Appletree Preschool Program Overview
The preschool day at the Appletree School begins at 9am with circle time activities such as the Pledge of Allegiance, calendar discussions, weather observations, stories, show and tell, or other thematic topics. Our preschool curriculum revolves around specific monthly themes that the children may be experiencing outside of school, to widen their perspective of the world. By focusing on each child as an individual, our teachers give each child time to master skills at their own pace. With small class sizes in each age group classroom, we can tailor learning to each student’s strengths and target areas for personal growth.
With cozy classrooms and ample outdoor adventure space, our campus offers each child opportunities to explore and experience learning with all five senses. Appletree provides a language-rich environment for all students with older students in preschool and the Academy sharing in the joy of learning through specially planned events and informal interactions.
Appletree takes a unique approach for preschool fours, based on the Dutch model. Students rotate among classrooms to work with different fours team teachers, each teaching in their field of expertise to all four-year-old program students. This core instruction led by teachers trained and experienced in their specializations helps preschool fours, known as Birds, prepare for a strong start in kindergarten and beyond.
All students in the twos, threes and fours receive snacks and daily lunch which is included with included with their tuition. Students eat lunch in their classroom.
Appletree emphasizes outdoor time and students love playing outside all through the seasons. Students attending for the full day will participate in outdoor time three times daily. Parents are encouraged to send their students to school in comfortable clothing and sneakers, or other proper footwear, for the day’s weather forecast. Appletree students will play outside in light rain and snow gear is needed for lucky days when we find snowflakes falling. Appletree will adjust recess plans in case of extreme cold or heat.
The Two-Year-Old Program-Chipmunks
Chipmunks, our two-year-old program promotes your child’s physical, social and cognitive development through an array of fun learning activities. From age two to three, play and discovery help each child reach new developmental milestones. Our teachers establish a strong bond with each student, get to know their preferences and evolving abilities. Chipmunk classes follow the child’s needs to support diapering and potty-training throughout the day, particularly with transitions. In the Chipmunks class, our students receive potty-training help as we celebrate their success along the way.
Each afternoon, you will receive a report about your child’s day.
Specialty classes enjoyed in this age group include:
- Music delights students in two weekly classes. Students sing, dance and laugh while learning traditional songs and new favorites. They will make music with bells, rhythm sticks, and shakers.
- Spanish, taught once a week, introduces students to the Spanish language, with books, songs and activities for students.
- A Physical Education/Movement class for twos is “short and sweet” as they are, to support their growing attention span and enhance their gross motor skill development at this stage.
Chipmunk Sample Schedule
7:00 a.m. – 9:00 a.m.
Preschool teacher greets and welcomes children
Play with toys & classroom exploration
Outdoor recess
9:15 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.
Morning snack
Circle time
Themed play and lessons
Learning centers
Specialty Classes
11:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Lunch
12:30 p.m. – 2:30 p.m.
Nap/rest
2:30 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.
Clean up
Afternoon play
Outdoor Recess
Pick up
Schedule Options
While all twos, threes and fours classrooms are five-day programs you may choose from full service or academic day to meet your family’s needs:
7:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. Full-Service Hours
9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. Academic Day Hours
