Preschool Mission Statement
Saint Joseph Preschool is committed to developing the whole child in a safe, Catholic environment. We nurture a child’s love for God, sense of self, and respect for others. We foster learning through play, and we value parents as our partners in the guidance and care of each child.
11/4/16 Program Update: We are in the process of closing our Preschool program, as we expand our TK program into two classrooms for the 2017-2018 school year. The last day of Preschool operations is June 9, 2017. We are deeply grateful for our dedicated Preschool teachers and staff!
Preschool Program Goals
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Starting Preschool
It takes courage to go to preschool – courage on your part to leave your little one and courage on your child’s part to negotiate a new environment. Your child will learn how to feel safe, get his/her needs met, and build relationships with adults without mom or dad to facilitate.
Here are some tips on helping both you and your child during the first few weeks of preschool.
- Tell your child what to expect. For example, you can say: “Mommy/Daddy is going to take you to preschool today. I wonder if there will be...(something that interests your child, like dinosaurs, trucks, or dress-up). You can tell me when I (or whoever) pick you up (or when you get home).
- If you feel that your child will need a parting ritual, talk about what it will be. You can say, “I will blow you a kiss... give a thumbs up ... or wave goodbye ... and then you will go with your teachers.” Use your ritual as the children join their teachers and classmates.
- Please remember to never sneak out on your child. Always say, “Goodbye! I’ll be back to pick you up after preschool!” – even if he/she cries. If necessary, the teachers will help you. They will always offer comfort and reassurance to your child.
- Please do not linger where your child can see you. Once you have said goodbye, leave the classroom with confidence. Your attitude will convey to your child that you trust this new environment and that she will be safe.
Here are some suggested books to help you and your child prepare for preschool.
- It’s Time for Preschool – Written by Esmé Raji Codell, Illustrated by Sue Ramá
- Bye-Bye Time – Written by Elizabeth Verdick, Illustrated by Marieka Heinlen
- When I Miss You – Written by Cornelia Maude Spelman, Illustrated by Kathy Parkinson
- I’ll Always Come Back! – Written by Steve Metzger, Illustrated by Joy Allen