Pre-K Programs in New Tampa

My daughter attends Family of Christ on BBD. She loves it. She is learning how to write her name, sound out letters to help with spelling etc. I do not think Pre-K/VPK is about learning everything you need scholastically for Kindergarten. I think that it is to help the kids learn how a classroom works, listening to a teacher, waiting your turn etc. My daughter loves her school and is already learning how to spell/read. I think finding a school that is nurturing and one that develops a love for learning is the important part. My daughter's teacher used to teach elementary school and runs her classroom exactly like a Kindergarten room. Good luck!! I cannot say enough for Family of Christ.

My son attended La Petite Academy on Regents Drive. I was incredibly impressed with this facility. They were very kind and loving and provided a great introduction for my son to what was expected at school. He learned all the basics and how to behave in a classroom at this school. His kindergarden teacher had mentioned that it was very obvious which students had attended a pre-K program and which had not. My son is now nearing the end of 1st grade and gets straight E's. In short, I feel that La Petite went above and beyond and am very grateful that my son had the opportunity to attend school in this wonderful and enriching environment. (My son still asks to go to La Petite when school is not in session, eg Summer Camp, after school and Spring Break.)

St. James is good - but I agree that they are not focused on academics (my daughter went there several years ago) My 3 year old is currently at Bright Horizons - Hunters Green. I like it however, I do not know what school district you are in, but I have signed my son up for the pre-K at Hunter's Green Elem. for next year. It is excellent and will get him used to a full day schedule - he is ready for that. Several of my children's teachers have their kids going there and they are very happy with it.

Whatever you do, don't take her to Kids R Kids in Meadow Pointe.

Hi! I don't know any info on the other two, but my boys (also born in March 2005) currently go to St. James and we love it. As you said- very loving and nurturing- and they have learned quite a bit last year and so far this year in the preschool. A friend had her daughter in a Montessori school, but switched her to St. James for VPK this year. It was a hard decision for her, but she couldn't see continuing to pay for Montessori. She is a very bright little girl and my friend is very happy with her decision. If you are interested, I could always get your info to give to her and she could contact you to discusss any questions you have... just let me know.

K. :)
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Both of my kids attended Family of Christ on BBD for preschool. They are in K and 1st now, and are FAR ahead of the other kids in their class. I would completely recommend FoC to anyone.