Children are escorted by their parents to their School Readiness classroom, arriving between 7:30 and 9:30 AM (children's school hours are based on parents' work schedule).

They are greeted, offered breakfast and begin to participate in a learning environment which includes the block area, house corner, table toys, art, sand and water, library, music and movement, and computers. These interest areas promote learning in literacy, mathematics, science and social studies. Most important, children learn to respect each other and learn the benefits of cooperation. Children begin to learn how to learn.

After free play, the teacher brings the group together for sharing, songs and a discussion of the day's activities. The children then break into small groups where they participate in activities that promote skill development, addressing the individual needs of the children in each small group.

Weather permitting, the children go to the playground for outdoor activities. Before noon, children return, wash their hands and help set the table for lunch. Mealtimes, like all other scheduled activities that are part of the child's day, are a good time for learning and conversation. Children learn to serve themselves, eat with a group and try new foods. This enhances positive feelings towards food and nutrition.

Following lunch, the children brush their teeth and prepare for rest time. Because these needs vary for individual children, we encourage children to bring sleep toys or special blankets from home. Those children who do not sleep are provided books or engage in quiet activity.

The late afternoon period begins with a snack at 3:00 followed by outdoor play. The children then select from a variety of activity choices and, after clean-up, are ready for dismissal and pick-up by their parents by 5:30.