for the Toddler or Preschool programs?
Our Toddler program assists with potty-training when your child is ready; therefore, your child does not need to be potty-trained prior to entering the Toddler program. The Preschool program and above (3+ years) requires children to be fully potty-trained.
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10
What are your teacher/child ratios?
Our overall school child to staff ratio is less than 6:1, with individuals classroom ratios varying throughout the day. Our maximum ratios at any time (excluding nap time) are:
Infants & Young Toddlers: 4:1;
Toddlers: 8:1;
Preschool & Pre-Kindergarten: 12:1;
Kindergarten & After-School Academy: 14:1. -
11
Is parent participation encouraged?
We gladly welcome parents to join us for special celebrations, birthdays and presentations. Additionally, parents may volunteer in their child’s classroom or simply stop by to visit! A teacher may also ask for parent volunteers to help with a particular activity. If you would like to participate you may always ask the teachers for opportunities.
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12
How are birthdays and holidays celebrated?
We acknowledge all children’s birthdays making the day special for each child.
We celebrate multi-cultural holidays with an anti-bias curriculum. Because we are non- denominational, we observe common national holidays in a non-religious way.
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13
Are you affiliated with any religion?
No. We are a nonsectarian, non-denominational school.
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14
How do you compare to the Montessori teaching philosophy?
Our philosophy is developmentally oriented following a strong academic curriculum. Our program provides opportunities for being with other children in a setting conducive to the individual child’s development. We provide meaningful play to strengthen the child’s interests and natural abilities. This builds important foundations for gross and fine motor skills, as well as academic areas such as reading, critical thinking, and problem solving. We provide a warm environment for children where they receive the nurturing and continuous positive reinforcement they need to develop to their fullest potential.
The primary principle among developmental preschools is to promote participation in age-appropriate activities, such as hands-on play, group story-time, and self-expression. Children are encouraged to learn through play. Most developmental schools include academic content. Developmental preschools have philosophies that draw from multiple educational philosophies such as Reggio Emilia, Montessori and Waldorf.
Traditional Montessori programs are entirely child-directed within the learning environment. This method promotes a structured daily routine. -
15
What is the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) and why is it important?
Please refer to our accreditation page for further details.