Enrollment

Children must be at least 22 months old at the time of enrollment. 

In June, 2020, After a three month hiatus,  due to Covid, our indoor/outdoor program transitioned to primarily an outdoor program. We have learned to embrace that and, going forward, we will be staying outside most of the time. 

Morning Free Play

We start each morning with free play. Children's favorite toys, along with a rotating selection of others, are available to match their interests and abilities. We prefer toys that stimulate imagination, such as puzzles, dolls, dress-up clothes, cars, trains, blocks, and play dough. Free play allows children to settle in and move freely between play areas, friends, and staff. With a staff-to-student ratio of 1 to 4, we ensure every child's needs are met.

Snack Time

After cleaning up from free play, we transition to snack time. Typical snacks include fresh fruit, whole-grain crackers, yogurt, and whole-grain cereal. We always consider children's food allergies and sensitivities.

Circle Time

Next, we gather for circle time, where children enjoy stories, songs, finger plays, felt board activities, and movement exercises. Children are encouraged to participate and communicate with staff and each other. While we are a play-based program, we seize opportunities to promote early literacy and math awareness.

Art Activities

Following circle time, we usually engage in a literature- or theme-related art activity. Daily activities include coloring, pasting, painting, and cutting, with an emphasis on the creative process rather than the final product.

Music Class

Once a week, our music teacher, Stephanie Pepitone, brings her guitar for a dynamic and engaging music class that invites singing, movement, and playing musical instruments.

Active Play

Children have both structured and unstructured opportunities for active play. We do not use TVs, DVDs, or computer games. Instead, we listen to music, dance, and engage in fun activities that promote interaction. In our spacious yard, children can run, ride, climb, pretend, dig, and explore. Outdoor time varies with the weather, but with a covered play area, we ensure daily fresh air.

Lunch

Our final activity is lunch. Before Covid, we provided lunch indoors, but now children bring their own lunches, and we provide milk or water. Lunch is a time to enjoy food and focus on socialization and table manners. We still provide a wholesome mid-morning snack.

Reading and Library Time

We have a passion for children's literature and an extensive library. While fragile books are kept out of reach, most books are at preschool level and meant to be handled. We encourage children to "read" and often read to them.

Social Skills Development

Our program includes rich language arts and math activities, but our primary focus is creating a warm, stimulating, and safe space for children to develop their social skills. We delight in watching children transition from parallel play to fully engaging with one another. At Yellow House Playschool, children learn sharing, compassion, patience, and develop a sense of community.