Plumstead Township is hosting a touch a truck and a movie night on 9/16/23 @ Hanusey Park

Save the Date for the Meet the Teacher Open House event on Thursday, August 24, from 4-5 pm. Classrooms will be open for students and their families to meet the teacher, tour the room, drop off student items, and ask questions. An excellent opportunity for the children and families to feel more at ease on their first day of school.

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Outdoor learning offers numerous benefits for young children, promoting holistic development and providing unique educational experiences. Here are five key things that outdoor learning does for young children: Physical Development: Outdoor environments encourage physical activity, such as running, jumping, climbing, and playing with nature-based materials. These activities help develop gross and fine motor skills, coordination, balance, and overall physical fitness. Cognitive Development: Exploring outdoor spaces stimulates curiosity and problem-solving skills. Children engage with natural elements, observe patterns in nature, and make connections between the environment and their classroom learning. This hands-on experience fosters critical thinking, creativity, and an understanding of cause-and-effect relationships. Social and Emotional Development: Outdoor settings provide opportunities for collaborative play and interactions with peers. Children learn to negotiate, share, and communicate effectively while engaging in imaginative and cooperative activities. Exposure to nature also promotes emotional well-being, reduces stress, and enhances mood, contributing to overall mental health. Sensory Exploration: Outdoor environments offer a wealth of sensory experiences—feeling different textures, smelling flowers, hearing birds chirping, and observing changing weather conditions. These sensory encounters help refine children's sensory processing abilities and enhance their sensory awareness. Environmental Awareness and Stewardship: Outdoor learning cultivates a sense of wonder and appreciation for the natural world. Children develop an understanding of ecosystems, biodiversity, and sustainability. This early exposure to nature often leads to greater environmental consciousness and a desire to protect and care for the planet.

Top 12 things to consider when touring a preschool: Teacher Experience: Inquire about the teachers' education, training, and experience in early childhood education. Curriculum: Understand the curriculum's structure, make sure the curriculum fits your child and what your looking for in an education. Learning Materials: Assess the variety and quality of learning materials, toys, books and resources available to children. Does your school have a library? Daily Schedule: Review the daily routine, including a balance of learning, play, meals, rest, and outdoor time. Outdoor Play Area: Inspect the outdoor space for safety, age-appropriate equipment, and opportunities for active play. Indoor Environment: Consider the classroom layout, organization, and ambiance to foster a conducive learning atmosphere. Health and Illness Policies: Understand the preschool's policies regarding sick children, vaccinations, and health screenings. Transitions to Kindergarten: Discuss how the preschool prepares children for the transition to kindergarten. Philosophy and Values: Explore the preschool's teaching philosophy, values, and how they align with your family's beliefs. Teacher Tenure: Inquire about staff turnover rates, as consistent teachers can provide stability for children. Technology Usage: Understand the use of technology in the classroom and its role in learning and development. References and Reviews: Seek feedback from current and past parents to gain insights into the preschool's reputation and performance. As you tour different preschools, keep a checklist of these factors and any other considerations that are important to your family. This will help you make a well-informed decision that aligns with your child's needs and your family's values.