Seeking a Preschool

Typically, many preschool programs start 2 years before the start of kindergarten, with a gradual increase in "academic" type activities as they approach K. What preschool is great for is the introduction to a school setting, and all that it entails (waiting in line to wash hands, sharing toys, sitting for snack time, learning to respect other adults, time away from parents, etc.) Learning to navigate the social scene is many times more important that the academic stuff.

I live in the north metro, so I can't give you a recommendation. But, there are a few different types--school readiness programs offered through your school district, preschools affiliated with a church (which may or may not integrate a faith-based curriculum), Montessori, general private, and day care centers that also offer a PS curriculum. (I'm sure I'm missing some--this is a general summary.) I'd start with researching the philosophies of each, determining what you're looing to get out of school, and then narrow your search from there.

Good luck!!

Most preschools do require that the child is potty trained before starting so 3-4 years old works for most kids. My son was a late potty learner but our local ECFE preschool allowed him to attend if I stayed at the school. When he was 4yo he attended Dodge Nature Preschool in West St. Paul and I cannot say enough good things about it. The teachers are amazing, the setting is stunning, and the program is fantastic. People come from all over the Twin Cities to attend.

The most important thing about preschool is not having it be overly academic. Instead, look for a preschool that is play based but has teachers that are very skilled at helping the kids develop their social skills (how to share, get along with other kids, listen to directions, and transition from activity to activity, etc).

While I can't give you any ideas on where a good preschool is in your area, I can say that typically kids do not start preschool until the age of 3. They have to be potty trained and 3 by Sept. or you will have to wait until the followin year. My daughter turned 4 a couple of weeks ago and she was not able to start preschool until this year.
Hope this helps, Good Luck!!

Hi S.,

I've also heard that Dodge Nature Center is a great preschool. Maple Grove Playhouse Preschool (at their community center) is wonderful as well (you say you may be moving . . .). Many school districts also offer preschool options and some even have bussing that you can pay for if transportation to a part day program is an issue (you can bus from daycare).

In Northern Brooklyn Park there is also a preschool program called Highpoint Preschool and Child Care (actually in the Anoka school district and not far from the Coon Rapids Dam). My oldest daughter went there as we were looking for a preschool option and we were both working full time. It was WONDERFUL. They have hours of the day they say are "preschool" and hours that are "child care", but really they are learning all day long. They plant a garden in the summer, they cook, they have computer time, and all of the other activities that other preschools have. She was more than prepared to start kindergarten.

Good luck to you!
M.

FRASER in Richfield, just south of 62 off of Penn (behind Lunds). I've had both of my girls their and my oldest just started Kindergarten. I started my youngest at 18 months which is considered "Nursery School" then at 3 they go to "Preschool" the year before Kindergarten they start ready for K. They do a great job, the teachers are awesome and best of all, my children actually liked going!

www.fraser.org

Good Luck!
A.

My son turned 3 in August and we started preschool this fall. He's not really fully potty trained...does not go poop in the toilet, but seems to be able to hold it and not go at preschool. He goes to preschool 2 days a week, for 2 1/2 hours a week. It has been WONDERFUL for him. I was wondering if I was pushing it too early, but it has been great for him. But then again he has not been in daycare. I think 2 years before Kindergarten would be ideal. I've talked to a number of kindergarten teachers who say they can tell not only which children have been in preschool, but which ones have had 1 year versus 2. I was overwhelmed with choices of preschools but in the end went with our Church's program which has been running for 40 years. Their main focus is socialization and learning how to behave in a classroom setting, but they do work on academics as well. next year the focus on learning will be a little more emphasized, but not obnoxious. I have a friend whose child is going to a private school's program, and it's a completely different thing. They have versus they have to memorize each week! Her son is doing well there, but it would be horrid for my child. He is a doer and to this day cannot sing the right words to any song! Take a look at some that are easy and convenient for you. Have an understanding of how your son seems to learn and compare the programs to that. A school can be incredible for one child, and less than ideal for another. Good luck!

Look into Lake Country School - an AMI Montessori school in Minneapolis. it's got a long waiting list, but it's well worth it.