Toddlers share a cheetah while their parents chat with preschool directors
Braving the tree-strewn streets in the wake of the October snow storm, parents, some with their toddlers, were met by members of the Coalition’s Schools Committee and some members of the Neighborhoods & Civic Engagement Committee who run our annual pre-school open house. They were first treated to a talk by South Mountain Principal Tina Lehn who challenged parents to look for programs that are child-centered, that foster curiosity and a love of stories, and that feel like nurturing environments. She also told parents that social skills like being able to sit and listen and being kind to the other kids along with developing a sense of numbers and a strong interest in stories are the main ingredients for kindergarten readiness.
After this introduction to the world of early childhood education, parents visited with the many preschools, daycare centers, and special programs for preschoolers in our area.
Parents visit preschool displays
A comfy place to sit while mom and dad learn about preschools
Jane Folger, Maplewood Library Youth Services Coordinator; Carol Barry-Austin, Chair of the Schools Committee; Charlie Bibbins, volunteer with Neighborhoods & Civic Engagement Committee
Parents get information from school providers
