Before heading off to preschool

Is going to school better then home schooling?  Each family decides what best depending on their family situation and their child.  However, early exposure to a quality preschool program can give a child not only academic skills, but also  how to take turns, working independently, and problem solving. Our classroom covers not only developmental areas such as literacy, science, math and arts...but social and emotional needs of children at that age so when they do enter Kindergarten, they have a strong foundation.

What is a basic schedule for everyday? Our program has a very consistent schedule that uses visual reminders. Breakfast, circle time, centers, large motor, lunch, rest, and small group times are incorporated every day.

 How do you know if your child is ready for preschool? Win-E-Mac has an Early Childhood Screening every spring for children ages 3 and 4. This is a quick, FREE developmental and health screening that rules out any concerns and also offers information for parents on what our program can offer their child.

What made you go into being a preschool teacher? As a student at Bemidji State University, I had to take a  class in early development. When I learned that children’s first years of life offer “windows of opportunity” for brain development that affect children the rest their lives, I wanted to learn more.  Children’s early learning experiences with stimulation, the environment, and nutrition has affects that last their lifetimes.

How often do children have trouble missing there parents and how do you deal with it? All of our staff are also parents....we understand it is very common for the transition into preschool to be an emotional one. Teachers work with families to make morning routines consistent, and our classroom is always  positive and safe. We strive to make our classroom a place where students are comfortable and excited to be at school.

 What is the difference between head start and ECFE? The Win-E-Mac preschool program is a  wonderful combination of several quality programs! Each program works together to provide support of health, family education and academic readiness. School Readiness offers families 2 full days a week and tuition is based on a sliding-fee based on income. We also have been awarded a Pathways II Scholarship for the 2nd year in a row, which offers tuition assistance to qualifying families. In addition, we also work with Headstart which can provide funding for  preschool for children 4yrs old and home-based services for children 0-3.  School Early Childhood Family Education is an additional program at our school that offers FREE family education classes and activities. We meet twice a week-in the evening and Friday mornings.

What is your favorite thing to teach in preschool? I have also worked as an elementary teacher..however preschoolers are special. They have an honestly and innocence about them that is unique. Preschoolers have so many milestones in the 9 months that we get to spend with them...I know our staff would agree that it is truly amazing to watch them grow. I believe that it takes a special person to work with young children.

What is the hardest thing about being a preschool teacher? A 4yr old is nonstop roller coaster of activity and emotion. When you think about all of the things that they are expected to learn and do independently in just one day...and take that times 20 and you have a typical preschool classroom. Being an early childhood teacher is not easy, but the rewards are priceless.

What are some things parents can do to help get there child ready for preschool? Parents are the #1 teacher in a child’s life. Honestly, with as busy as parents are in our world.....the most important thing is to take the time to be present, in the moment with them. Read to them, listening to their questions, tell stories, take the time to be be active and play, and even if it means a mess...let them help you make supper or water the flowers. Expose them to activities in their community and environment and enjoy them. A strong foundation will give them what they need to be successful not only in school but throughout their lives.