How much time is required to participate?
You can expect to spend a few hours a month on your preschool job. In addition, you’re expected to participate in Parent Education sessions and general meetings as well as engage in any fundraisers and fun events throughout the year.
Can I bring my younger child with me on Participation Days?
No, the Preschool is not insured for any additional children other than those enrolled.
What kind of jobs do parents do?
Parents coordinate the running of the preschool. Jobs range from accounting, fundraising and planning of social activities through to repairs and maintenance on our building. We try to match jobs with each family’s unique skills.
I have a newborn infant. What do I do about participation days and meetings etc.?
The school allows a period of leave during which a parent is exempt from preschool responsibilities. However, you are more than welcome to bring your infant (baby in arms) to Parent Education sessions and General Meetings (or other special events at the Preschool).
How are the jobs assigned?
In the Spring, once the next year’s class list has been settled, a committee from the Executive meets to assign roles for the upcoming year. Effort is made to assign jobs based on each parent’s preference and skills as indicated in the Registration Package. If none of your preferences can be met, we will contact you to discuss all available options.
What if my child requires me to stay a bit longer to settle during the session . Can I stay with them?
Both the 3’s and 4’s classes have a gradual entry schedule that will help children adjust. Our teachers recognize that every child/family is different and caregivers are encouraged to discuss any concerns with them. The teachers will work with you to ensure your child’s transition to preschool is a positive one, and we have no strict policies regarding having a caregiver stay with their child if that’s what’s best for the family.
My child might benefit from extra support. Will their needs be met?
We believe in the practice of equitable and meaningful inclusion and educational experiences for all children by creating unique relationships together with every child and family. We believe that to create diverse community we must learn, honour, and acknowledge one another’s cultural, linguistic, developmental, physical, spiritual abilities and ways of Being and Knowing. We work closely with Supported Child Development and have resources for families to draw upon including support workers as well as bursary programs. Please let us know when you register if you think your child might benefit from extra support, and we will help you connect with our teachers who have the resources and experience to address your questions.
Is the building wheelchair accessible?
As we operate out of an heritage building, unfortunately we are not a wheelchair accessible space.
What is the policy for sick children?
Our specific policy is outlined in our Parent Manual, which you will receive upon Registration. We ask that sick children stay home if they are unable to participate fully in the Preschool program or if you suspect they may infectious to other children or staff. Children may return when symptoms of illness have resolved for a minimum of 24 hours without medication.
Does my child need to be toilet trained?
No. Our school recognizes that each child develops at his/her own pace.
What does my child need to bring to preschool?
We spend a lot of time outside, so dress your child for whatever weather the day brings! Dress your child in clothes that you don’t mind getting dirty or stained (‘play clothes’). Children should also have:
- A FULL set of spare clothes in their cubby, including socks and underwear
- A pair of indoor shoes your child can leave at school
- A bike helmet so that your child can use the preschool bikes
- Remember to pack a snack for your child
What type of snack should I pack for my child?
We encourage healthy eating habits at preschool, as well as environmentally friendly snacks. Water is available at school, and juice or other beverages are discouraged. Our Preschool is a nut-free zone!
- Please pack your child’s snack in a small bag/lunch box, labelled with your child’s name.
- If possible, use reusable containers.
- Sending containers that your child can manage by him/herself is helpful to the adults, and confidence boosting for the child.
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