Preschool programs for 2 year olds: Programs for Children

Опубликовано: December 21, 2022 в 11:21 am

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Категории: Miscellaneous

YMCA Preschool | Great Start Readiness

Preschool Education Programs

We recognize that success starts early. We offer convenient hours and affordable pricing!

Preschool Ages: 2 1/2 years old – 5 years old (ages vary by location) | A Y Membership is NOT required
We believe your child should be prepared to start kindergarten ready to succeed. Our Preschool programs provide an educational environment that is a friendly, positive and caring place to help each student discover his or her own unique gifts. Our engaging curriculum helps children reach developmental milestones and prepares them for academic learning. We believe that all kids deserve the opportunity to discover who they are and what they can achieve.

Our Preschool programs are offered at many locations throughout the Greater Grand Rapids area.

BY USING CREATIVE CURRICULUM AS OUR FRAMEWORK, WE FOCUS ON:

  • How children develop and learn
  • The learning environment in which children learn
  • What children learn
  • The role of the teacher
  • The role of the family

PARENT INFORMATION

We believe learning takes place as children touch, manipulate, and experiment with things and interact with people daily. Children’s play is an essential component of our curriculum, through their play and experiences, themes are developed that guide our daily activities and interactions.

At the Y, we utilize Creative Curriculum which has six core content areas: literacy, mathematics, science, social studies, arts, and technology. The Y has identified two additional content areas: Healthy Habits and Social, Moral, and Spiritual Development.

Our programs use the Creative Curriculum individual assessments and also child portfolios to assess your children’s developmental progress annually. The teaching staff and families discuss the results of the assessments and plan for continued growth throughout the year.

Our Benefits

Licensed

– Full/Part-time child care available
– Low child-teacher ratios

Various Activities

– Gym activities
– Outdoor activities
– Onsite swim lessons for preschoolers (Varies by location)

Assistance

Financial Assistance available to those who qualify

Healthy Living

– All children enrolled full-time receive a free Y youth membership
– Healthy Meals and Snacks

Family Matters

Family engagement activities

FREE PRESCHOOL: GREAT START READINESS PROGRAM (GSRP)

We are proud to partner with Kent Intermediate School District and the State of Michigan to provide families in need free preschool opportunities through our Great Start Readiness Program locations that offer the same high quality program and benefits as our traditional preschool programs. To be eligible children must turn 4 on or before September 1.

GSRP REGISTRATION: visit Kent ISD and request the Y or call 616.885.5525.

SEE IF YOU QUALIFY

We would love to care for your child, but we are currently on a waitlist. If you would like to be added to this list, please choose your location below and click on JOIN OUR WAITLIST.

If you are new to the Y, you must create an account to join our waitlist. There is a $25 non-refundable fee per child to place your child’s name on this waitlist. You would then be notified when an opening becomes available.

Questions? Please call 616.855.9622.

PARENT RESOURCES & FORMS

financial assistance application

Preschool Locations

List Map

Caledonia YMCA Child Development Center

Preschool Care

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2 1/2 – 5 years old

Hours:

Monday – Friday, 6:30 am – 6:00 pm

David D.

Hunting YMCA Child Development Center

Preschool Care

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join our waitlist

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2 1/2 – 5 years old

Hours:

Monday – Friday, 6:00 am – 6:00 pm

David D. Hunting YMCA Great Start Readiness Program

Preschool Only Program (Free)

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join our waitlist

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4 – 5 years old

Hours:

Monday – Thursday 8:30 am – 3:30 pm *Must qualify, call to inquire.

Generations Child Development Center

Preschool Care

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2 1/2 – 5 years old

Hours:

Monday – Friday, 6:00 am – 6:00 pm

Lakeshore Elementary

Preschool Care

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3 years – 5 years

Hours:

Monday – Friday, 6:00 am – 6:00 pm

River City Scholars Great Start Readiness Program

Preschool Only Program (Free)

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join our waitlist

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4 – 5 years old

Hours:

Monday – Thursday 7:00 am – 4:00 pm*Must qualify, call to inquire.

YMCA Child Development Center

Preschool Care

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join our waitlist

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2 1/2 years old – 5 years old

Hours:

Monday – Friday, 6:00 am – 6:00 pm

Visser Family YMCA Great Start Readiness Program

Preschool Only Program (Free)

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join our waitlist

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4 years – 5 years

Hours:

Monday – Thursday 8:30 am – 3:30 pm*Must qualify, call to inquire.

Yankee Clipper Library Great Start Readiness Program

Preschool Only Program (Free)

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join our waitlist

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4 – 5 years old

Hours:

Monday – Thursday 8:00 am – 5:00 pm*Must qualify, call to inquire.

YMCA Child Development Center at Monroe Community Church

Preschool Care

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join our waitlist

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2 1/2 – 5 years old

Hours:

Monday – Friday, 6:00am – 6:00 pm

YMCA Jacquline Baber-Bey Early Childhood Center

Preschool Care

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join our waitlist

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2 1/2 – 5 years old

Hours:

Monday – Friday, 6:30 am – 6:00 pm

Childhood Experience Required

Find a “Hire” Calling in Child Care!

Seeking a Preschool for a 2 Year Old

Questions

  • Seeking Oakland preschool for two 2.5 yr olds
  • Preschool or Daycare for 2 yr old near Richmond
  • Spaces left in a nursery school that accepts 24 mo
  • Part time pre school for two year olds in Alameda?
  • Pre-K recommendation for outgoing, social 2 y. o.
  • Preschools in Oakland/Berkeley for 2-year olds?
  • Looking for a small preschool for 2-year-old
  • Cozy, fun preschool for 2-year-old
  • Part-time two’s program in Oakland?
  • Culturally diverse Part-time preschool in El Cerrito/Albany?
  • Programs for 2-year-olds in Oakland area?
  • Parent/child programs for 2-year-olds?
  • Part-time program for 2.5 year old
 
Seeking Oakland preschool for two 2.5 yr olds

April 2013

Hi, I am seeking a preschool with two openings for the fall for my twin girls born 4/11. I was a stay at home mom until last month so I wasn’t planning on preschool until fall 2014, but I’m back at work unexpectedly and now would love to get my girls into a program given our new circumstances. I’m not married to a particular approach (Montessori, play-based, etc.). My only requirements at this point are that it offer full days (8 to 5 maybe? – will probably do 3 or 4 days/week) and be near us (in Oakland, Upper Rockridge. ) I commute to SF via Rockridge BART so a place right near the station would be a big plus. I know most programs start filling their fall classes earlier in the year, so my expectations are low for what’s out there, but you never know! Thanks! C


You might want to look into My Own Montessori in Rockridge. They have a wonderful program and caring teachers for the age range you want and it is close to the Bart station (across the street from Trader Joes). I’m not sure if the hours will work for you (8:00am -2:45pm) but thought I would mention it. anon


You should look into Claremont Day Nursery. They have two locations near Rockridge Bart. One is on College Ave, almost right next to the Bart stations and the other is on Claremont Ave right above College. They accept kids two and up and having rolling admission. I strongly considered sending my daughter there and was impressed during my site visit. They have great hours and for the area is reasonably priced if that is a consideration. Working in Rockridge


Hi there, Not sure if you’ve looked at Temple Sinai Preschool yet, but we highly recommend it. Our 2 children go there (our daughter is in her 3rd year and our son is in his 1st) and we’ve been extremely happy with our experience there. The school is play-based and, although it is a Jewish preschool, they welcome all families (Jewish, Interfaith, non-Jewish, etc). The teachers are wonderful…warm and friendly and they really connect with each child. Our kids have made great friends there and we’ve even developed some amazing friendships with other parents we’ve met through the school. It really is a great community.

Regarding extended care, they do offer early care (dropping off as early as 8am) and aftercare (until 6pm). Feel free to email me if you would like more information, or you could contact the preschool director to schedule a tour (ellen [at] oaklandsinai.org). Although it is unusual, there are some spots still open for next year. Good luck in your search! Adrienne


You never know- you might find something great. I think sometimes the whole ”waiting list” thing is overrated. My kids have all attended quality schools and never been on long wait lists for years on end. To answer your question more specifically, I feel like I have seen recent postings on BPN for Rockridge Little School openings, as well as for Claremont Day Nursery- both located near the BART in Rockridge. I don’t have personal experience with these schools, but have had friends with kid at both places. Hope you find the right fit for you and your kids! Good Luck!


Could you fit South Berkeley into your commute? I highly recommend The Model School, 2 blocks south of Whole Foods, off Telegraph. They enroll year-round and offer full-day flexible scheduling, not to mention that my kid is very, very happy there! It’s closer to Ashby BART than Rockridge, but perhaps you could BART from there? Model School Mom


I’d like to recommend Vivan Los Ninos Preschool to you. My daughter started there when she was 2 years-old; she is now 3. 5 and attends 2 days/week. Although she was one of the youngest in the beginning, the school is play-based, and the teachers do an exceptional job of encouraging play (as well as respect and communication)among all ages. My husband and I had alternated care of my daughter until she was 2, and only sent her to school at that point b/c a spot opened at VLN. It is a small home-based daycare/preschool center (about 10 kids/day, ages 2-5) run by Hilda Manzanero and her assistant teacher, Delia. Together, they provide the kids with love, an amazing outdoor playspace, and 2 home cooked meals per day. The facility is immaculately kept, the kids are treated with kindness and respect, and are taught to treat others in kind. My daughter is so happy there, and we feel great while we are away. We also live in Rockridge (moved here after she’d been in school there for 6 months) – we explored schools closer to home, but ultimately feel the drive is worth it (Fruitvale exit off 580). It may not work for your commute, but I encourage you to check it out. Hours are 7:30-5pm, breakfast & lunch are home-cooked, and rates are very reasonable. You can check out a few new reviews on yelp – although Hilda’s been running the school for 15 years on referrals only, there are many kids ”graduating” to kindergarten next year, so she has a few openings. Simmin


Preschool or Daycare for 2 yr old near Richmond

Nov 2012

I am looking for full time care for my 2 year old son beginning sometime at the beginning of next year. We live in the Pinole/San Pablo/Richmond area, but will travel anywhere to El Cerrito or Hercules for the right place if it is relatively convenient to the freeway. My son has been going to a school for about 6 months, but it doesn’t seem to fit quite right with his personality. It is play based, which we like in theory, but my son is a little reserved around other kids and with 12 other, mostly older, kids running around I think he kind of gets lost in the shuffle. We would like a smaller place with a low teacher to student ratio. We appreciate the Montessori philosophies and my son LOVES all kinds of music if there is anything available which incorporates those. He also always wants to be outside so we really want a place with a nice outdoor space where they spend lots of time. Lastly, we would like to find a place that is under $1,200/month if possible. I would love to hear any recommendations or if you think your daycare/school might be a good fit. Thanks so much! Searching for a Better Fit


Recommended:

  • Child Education Center (Berkeley)
  • Mother’s Pearls (El Cerrito)
  • School on the Hill (Richmond)

Tati’s Family Daycare (El Cerrito)


Spaces left in a nursery school that accepts 24 mo

Sept 2012

My family and I just moved into the area (Elmwood but ok to drive)and are looking for a space in a nursery school (preferably part time)for this fall. My daughter is just turning two and not potty trained. I would love a parent coop but I know that will be hard to find. Something somewhat affordable would be great but all the ones I love are not! I love Happy Baby in Elmwood and Happy together in Piedmont. Nia House looks great too. We’re on all the waiting lists but it looks like slim pickings for the fall. Any suggestions? Thanks!


Hi, there are openings in the toddler program (called PACT, stands for Parents and Children Together) at Broadway Children’s School in Oakland-children need to be 2 years old by December of the year they enroll, so it sounds like your child’s age is right on. It is a co-op program and meets two days a week– amazing staff and a great program. Your child definitely doesn’t need to be potty-trained. It’s in the Adams Point neighborhood, near Fairyland side of Lake Merritt. Call the school for a tour 510-763-9337 or check out their website broadwaychildrensschool.org. The school has been around for almost 60 years and the current director for 20 years. The toddler program hasn’t yet begun for the year, so you haven’t missed anything. Highly recommend!!! Jennifer


Our 2-year-old daughter is starting Gay Austin next week and I know there are still openings. She isn’t potty trained – and none of the 2-year-olds are. It’s a little bit of a drive from the Elmwood (Gay Austin is over near Monterey Market) We’ve heard great things about the school and can’t wait for her to start. Contact Pat Cosgrove at pcosgrove [at] earthlink.net. John B.


Rockridge Little School on Taft is a charming pre-school that accepts 24 month old’s. My son is 3 and is having a wonderful time at the school. The teachers are gems – they are very warm and diverse. The space is cozy and ample, toys are multi-sensory. There is always art, sports and circle time; they had near daily science projects going a few months ago which i hope continue. You might want to talk to the owner Holly about affording tuition Holly [at] rockridgelittleschool.com. It’s worth it if you can swing it. happy mom


Part time pre school for two year olds in Alameda?

Feb 2012

Does anyone have a recommendation for a good part time (2-4 mornings a week) pre school in Alameda that takes two year olds? I’d love a school that is either exclusively part time or has a good number of students who leave at lunch so that my daughter isn’t the only one being pulled away. Any leads/sharing of experiences at these schools would be much appreciated! anon


I think your options include ABC preschool [owner/teacher Karen is great, but the other teacher wasn’t our style], rising star Montessori (cottage campus) – which people rave about but even though we could walk to it (huge plus) we gave the main campus on high street a try for 2 weeks and moved on – many different issues from not enough teacher communication for us, to basics like helping kids open lunch box containers – but, as I said, many people love it. I think Child Unique Montessori also takes 2 yr olds. Son light preschool also is half day. No matter what, please call licensing about any preschool you may consider sending your child to – I was very surprised by what I learned. -Good luck


Pre-K recommendation for outgoing, social 2 y.o.

Feb 2012

My daughter will be 2 in June and I am looking for the right preschool program for her to begin in the Fall. She is quite bright, outgoing, and curious about people and the world. She tends to jump in very quickly to new situations and really, really enjoys interacting with other children. She loves/needs big open spaces and she is very physically active. We are hoping to stay within Oakland where we live, and we need a full-time or 4-day program.

I am particularly stuck on this question of larger center vs. smaller home-based setting, and wondering what would be the best fit for her. I really see the advantages to both; and we’ve got so many great places around here to choose from… I’m feeling slightly overwhelmed! Any ideas or recommendations will be greatly appreciated. Thank you.


Skyline preschool would be good, but I believe they (and many preschools) only take kids from 2 yr 9 mos. You could call to check. Great outdoor area, multi-age, 1 classroom for around 34 kids. I would consider going with the larger school for a kid that is very social and loves interactions with others. That way there are more kids and more teachers to interact with, and also there may be more special activities with visiting people (like dance teacher etc). The other thing is after a few years at a school your child may get bored with the other kids, especially when she is the oldest level of kids, because the younger kids are fascinated by the older kids, but the older kids aren’t that interested by the younger kids. Anyway, you are lucky to have a social kid, it will make preschool easier to adjust to, whereever you go. anon


Preschools in Oakland/Berkeley for 2-year olds?

Dec 2011

Does anyone know of preschools taking 2-year olds in the Oakland/Berkeley area? I know that there are many taking kids closer to 3. Any recommendations would be great. Thanks for your help! East Bay Mom


Many preschools start at two. A few examples: Small Size School (Bari Nelson’s) in No. Berkeley and Rockridge Little School, Mills College, and Happy Together in Oakland.


Our daughter goes to Temple Sinai Preschool in Oakland at 28th and Broadway. Children need to be 2 to start, and don’t need to be potty trained. We love it there, the teachers are fantastic and it’s a wonderful community. Kia


I would recommend Wee Two Toddler House run by Sharon, near MLK & Cedar in Berkeley. She is a very sweet, caring grandmotherly figure who has up to 5 kids between 2-3 yrs old. It is perfect for a 2-yr old just starting out in an situation larger than individualized care, but perhaps still too young for full-fledged preschool. Kids have outside and inside time. She does lots of painting, rotates toys, has a small slide inside, has a medium-sized back yard with toys, swings, garden, etc. Happy Parent!


Happy Together Preschool in Piedmont is enrolling 2-year olds. You can check their website for details (www.happytogetherpreschool.com). Their curriculum is AMAZING. I HIGHLY recommend them! (another East Bay Mom)


Our 2. 5 year old goes to Boulevard Little People’s Academy, off Grand Ave. in Oakland. We love it there! It has the advantages of both a daycare and a preschool, with kids of lots of different ages. They go on field trips, they have a great outdoor space, they do art projects almost every day, and she’s even beginning to learn how to write her letters! Deltrina, the director, has been doing this for 35 years and she’s amazing. Here’s their website: http://www.blvdacademy.com/ Love Boulevard!


Looking for a small preschool for 2-year-old

August 2011

I’m looking for a small preschool in the North Oakland/South Berkeley area for my two year old daughter. She is young to start a preschool, I know, but she’s eager for the whole classroom and peer experience and we think she’s ready for it, especially if it’s a small setting. We worry that with a day care, attention naturally is focused more on the infants, but most preschools I have looked at won’t take her until she is at least two and a half. Any recommendations would be appreciated. Dad looking for preschool


Check out Little Village in Albany. Both my kids started right around 2, and had great experiences there. I actually appreciate it more now, in retrospect, knowing how well my kids transitioned into their Berkeley public elementary school. Small, cost-friendly, mixed-ages pre-school with flexible, caring and experienced teachers. Doesn’t necessarily show well – it’s an older facility – but definitely pulls through on the things that count. Happy Little Village alum


Check the Model School . They have a toddler class. maguilo


I would recommend looking at Happy Together Preschool . My three-year old son is enrolled there and has classmates who have just turned two. The directors of the school are able to give focused attention to every single child and actually plan their curriculum according to the children’s interests. They helped us with an easy transition from home-care to school setting, including potty training support. Since starting, my son has learned to play cooperatively with his peers, recognize and express his feelings, draw shapes, sing, and appreciate science and nature. The best part is that my son genuinely enjoys going to school. It’s wonderful & I highly recommend it. Orinda mom.


Cozy, fun preschool for 2-year-old

April 2010

I’d like to find a warm, play-based preschool for my 2-year-old daughter in the fall. I live in Central Berkeley, and work in West Berkeley, and I’m hoping to find somewhere close by. But if you love a school that’s a little farther away, I’d be interested to hear about it, too. My daughter has been with her grandmother and a babysitter until now, so this would be her first transition to a larger group of kids. Thanks so much!


Please consider Skytown , a parent cooperative preschool in Kensington. Cozy and fun certainly describe this play-based cooperative preschool! I have been very pleased with the warm and supportive atmosphere and it was a wonderful transition for my son who had been home full time up to the time we started. Check out the website www.skytown.org and call to schedule a tour if interested. There are still summer and fall openings. Amy


Children’s Garden Montessori is in El Cerrito and based on my experience from 2001-2008 I recommend it highly. All three of my children went there.

When I first started looking it ended up being the only place I looked! My initial feel of the place just said, ”YES.” It is not ”state-of-the-art” and is totally NOT fancy. It is run out of the home of one of the kindest, gentlest people you could ever hope to cross paths with… Alaina Benner.

All of the kids are happy. When we were there the teachers were so loving and nurturing. Whenever someone needed to be held there were open arms ready to hold him or her. It is loosely based on Montessori principles. There is a great outside space for the kids to play and have lunch.. big bunny pen, great play structure, ride-on toys, sand for digging. Lots of fun ”works” for the kids to experiment with and learn from inside.

Do check it out… worth the drive. We initially were commuting from Point Richmond and then moved. For my third child we were commuting to Children’s Garden in El Cerrito from Rockridge! When my fourth is old enough, she will attend as well.

Alaina’s number is 510 232-3089. (oh, and I just checked… a few recent good recs on BPN!) Marjorie


Sunshine Play School Great school, a nice number of kids in the age range you are looking for (2-3 yo along with some older-they take up to 5), really attuned to the needs of the little ones- always have fun activities/themes for the month along with field trips. Rates and other info on website www.sunshineplayschool.org…It is about 6-7 miles from N. Berkeley-off the Arlington or if you take 80 E- it would be the Solano exit. It is really worth checking out! Good luck:) anon


We’ve been very happy with Heart’s Leap North , on Cedar Street between Oxford and Spruce, in Berkeley. Our son, now 3.5, started when this new campus opened in Fall 2008. The school is cozy – only two classrooms, each with 18-22 students, depending on the ages, with 3 teachers in each room. The days are very playful, fun, and exciting. The teachers are wonderful professionals, very warm, and highly skilled in encouraging the children’s interests and teaching important social skills, like how to enter into play with others, and how to speak kindly to each other. The children and teachers all refer to each other as ”friends”, and it really is true. Our shy son has made wonderful friends there. The school is open 8:30am-5:30pm, but there are a variety of options for pick-up times (12:30 for 2-year-olds only, 2:30pm, 4pm, or 5:30pm), an option for 2 emergency early drop-offs a month at an additional charge, and 4 days a week is also an option. The school provides healthy snacks, and parents provide lunches. Naptime is well managed – my son who refuses naps at home still naps at school almost every day. If you have other questions, feel free to contact me. There are just a couple of spots left, in the younger classroom. Good luck with your search. daria


Part-time two’s program in Oakland?

Nov 2009

I’m interested in putting my son into a part time preschool program in the fall for socialization, he will be two in July. My 4 year old daughter attends a preschool full time which starts at 2.9 mos. I am open to either a drop off or parent accompanied program, preferably in the mornings. Is there anything like this out there? We are located in Montclair/Oakland.


Check out Broadway Children’s School ”PACT” program. We did this with both our children and feel like it was one of the best things we did (both times!). The website is: broadwaychildrensschool.org heidi


Culturally diverse Part-time preschool in El Cerrito/Albany?

August 2009

We are looking for a culturally diverse pre school for our almost 2-year-old son. Most of the ones we have heard of don’t allow you to sign up for part time. Ideally it would be a place where he could go 3-4 hours a day a few days a week. Any ideas? D


You should check out Skytown Preschool . It’s in the region of the El Cerrito hills. They have a toddler (2’s) room and it is a fantastic school…my son went there and loved it! It is a coop, but you can buy out of whatever you don’t want to do… http://skytown.org/ Happy Skytown Mama


For a culturally diverse, loving and nurturing environment, I am happy to recommend Rising Sun Montessori on the El Cerrito/Albany border near Memorial Park. My son enjoyed his two years there very much, meeting friends from India, Brazil and Venezuela. His teachers, Carolina and Reina, also incorporated Spanish words and phrases into their daily routine. My son attended school three days per week for a full day, though many children came for shorter times – until 12:30 and some until 3:00pm. Rising Sun is a very happy place and the children really enjoy the very large yard with a log cabin playhouse, swingset, sandbox and veggie garden. Their number is 510-528-6041. Happy Rising Sun parent


Programs for 2-year-olds in Oakland area?

May 2003

My daughter is not even one but I expect I should get her on the wait list for some good two year old programs soon… I’ll need care 2 -3 full days per week. We live in Temescal so Rockridge, North Oakland, Montclair, Piedmont, South Berkeley are preferable. If you can wholeheartedly recommend a place please let us know! Thanks

Recommendations received:

  • Montclair Community Play Center
  • Toddler Family

Two-Year Old Homeschool Preschool – This Little Home of Mine

In past generations, small children learned (and learned a lot) through their play, daily interactions at home, etc. Schooling toddlers and preschoolers is a fairly new phenomenon, and I would go as far as to say that formal schooling for your toddlers and preschoolers is actually not a necessity. With that being said, please understand that when it comes to Two-Year Old Homeschool Preschool, you can not mess it up – I promise!

Homeschool Preschool is simply a way to describe you taking advantage of opportunities to guide your little learner as they discover the world around them. When I chat about homeschooling preschoolers, I’m talking about reading with them, playing with them, and involving them in those day-to-day life moments that have the power to teach.

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ENROLL HERE

When my oldest turned two, I decided to begin venturing into the world of Homeschool Preschool. I felt that we would both benefit from the structure and routine it would provide during our days together, and as a former classroom teacher, I must admit I was especially excited to plan learning activities for him.

I simply couldn’t help myself!

While I am a firm believer that children learn best through play as well as through interactions with others, I thought it would be fun to have just a few minutes each day dedicated to these learning activities – definitely something that can be practiced while simply playing and reading books aloud with your little one, but I decided to take it a step further – just for fun.

Are you wanting to do the same? If so, simply choose the areas where you would like to focus with your little one, and then gather resources that will assist you in meeting those goals. Please don’t drive yourself crazy overthinking the details. I assure you that there is no wrong way to do this. The only danger is trying to take on too much at once – overwhelming yourself and your child. My first piece of advice for two-year old homeschool preschool?

Keep it simple – Keep it fun.

I assure you it will make all the difference!

This post will provide you with tips and ideas that will make it possible for you to explore Two-Year Old Homeschool Preschool at home with your child, and my hope is that you and your little one will have a lot of fun learning together!

Two-Year Old Homeschool Preschool

What Do I Want My Two-Year Old to Learn?

I like to focus on one letter of the alphabet each week – starting with A and working our way through Z over a period of 26 weeks. Out of order works great, too if you prefer to do it that way! This letter-a-week approach serves as the framework for my lesson planning (I use that term loosely.), and books like this have been great resources. During this time, we also focus on learning to recognize and count numbers 1-10.

A Few Other Concepts We Explore During the Two-Year-Old Year:

  • Recognition of Colors & Basic Shapes
  • Animal Names/Animal Sounds
  • Nursery Rhymes
  • Fine Motor Skills

Your goals for your little one may differ, but this list will help you begin brainstorming!

How Do I Stay Organized?

I simply use my personal day planner to jot down two things:

  • #1 – Each Monday is marked with a note of the letter of the alphabet we will be focusing on that week.
  • #2 – Next to each week, I make a short list of the hands-on activities I want to do.

Check out my favorite planner: Simple & Inexpensive!

I typically plan out a month at a time – leaving room for any holidays, out-of-town trips, etc. that would take us away from our usual routine. There is no need to be strict and rigid with your schedule. One of the most beautiful things about homeschooling is the flexibility it provides. Don’t be afraid to embrace that.

Now, for my #1 homeschool organization tip: On Sunday night, I lay out any items/supplies I want to use in the coming week. Once a busy week begins, everything I need is right there at my fingertips…which ensures the activities will actually happen as I hope.

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What Do My Lesson Plans Look Like?

For example:

Week #1: Letter

A

  • Play with alphabet stickers.
  • Using an A-shaped cookie cutter, “cut” A‘s out of play dough.
  • Cut large, colorful letter A‘s out of a magazine, and allow your little one to glue them to a piece of construction paper.
  • Cut up an apple. Count the pieces. Eat the apple.

With these activities in mind, my actual calendar notes might look something like this:

  • Alphabet Stickers
  • A Cookie Cutter
  • Glue A‘s
  • Apple

Week #2: Letter B

  • Play with alphabet magnets.
  • Color or paint a printout of the letter B.
  • Using a letter alphabet stamp [and washable ink pad], cover a piece of construction paper with letter B‘s.
  • Cut up an banana. Count the pieces. Eat the banana.

With these activities in mind, my actual calendar notes might look something like this:

  • Alphabet Magnets
  • Paint Letter B
  • B Stamp
  • Banana

Interested in having access to ALL of my lesson plans A through Z? I’ve released them HERE!

Yes, I’ve done all the work for you – providing you with a multi-sensory approach to teaching more than JUST the alphabet: Library Lists, Snack Ideas, STEM Activities, Sensory Explorations, Art Experiences, Outdoor Play, and more!

As you can see, I keep it very simple! I only list ideas that I know can realistically be carried out in our day-to-day, and I keep my list of ideas short and sweet – unless I need to make additional notes to trigger my memory regarding the details of a specific activity.

Now I Eat My ABCs Available Here

Where Do I Find My Ideas?

I like to brainstorm ahead of time about what kinds of activities my child will enjoy doing. Does your child love board books? Puzzles? Do you own any educational toys/games that they especially enjoy? Is your little one artistic? Musical? Consider these kinds of questions and then tailor your activities to their interests. This guarantees they will enjoy learning with you which is most definitely the number one goal!

If you find an activity isn’t working well (and there can be a variety of different reasons why this might be the case), don’t stress. Simply stop what you’re doing and redirect. No worries! Discover what your little one loves and let that be your guide! Don’t over think it. Don’t compare to others. Allow their play to guide you, and you will be amazed what your preschooler will learn!

If you’re having trouble coming up with ideas for your little one, I have one word for you: Pinterest! Hey, even if your creative juices ARE flowing, I would still suggest checking out Pinterest. Search “Letter of the Week Activities”, and you will be all set with fun ideas to last you from A to Z...and then some! Free letter/number printables, simple alphabet-related craft ideas (I’m all about simple!), tasty snack suggestions for each letter of the alphabet, and more – It’s all there for you! In fact, you will discover more ideas than you could ever possibly do, so just pick a few that sound especially fun [and do-able], and you will be all set. In the early days, that is what I did – putting all of my favorite activities together in this resource that I make available here at This Little Home of Mine:

Where Do I Find My Resources:

Most of my educational supplies/toys have come from yard sales, thrift stores, and consignment sales! You do not have to spend a lot of money to provide great resources for your children. Scour the playroom, the kitchen, the art cabinet…everywhere! You probably already have great resources all around you!

Alphatales Big Book Available Here

Alphatales Book Bundle Available Here

A Few Final Thoughts:

Whether we realize it or not, lots of learning is happening during typical childhood activities: rigorous outside play, building with blocks, assisting with household chores, coloring/painting at an easel, cutting/pasting with paper and glue, designing with play dough.

Especially at this age, it is important to remember that so much learning is going on during times of independent play, interaction with others, etc.

My kids love when I read aloud with them! They are big fans of play dates at the park and trips to the library for story time/music time. They enjoy going to the art center and doing little projects in the garage with their dad. They love taking “nature walks” and playing outside with water, bubbles, sand, and chalk. These daily experiences are where so much learning is taking place.

Want access to a printable that you can use to brainstorm fun activities for your little ones?

Interested in more information about homeschooling your preschooler? I offer the following posts:

  • Two-Year-Old Homeschool Preschool
  • Three-Year-Old Homeschool Pre-school
  • Four-Year-Old Homeschool Pre-school

as well as a free Homeschool Preschool e-course designed to encourage you as you get started!

Want to read more about our family’s Lifestyle of Homeschooling? Our daily schedule? A look at our week? I would be honored to share with you how we have adopted a lifestyle of living and learning together and how you can do the same with your own family:

A Complete Guide for Home & School

May 09 2021

Positive Action Staff

Curriculum Articles & Resources

Parents, teachers, and administrators can get overwhelmed choosing the best preschool program. They want to give children a solid foundation before kindergarten without stripping away their early childhood.

However, the best preschool curriculum isn’t one-size-fits-all; it’s the most suited for your kids. This article will serve as a guide to options for a preschool and pre-K curriculum for home or school.

Top 13 Preschool Curriculum Programs

1. Positive Action Pre-K Kits

Positive Action is a great preschool curriculum for school environments and can be adapted for homeschooling. It reads like a story with two recurring characters, the hand puppet hedgehogs Mimi and Squeak.

As the name implies, Positive Action solidifies the notion that positive actions are fulfilling and fun, all in Unit 1. They do that by incorporating music, cheers, and “clap-and-say” poems that instill these values and promote their application.

Unit 2 directs the practice of self-love to the self. Kids will learn how to apply positive actions for the benefit of their bodies and brains.

Moving on to Unit 3, it teaches kids to value their energy, time, feelings, things, and other resources, which promotes well-being. And in Unit 4, kids get to learn how to communicate and socialize with other people. Furthermore, Unit 5 strengthens honesty as a value. Finally, Unit 6 guides learners to set goals and achieve them.

For a $400 investment, you’re getting an instruction manual with lesson plans and teaching tips, 130 scripted lessons (5-10 mins), an app for Pre-Kindergarten, 24 visual aids, 8 activity sheets, 13 full-color posters, 30 certifications of completion, and much more products.

2. Before Five in a Row

This homeschool preschool curriculum is well-suited for children between the ages of 2 and 4. It’s divided into books, units, and readiness activities. And you’ll find it full of creative ideas that’ll make learning a never-ending adventure. The manual’s back gives you art, song, fingerplay, and other fun ideas.

If your desired approach towards teaching is by exposing your little ones to beautiful literature and viewing daily activities as learning opportunities, this is for you. You can discuss the stories, books, and characters with your kids and even play out scenes.

With activities, the preschool curriculum is a good option if you don’t like over-planning or having an excess of prescribed activities.

The Preschool Planning Page is to thank for that because it has preschool activity ideas for every day of the week with a list of the needed materials. You can merely get your kids and read and play with them. This keeps it all simple and entertaining.

3. Horizons

Brought to you by Alpha Omega Publications, this homeschooling preschool curriculum has a more workbook style and academic approach, covering social studies, math, science, phonics, PE, outdoor activities, arts and crafts, creative cooking, field trips, and language arts.

It’s suitable if you want a preschool program with plenty of worksheets, subject-specific exercises, and some hands-on activities.

The Horizons Preschool Curriculum Kit provides you with 40 weeks of lessons and activities. It’s comprised of 180 lessons, spread over 2 student books, 2 teacher’s guides, a resource packet, and a sing-along music CD. Families will find the teaching tips in the teacher’s guide especially helpful, thanks to the instructions of its lesson plans for teaching lessons.

Not to mention, the package also includes basic flashcards, and you can purchase a separate multimedia package for a more interactive learning environment.

4. Oak Meadow

Oak Meadow is the preschool curriculum for homeschooling, which prioritizes imagination and creativity. That entails playing, singing, walks, activities, fingerplay, sand and water play, nature walks, and story-telling. Furthermore, it lays the foundations of learning, and those principles persist with your children throughout their schooling years.

You can invest $159 in the preschool curriculum, and you’ll receive The Heart of Learning, Learning Processes, Preschool Paint Kit, Toddlers Sing CD, and Beeswax crayons (block). This preschool curriculum is eligible for homeschooling, distance learning with teacher support, and academic credit.

In addition, Oak Meadow has been in the field of providing families with learning materials since 1975. Some teachers and parents agreed that the passion children had in learning environments was fading, and they resolved to do something about it, thus creating Oak Meadow. And it has since become a NEASC-accredited school.

5. Time4Learning

This online homeschooling preschool curriculum is targeted towards pre-readers and pre-K children. The award-winning Time4Learning promotes an interactive and engaging learning environment using straightforward verbal directions and appealing graphics.

In addition, it delves into various themes, like shapes, colors, foods, and tools. They’re taught using songs and stories and tied with worksheets.

Also, the preschool curriculum integrates diverse skill development activities, including pre-reading literacy, math foundation, science, art, music, and creative expression. The math and language arts topics are in agreement with state standards. And art, science, and social studies are bonus topics.

Also, this Pre-K program approaches learning with the understanding that play and education should be merged naturally, making learning fun and stimulating. When you choose Time4Learning, you get 1000+ animated lessons, graded activities, and printable worksheets.

6. Winter Promise

Winter Promise is a Charlotte Mason preschool curriculum. Like Before Five in a Row and perhaps, even more, it emphasizes the role that literature plays in influencing young children. In other words, it’s a literature-based curriculum for homeschooled preschoolers.

This preschool program could be an excellent match for parents who want to create a learning environment to learn along with their children rather than instruct them. It also gives you plenty of face-to-face interactions with your children, as it requires no prep on your part and is reliant on hands-on learning.

The program manages to cover the needed topics with no busy work. With the program, you’ll find a vibrant activity set, which includes activity kits, ideas, and books. And you’ll find its weekly planner and other resources useful.

Last but not least, Winter Promise has numerous curricula for a specific grade, theme, language arts, note booking and timeline, chess, and science.

7. The Peaceful Press Preschool

The Peaceful Press Preschool is yet another Charlotte-Mason-based preschool curriculum for homeschoolers.

It’s categorized as a living education curriculum. In other words, it prioritizes reading, creativity, engaging with nature, and experiencing the world. It’s also project and literature-based. The preschool curriculum is scheduled for 26 weeks.

It contains a parent guide to daily activities, numbers, craft patterns, and a printable pack featuring the alphabet. With play-based activities, your child can learn his numbers, sounds, and letters. And it stands out with its weekly themed recipes for each lesson, which can be fun.

If you’re looking to spend time with your little children, The Peaceful Pres Preschool provides products that aren’t too complicated to use and gives your family the quality time you want. The program will keep your children occupied 4 days a week, Fridays being used for optional field trips and corresponding.

8. Mother Goose Time

A quality, research-based, creative curriculum for preschoolers is Mother Goose Time. Its teachings use songs, art, logic, and hands-on learning. And to top it off, it’s fit to be used by teachers in child-care centers and parents at home. Mother Goose Time is developmentally appropriate for young children that are 2.5 to 5 years old.

The Preschool Kit is very handy with pretty much everything you’ll need to do the projects and activities. The supplies are separated into daily packets.

To illustrate, every lesson is packaged independently, and you can get students and children to work on the crafts, worksheets, activities, and other resources. So, the teacher or family finds it hassle-free and time-saving with zero prep time.

Moreover, there’s a monthly fun theme with premium colorful materials and a CD filled with happy professional music.

9. FunShine Express

FunShine Express is a preschool curriculum aligned to early learning standards, designed to be used in the classroom.

When subscribing to the monthly digital plan, teachers receive ready-for-use lesson plans. That includes resources for teachers, material for circle time, physical health, art, and other life skills. And learners can play rearrange games with click-and-drag motions.

Most importantly, this preschool program allows teachers to customize the curriculum to fit their students by editing or writing activities and searching thousands of additional activities. Of course, you can choose not to do some activities to provide the kids with more relaxed learning experiences.

Furthermore, there’s a built-in assessment feature. A teacher can record observations during activities, assign performance levels, upload videos and photos, and even print or merely view the individual assessment records for a student. And the best part is that this plan is only $25 per month for each classroom.

10. Little Learning Box Program

Little Learning Box is a preschool curriculum for classroom use curated for young children, 2 to 4-year-olds specifically. Children will find the activities interesting, and teachers will find them easy-to-use.

This is a 3-day program, and the box has 12 days of supplies, along with an additional “special” day, too; therefore, the box should last you a month.

This curriculum includes letter, shape, and number practice sheets, math board with counters, manipulative math cards, “fun”damental cards for numbers, letters, shapes, colors, and patterns, 1 theme mini-book, letter and number cutouts, shape puzzle or collage, shape mini-book, and other products.

Additionally, teachers can purchase an additional Teacher Pack, which comes with a curriculum guide, teacher weekly/theme bags, and a set of monthly displays.

And as is the custom, each month has a theme, such as family, senses, or cooking. And each day is planned with projects, books as in the book list, crafts, and activities so that young children improve their skills.

11. A Year of Playing Skillfully

A Year of Playing Skillfully is a wonder-based preschool curriculum for childhood development in printed book or eBook form. Also, it can be used in a classroom, daycare center, or at home.

It’s suitable for children between the ages of 3 and 7. That means adults can group kindergarten with early elementary children.

This curriculum provides children with invaluable learning opportunities to develop multiple skills, social motor, emotional, or rational skills. That’s achieved through an exploration of character traits and themes, which fit their age groups.

As a research-based learning preschool curriculum, A Year of Playing Skilfully helps children develop skills in several fields, like language and literacy, art and rhymes, science and sensory, math and manipulatives, outdoor play, gross motor, and social, emotional, and home life.

12. Opening the World of Learning

In short, OWL, this preschool curriculum was published by DLM Early Childhood Express to be used in the classroom. It’s a comprehensive curriculum for preschoolers.

It makes use of research-based success predictors to offer teachers an accurate assessment. And it implements customized, focused, and playful instruction for the benefit of children.

OWL’s foundation is that immersing children in a rich learning environment during their early childhood is necessary, but it isn’t nearly enough. The framework of these interactions must be goal-directed and intentional.

To explain, every section of the day could become a learning experience. Once teachers get to know their preschoolers and the curriculum content, book list, and instructional strategies, they’ll be able to respond to different situations, making learning fun and beneficial. Also, the literature studied is relevant to the vocabulary and concepts.

Hence, preschoolers develop their oral language, vocabulary instruction, and critical thinking skills. Undoubtedly, the curriculum covers math, science, language arts, social studies, drawing and coloring, and emotional as well as physical development.

13. Let’s Begin With the Letter People

This is yet another research-based preschool curriculum for classroom or home use, and it’s published by Abrams Learning Trend. The curriculum meets the Florida Early Learning and Development Standards for children who are 3-4 years old.

The pre-K curriculum contains 26 thematic units, which help preschoolers develop their language and early literacy skills. It guides preschoolers in learning the alphabet using other children’s names. It directs particular attention and interest towards phonology, as in wordplay, rhyming, alliteration, and segmentation.

In short, this curriculum creates fun learning experiences with appealing rhymes and attractive illustrations. And when you get the Let’s Begin with the Letter People Preschool package, books for teachers’ resources and classroom books, among other curriculum materials, are provided with the kit.

What Is Taught in Preschool – A Complete Guide

Math

In preschool and kindergarten, math is a rather common subject to teach. Teachers and other adults can harness the math skills of a child by teaching them what numbers are.

They also teach them to count, discern different shapes and patterns, measure, identify sizes (small, medium, and large), compare quantities using less, more, and the same, compare and categorize objects, match objects, symbols, shapes, and patterns, work with a calendar, and tell the time (whether it’s day or night).

As for how teachers and caregivers do that, the answer is games; we’re talking puzzles, blocks, building toys, and all sorts of games.

For instance, they may count the steps as they mount them. Moreover, teachers might make a contest where preschoolers need to sort various colors and shapes as fast as they can. Of course, there’s a popular “I Spy” game, and you can play it with shapes and colors too.

Science

Preschoolers learn about science using hands-on experience, meaning that not only do they learn about topics from books but also from demonstrations with objects, outdoor exploration using their senses, interaction with nature, and interactive games (games with clay, water tables, and sound boxes).

The same lesson could be about color, sound, light, water, weather, plants, or animals.

Science activities are numerous. Some are done outside of the classroom, like drawing, growing plants, capturing photos of plants, animals, insects, and nature altogether, or observational writing about them.

But there are also classroom activities, such as exploring scientific tools (prisms, magnets, and magnifying glasses), measuring, mixing ingredients, and cooking. Teachers can discuss what happens when something becomes cold or hot with pre-K students. Also, teachers can inform preschoolers about the bodies of their pets, their habitats, survival, and growth.

Reading

Concerning reading, a child should learn to discern letters, identify sounds, learn new words, and be exposed to books and magazines. This should promote their reading skills. Moreover, teachers should read a lot to preschoolers in kindergarten.

Teachers shouldn’t only focus on developing the literacy skills of a preschooler during “reading time” but also do storytime sessions and get preschoolers to read aloud poems and rhymes in other subjects.

Preschools implement storytimes of either childhood stories or made-up ones. Also, pre-K teachers use character puppets to play out scenarios with them.

Moreover, you can shape cookie dough into letters; perhaps spell out the name of the child or another word with it. Parents can also take turns with their preschoolers to say rhyming words, either real or made up. And it helps to have a classroom with signs and labeled objects so that a preschooler can see the correlation between both.

Visual and Performing Arts

Arts are crucial to any curriculum in preschool. That includes visual arts (drawing, painting, sculpture, weaving, and collage) and performing arts (dancing and singing). And if you’re doubtful of the necessity of creative arts in preschools, drawing and coloring improve the fine motor skills of a child.

To enhance their motor skills, children learn to use a variety of art supplies in preschool, including crayons, clay, colored pencils, markers, watercolor paint, oil pastels, and art chalk. Not to mention, they get to experiment with mixing color.

As for performing arts, a child gets to sing traditional rhymes and, of course, ones related to the curriculum. They can join other preschoolers in movement dances and even use scarves, bean bags, and rhythm sticks to learn rhythms. And a preschooler could learn to play an instrument at school. They can take part in dramatic play and dramatizing famous stories.

Physical Education

The US Department of Health and Human Services and the National Association for Sport and Physical Education strongly urge preschools to implement physical education.

By doing so, a child will build healthy habits and be likely to maintain them through adulthood. Also, the growth of movement skills is easier in a preschooler than older age groups. It improves their motor skills and paves the way for them to learn more complex movements later in life.

It’s recommended that a child in preschool or kindergarten gets at least 60 minutes of free play daily, either playing pretend at home or moving in the playground, and no less than 60 minutes of cumulative structured play, such as swimming, biking, or playing catch. And the child should be given constructive feedback and encouragement to improve his/her motor skills.

FAQs

Which Curriculum Is Best For Preschool Children?

Positive Action is arguably the best curriculum for preschoolers. For one, it can be used in schools and homes. It instills invaluable lessons in young children, including self-care skills, valuing time, energy, feelings, socializing with others, truthfulness, and setting goals.

What Should a Preschool Curriculum Include?

Several aspects play into a preschool curriculum assessment. It must incorporate drawing, painting, coloring, colors, cutting, gluing, cooperation, hygiene, and calendars.

What Is a Curriculum for Early Childhood?

In simple terms, it’s the sum of the material that you’re planning to teach and your children or students are supposed to learn. It’s decided according to the targeted age group and the child development in that period.

Final Words

In conclusion, a preschool curriculum that gets the best of both worlds is the Positive Action program. Where most curricula are one or the other, it’s excellent for school and can be adjusted for homeschooling purposes.

Most importantly, it focuses heavily on the encouragement of positive behavior towards the self and others in a cheer-inducing environment.

Preschool Programs / Preschool Offerings Overview


  • Preschool Offerings Overview

  • Advantage Preschool (formerly Amanecer)

  • Building Blocks Preschool

  • Kindergarten Prep Preschool

  • TOYBOX Preschool

  • Traditional Kindergarten Prep Preschool
  • At Gilbert Public Schools we offer a range of preschool programs where young children learn social skills in real time, in a supportive environment, surrounded by qualified staff. At GPS we believe that high-quality preschool programs nurture warm relationships among children, teachers, and parents.

    Explore the variety of GPS Preschool Programs which all offer flexibility, choice, affordability, and fun for your child!

    Registration for the 2022-2023 school year is now available!

     

  • Building Blocks Preschool Program is designed to help prepare young children for Kindergarten by promoting confidence within an elementary school environment.

     

    Explore Program Registration

  • Kindergarten Prep is a 20 student program taught by a certified teacher with a classroom assistant, designed to give your child a jump start on becoming a prepared and eager Gilbert Public Schools student ready for the rigors of Kindergarten! Kindergarten Prep curriculum focuses on literacy and academic content in an intentionally developed preschool environment. It is aligned with the Arizona Department of Education Early Learning Standards, and is supplemented with: Fundations, Handwriting Without Tears, We Thinkers! Social-Emotional curriculum, STEM and Unplugged Coding activities.

     

    Explore Program Registration

  • TOYBOX Early Learning Center is a program established as a laboratory setting on high school campuses incorporating a full teaching curriculum. All lessons are objective driven, guided play, and designed using the Arizona Early Learning Standard.

     

    Explore Program Registration

  • Advantage Preschool (formerly Amanecer) is a guided play program aligned with the Arizona Department of Education Early Learning Standards with a focus on critical thinking skills and social-emotional development.

     

    Explore Program Registration

Expand All

  • If you are concerned with your child’s development and live in the Gilbert Public School boundaries, we offer free screenings, by appointment only. 

    Gilbert Public Schools provides early intervention/special education services to 3 to 5-year-old children with qualifying developmental delays in the following areas: motor, social, speech/language, cognitive or adaptive behavior development. Eligibility is determined through formal assessment procedures.

    Many articulation errors could be developmentally appropriate for preschoolers.  Click here to see which sounds are expected to be mastered by the end of each year of age.

    Special Education Preschool Eligibility Process

    • The eligibility process is initiated online. If your child has been evaluated by another school district, and has a current or expired IEP/MET, please STOP this process and contact [email protected] to obtain transfer student information.
    • If screening results indicate the need for an evaluation, the district will conduct the evaluation (screening location map). Weekly Child Find screenings are held by appointment only.
    • If the student is determined eligible under the Arizona Department of Education guidelines, an IEP is developed and the student will be offered district preschool IEP services.
    • To begin the referral process you will need to: 
      • 1. The online district pre-enrollment process must be completed. Please Note: Enter the child during the online enrollment as an “enrolling student” and “GPS Holding” as the campus. New Family Registration | Existing GPS Family Registration  (Infinite Campus) For help with an existing Infinite Campus account click here
      • 2. Download and complete a screening application, home language survey and childcare questionnaire which are fillable forms (please download, complete form, save as child’s name)
      • 3. Proceed to upload the completed screening application, childcare questionnaire along with your child’s original birth certificate, a current gas/water/electric bill in parent’s name, a current picture of your child to our online screening submission form. Please Note: If there are any court orders or custody papers pertaining to this child, upload the documents on the screening submission form so they may be included in the file.

     ***All days, times and location are subject to change. ***

    If you live within the Gilbert Public School district boundaries and have additional questions, please contact the Preschool Office at 480-497-3471.

    This screening process is initiated through the Special Education district preschool office located at:

    Gilbert Public Schools District
    Special Education Preschool Office

    Phone:480-497-3471
    Hours: Mon-Thur 8 am- 4 pm, Fri 8 am-2 pm
    Closed Fridays During Summer

  • Arizona State Required Immunizations for Child Care & Preschools (pdf)

  • The Gilbert Public Schools District requires online registration for each preschool student each year in addition to the preschool registration payment as an annual update. This assures that the information in the district system stays up-to-date for emergency contacts. The district online registration for your preschooler must be completed for the school year they are attending.

    If you have not already completed this enrollment, please go to www.gilbertschools.net/enroll and enter your preschooler as an enrolling student (do not list them as a non-school age sibling). Select GPS Holding as your campus when prompted. Please note: If you have other children enrolled in GPS you may complete the district registration through your parent portal.  Login to your Infinite Campus parent portal, choose More from the list on the left, then choose Online Registration. You may then add your preschooler as an enrolling student there.

    You will then go to the campus to finalize registration. You must provide the child’s original birth certificate, proof of residency (gas, water or electric bill in parents name), immunizations and your ID prior to your child attending class.  Please do this as soon as possible after registration, do not wait for a call from the campus.

  • Contact Gilbert Public Schools Community Education Office

    480-892-9089 x0
    Email: communityedbusinessdept@gilbertschools. net
    Office Hours: Monday–Thursday 8:00 am–4:30 pm & Friday 8:00 am–12:00 pm (closed Fridays in June/July)

    Note: Gilbert Public Schools Community Education Department has computer terminals available to use at our office at 6839 East Guadalupe Road in Mesa, Arizona, for preschool enrollment for families without online access. 

     






School Address Building Blocks K-Prep Amanecer TOYBOX
Ashland Ranch Elementary 1945 S. Ashland Ranch, Gilbert, AZ 4 X X
Augusta Ranch Elementary 9430 E. Neville Ave, Mesa, AZ

X
Boulder Creek Elementary 8045 E. Portobello, Mesa, AZ

X
Burk Elementary 545 N. Burk Street, Gilbert, AZ

X
Campo Verde High 3870 S. Quartz St., Gilbert, AZ

X
Canyon Rim Elementary 3045 S. Canyon Rim, Mesa, AZ 4 X X
Carol Rae Elementary 3777 E. Houston Avenue, Gilbert, AZ 3 & 4

X
Desert Ridge High 10045 E. Madero Ave., Mesa, AZ

X
Finley Farms Elementary 375 South Columbus Drive, Gilbert, AZ 3 & 4


Gilbert Elementary 175 W. Elliot Rd. , Gilbert, AZ 3 & 4, Spanish Immersion

X
Gilbert High 1101 E. Elliot Rd., Gilbert, AZ

X
Greenfield Elementary 2550 E. Elliot Rd., Gilbert, AZ

X
Harris Elementary 1820 S. Harris Dr., Mesa, AZ

X
Highland High 4301 E. Guadalupe Rd., Gilbert, AZ

X
Highland Park Elementary 230 N. Cole Dr., Gilbert, AZ

X X
Islands Elementary 245 McQueen Road, Gilbert, AZ 4


Meridian Elementary 3900 S. Mountain Rd., Mesa, AZ 3 & 4

X
Mesquite Elementary 1000 E. Mesquite Rd., Gilbert, AZ 3 & 4

X
Mesquite High 500 S. McQueen Rd., Gilbert, AZ


Neely Traditional Academy 500 E. Houston Ave., Gilbert, AZ

X


Oak Tree Elementary 505 W. Houston Ave., Gilbert, AZ

X
Patterson Elementary 1211 E. Guadalupe Rd., Gilbert, AZ

X
Pioneer Elementary 1535 N. Greenfield Rd. , Gilbert, AZ

X
Playa del Rey Elementary 550 N. Horne St., Gilbert, AZ 3 & 4

X
Quartz Hill Elementary 3680 S. Quartz Street, Gilbert, AZ

X
Settler’s Point Elementary 423 E. Settlers Point Dr., Gilbert, AZ

X
Sonoma Ranch Elementary 601 N. Key Biscayne Drive, Gilbert, AZ 3 & 4

X
Spectrum Elementary 2846 S. Spectrum Way, Gilbert, AZ 3 & 4

X
Superstition Springs Elementary 7125 E. Monterey Avenue, Mesa, AZ 3 & 4 X X
Towne Meadows Elementary 1101 N. Recker Rd., Gilbert, AZ

X
Val Vista Lakes Elementary 1030 N. Blue Grotto Dr., Gilbert, AZ

X X

Last Modified on September 26, 2022

Growing Brilliant Online Preschool

Call Us: 1 (833) 255-5788

creating Brilliant Futures

Activity-Based Learning Program For Children

Ages 2-6

Educational classes designed to give children an academic and social advantage. Covering math, reading, art, social studies, STEM, and more! Live, hands-on, 45-minute classes.

How Growing Brilliant Online Preschool Works

Attend Live, Teacher-Led Zoom Preschool Classes.

Your child will attend classes with other students using a secure Zoom link. 45-minute classes are led by a qualified Growing Brilliant teacher. Our online curriculum was developed to mirror our award-winning in-person programs. We offer 1, 2, 3, and 5 day options starting at just $19 per week.

Get Our Curriculum Box Delivered to Your Door.

Receive curriculum boxes filled with the supplies needed to participate in class activities. New boxes ship to replenish supplies on a recurring schedule, depending on your enrolled program at no additional cost. Children will have so much fun learning through hands-on activities!

Give Online Preschool a Try, Schedule Your Free Trial Class Today.

We know online preschool might be new to you, so we always offer a FREE trial class! There is no obligation to enroll after your trial class. However, we are confident your family will fall in love with our program!

Try a Class Free!

Hands-On Learning

We believe that children learn best through hands-on activities and quality class supplies. Our unique online program keeps students engaged with creative activities, interactive stories, and world-class education. This makes our lessons fun, fresh, and diverse. Your child will have so much fun; they will have no idea they are learning!

Brilliant Reasons to Enroll

Live, Hands-on & Interactive Online Preschool Classes

Our curriculum has been carefully designed by our team of experienced educators, including our founder, Dr. Lisa Hansen (Ed.D.). Growing Brilliant classes will educate your child intellectually, socially, and emotionally through hands-on activities.

Curriculum Box Shipped to You

We make it easy for families to participate in our program! The last thing you want to be doing before class is scrambling to find materials. This is why we ship you a box with everything needed to participate in our hands-on classes.

Designed to Educate Through Fun Activities

Your child will learn colors, numbers, letters, art skills, math, science, early literacy and so much more. There is only one program in the world designed to educate your child like Growing Brilliant does!

Socialization & Character Building

Your child will make friends and look forward to seeing their teacher and classmates each day. They will develop crucial social skills and gain confidence as they share their work with others.

Teacher-led & Small Class Sizes

Our classes are taught live, in small groups, by qualified and AMAZING preschool teachers to encourage more interaction and optimal learning. Classes are taught with enthusiasm, making learning fun!

We are Flexible

We offer convenient 1, 2, 3, and 5 day-a-week class schedules. We bring our program to you, so you don’t have to drive or adjust your current childcare arrangements. You can also pause your classes or withdraw at any time.

Online Preschool Kid Tested & Parent Approved

Parents love our program because it’s affordable, and educationally comprehensive. Children love our program because they do arts & crafts, take magical journeys through interactive books, socialize with friends, and have fun learning!

Preschool Education That Comes To You

Whether you are an on-the-go family, work-from home-family, or home school family, our online preschool program allows your child to learn conveniently from the comfort of your home.

Learn Creatively & Have Fun

Our classes incorporate a variety of mediums, including music & movement, interactive books & stories, sculpting with clay, art, and much more! This variety keeps classes fun and educational.

Online Preschool Programs We Offer

Our programs are designed around developmental milestones based on age. Each program offers additional learning milestones as your child progresses through Growing Brilliant. You will experience a well-rounded and brilliantly fun experience for your child.

45-Minute Classes

1, 2, 3, or 5-day weekly class schedules

Choose a class time between 6:30 am and 4 pm PST

Classes start at just $19 per week

A one-time $35 registration fee covers the cost of materials for the lifetime of enrollment

Early Explorers

Online Preschool For Ages 2-3 Years Old

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Little Learners

Online Preschool For Ages 3-4 Years Old

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Kindergarten Readiness

Online Preschool For Ages 4-5 Years Old

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Kindergarten Club

Online Classes For Ages 5-6 Years Old

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Enrichment Classes

Ages 3-6 Years Old

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Try a Class Free!

60+ Subjects Covered

art

STEM

dramatic play

music & movement

gross motor

circle time

sensory

science

counting

literacy

social studies

animal science

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Experienced & Loving Teachers

Amazing, loving, and experienced teachers are the foundation of our online preschool programs. We offer qualified preschool teachers that have a passion for teaching. They have the perfect mix of experience, knowledge of child development, and loving, nurturing attitudes. Thousands of teachers apply to work at our schools, but only a small percentage are chosen. We have the best and brightest teachers on our team. You and your child deserve nothing less!

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What Families are Saying:

Really amazing professional and cooperating staff and teachers. (Ms. Jennifer was the best:) but overall all teachers are amazing. Great at home program for young children they will learn something everyday my daughter learned so much here!

– Nikki S Mahajan

An engaging experience for your little to interact with a teacher and other children in the comfort of your own home!

– Hilary

My daughter has been doing this program for a week and she loves her teacher and the subject that she studies. I figured it would be difficult for an almost 3 year old to choose to listen and pay attention..but she is loving it and sharing with others what she has learned.

– Emily K

My child loves the classes offered and has made some really cute artwork. She’s also learning everytime and looks forward to seeing her classmates and teachers online! Growing Brilliant is a blessing in this new digital world!

– Kathryn Pena

I love that he is in a class with kids from all over the country. What a neat way to meet people from all over and learn about different states and cities while we are at it. Plus the live interaction is perfect for a 3 year old who likes to sing along and talk to the teacher.

– Jennifer R

Awesome! Teachers are engaging my 4 year old virtually, which often hard to do. They have amazing teachers. And the mail-in package of school crafts and supplies are a bonus!

– Sheila A

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Our revolutionary online preschool experience is hands-on and interactive!

Learn from anywhere in the country. Children will make art, sculpt, read interactive books, socialize and so much more. Students can obtain a traditional preschool education through our online preschool program at a fraction of the cost. Classes are taught live, through video chat, by qualified and AMAZING preschool teachers. Additionally, we will send you a recurring delivery of a curriculum box with the supplies needed to complete the live online preschool classes. Every class is educationally based, with a variety of fun, engaging, hands-on activities! Our curriculum is designed to prepare children for Kindergarten and beyond through over 60 topics and developmental areas.

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Education – MADOU “Child Development Center – Kindergarten No. 2”