Frequently Asked Questions
How Do I Get More Information?
Come Visit! We encourage families to call our office to arrange a tour—preferably during the school day so you can see our classes in action. Our Director, Avery Lenhart, is in the office daily, and she is happy to arrange a tour and answer your questions. Please call her at 860-423-1070 to schedule a day and time your visit or to obtain further information.
What Are the Age Requirements?
Children need to be 3 years old by December 31 of the school year in which they will be enrolled. For example, if you wish to enroll in our 2013-2014 school year, your child must be age 3 by December of 2013. Each class is comprised of mixed ages, with an attempt to have an equal number of 3, 4, and 5 year olds in the same room. Our curriculum is appropriate for children beginning at age three and continuing on through Kindergarten.
Do you have an Open House?
Yes! In March we host an open house for prospective parents. Families are welcome to bring their child(ren) to this event. Teachers and other parents are in attendance to answer questions. At this time, our enrollment is officially open and enrollment paper work is available. If you’d like to be on our Open House mailing list, please email us and we’ll be sure to send you an invite!
How large are the classes?
The State of Connecticut requires that there be no more than 10 children to each adult. We tend to keep the ratio smaller, as this is more beneficial for the children. Our maximum class size is 18, and each class has a Head Teacher and two to three Assistant Teachers.
Can children nap?
Yes, if they need to. We provide cots and mats, and you can bring in one item for your child’s “rest bag” to help them relax and nap. Children who no longer nap are asked to read, or quietly work on art projects.
Our child isn’t potty trained yet. Does he/she need to be before coming to school?
No. We are set up to change diapers and happy to assist children transitioning into underpants.
Is there outside play time?
Yes. We go outside in all kinds of weather, except pouring rain. We are outside at least once a day for a half hour, at times more than that. We encourage seasonally appropriate outdoor clothes and shoes that can’t slip off a child’s foot.
What if my questions not on this list?
We are happy to answer any questions you may have. We are available in person, over the phone and via email at mthopemontessori@snet.net