Preschool

This program is for ages 2.5 to 4 years of age.

Schedule:
The program schedule offers free play learning opportunities, snack and meal times, outdoor play (weather permitting), group activities and a rest period. Toileting routines occur regularly throughout the day and on an as needed basis. Our schedule is flexible and in tune to the needs of the children. A copy of the schedule is available upon request.

Program:
It is our goal to provide a nurturing, educational program that meets the needs of the individual child within the context of the whole group. The program offers education through play opportunities to support milestone development and early literacy and math skills. Weekly program plans offer details about the activities offered through various learning centers such as, creative art, dramatic play, science, construction, sensory and group projects and activities. A monthly calendar is sent home with each child highlighting special events (ie. pajama day), trips (ie. apple orchard), guests (ie. community helpers) and opportunities for parental involvement (ie. open house).

Meals and Snacks:
Meals and snacks are enjoyed in the lunchroom at Aurora Children’s Centre and in the classrooms at Cardinal Carter. For more information about our dietary staff and menus, please see our nutrition section.

Toileting:
Washroom routines allow for opportunities to educate the children on proper hand washing techniques and good hygiene practices. The teachers will work alongside parents whose child is in the process of toilet training. Our goal is to work with the individual child at their own pace, offering encouragement, support and positive reinforcement.

Rest Time:
A quiet time is scheduled between 12:30 and 2:30 pm each day. For those children who sleep, the teacher will assist by ensuring they are warm, comfortable and settled. Quiet activities will be offered to those children who do not sleep. Each child is provided with their own cot and bed sheet which are washed and disinfected at the end of each week. Blankets and soft sleep toys are to be provided by the parent. These will be sent home to be washed at the end of each week.

Daily Communication:
You, as the parent, are the real expert on your child. Daily communication with the teachers is very important. Is your child on medication? Have you moved to a new house? Are you expecting a sibling? All of these things can have an impact on your child. If you are too hurried in the morning or afternoon to speak to your child’s teacher, feel free to call during the day to share information or to ask questions.

The following is a list of items your child will require on a daily basis:

  • Blanket and soft sleep toy
  • One full change of clothing (more if toilet training)
  • A family photo
  • Outdoor clothing appropriate for the weather
  • Replacement meals if your child has food allergies or is on a special diet