At Open Gate Nursery School we believe that a rich, active environment is the best stimulus for children’s development in all areas and that it is through play that children best learn about themselves, others, and the world around them. The philosophy is to motivate and challenge the most advanced preschooler without putting pressure on children in a different stage of development, or with different interests. With the exception of small group time and circle time, children freely choose their own activities with a balance of time spent indoors and out. Structure and transitions increase as children progress through the program.
Programs and Fees | Parent Participation
2-Day Class
Teacher: Teacher Kristina
Time: Tuesday and Thursday 9:00 – 11:30 a.m.
The 2-Day program is for students who are 2 years old, focusing on a child’s first experiences at school. These include experiencing time away from parents, independently choosing play, sitting with peers and serving themselves snack, socializing with peers, and basic conflict resolution.
3-Day Class
Teacher: Teacher Kristi
Time: Monday, Wednesday, and Friday 9:00 – 11:45 a.m.
The 3-Day program is mixed-aged, for students who are 3 and 4 years old. Preschoolers learn best when they feel safe and secure in their environment, can connect what they learn with past experiences and current interests, and have opportunities to explore and play. This developmentally appropriate program meets the needs of children intellectually and socially, in addition to experiences for large motor, small motor, and language development. The integrated curriculum provides children opportunities for learning language and literacy skills, mathematics and science, social studies, art, music, dramatic play, and movement.
Pre-K Program
Teacher: Teacher Kristi
Time: Thursday 12:30 – 3:15 p.m.
The additional Pre-K class gives the children in their final year of preschool an extra afternoon to continue building on all the skills they are gaining during the multi-age 3-Day class time. More transitions and structured group times are added in for Kindergarten readiness. Additional Pre-K experiences include discussion, public speaking with monthly shares, and more in-depth thematic lessons over the course of the year.
Lunch Bunch
Teacher: Teacher Kristi
Time: Monday, Wednesday, and Friday 11:45 a.m. – 3:15 p.m.
The Lunch Bunch option is great add-on if your child wants to spend more time at Open Gate, or for parents that want or need the afternoon coverage.