Early Preschool Classroom – The Forest Room (3 year olds)
As an early preschooler, your child will begin to explore their independence more in a larger classroom environment, with plenty of opportunity for expanding their social skills, vocabulary, team building, caring, all while learning their academics in a fun and exciting manner! They have a structured schedule to promote learning throughout the day.
Our teachers are excellent communicators and are always searching for ways to show children how to properly communicate their feelings/needs, to lessen the amount of physical confrontations that may occur. We believe in using “I statements”; “I’m sad because she took my toy.” We find that repetition and consistency with these statements is helpful for children to express what it is that they may be feeling and why, and then creates a platform for conflict resolution skills to build upon. These skills start rather simplistically, and as the child becomes more in tune with their feelings and environment, the “I statements” and the conflict resolution process become more complex. This creates a greater understanding of how social interactions work and the child gains self-confidence and independence.
Most 3 year olds are potty-trained but if they aren’t, we will work with parents and families to ensure we support each other to help each child gain confidence and the skills to use the bathroom independently.
Parent communication is high priority for our staff. Our teachers provide parents with a daily report on each child’s activities and pay special attention to ensure the parents feel informed as to how their child’s day went.
Early Preschool Daily Guide:(Click Here)
What to bring for your early preschooler:
We ask you to bring the following:
– bedding bag- crib sheet, blanket, small pillow and lovie (bag will be returned at the end of each week to be cleaned),
– clean changes of clothing (weather appropriate, 2-4 outfits)
– pull-ups as needed
– lunch in lunchbox with ice pack (If not participating in our Lunch Program)
Lead Teacher – Early Preschool
Hello! I moved to Maine when I was 5 and graduated from Gorham High School in 2018. I have always loved working with kids! In the past I have coached gymnastics, worked at a trampoline park, babysat regularly, and worked at the Academy with toddlers and preschool ages for almost 4 years before leaving to go help my families’ business. I have been here part time since leaving and have missed working with kids full-time. I am so excited to be back to take on this lead role in the Forest Room! I am passionate about making curriculum fun and engaging to prepare our children for their work in the Town Room!
Co-Teacher – Early Preschool
I’ve lived all over southern Maine. I went to Deering High school! I did competition dance for 8 years.
I’ve worked in childcare since 2022. I love animals and have 3 cats, a gecko and hamster- all with names of Greek gods.
I have a teenage sister, and a brother in first grade! I enjoy making art, snowboarding. I’m excited to have this opportunity to work with the children in the Forest Room!