What better way to learn about the preschool experience than talking with classroom teachers? We chatted with three local teachers to learn why they chose teaching as a vocation and the joy of surrounding themselves with three- to five-year-olds daily. In the process, they offer valuable advice on choosing a preschool.
THE DECISION TO TEACH
Preschool is an exciting and important milestone for both parents and children. Preschool teachers are pretty magical, with seemingly unlimited patience and kindness. Why did these teachers go into the profession?
Carisa Abila of Serendipity Preschool always knew that she wanted to work with young children, and after graduating from college, working at a preschool allowed her to gain more experience in the field of child development. From there, she says, “I completely fell in love with the age group and became invested in the children, families, and school community.”
Elaine Fernandez spent several years teaching older grades. She eventually took the position of full-time prekindergarten teacher at Santa Catalina. The catalyst? According to Fernandez, it’s “their excitement and eagerness to learn, as well as the hilarious stories they tell.”
Brandy Morrow of The Parent Center took a child development class in high school and has “been working with kids and teaching in different levels and roles ever since.”
BUILDING CONNECTIONS
Preschool families tend to form bonds that will last years for some. It’s not just a great way for the children to socialize but also for the parents, especially at co-op preschools.
At The Parent Center, the adults interact and get to know one another during their time in the classroom. It can also throw parents out of their comfort zone. During a recent music and movement class, Morrow had four parents waving silk scarves as they danced along to the music. The dads and kids got into it and had a blast.
The family of a student in Elaine’s class owned a farm and brought in a baby lamb to share with the class. This student was so proud to share how they were taking care of it, and it was a great experience for all the other students.
At Serendipity Preschool the teachers and administration frequently receive updates from families about former students which helps in creating a strong sense of community. In fact, a current teacher was once a student. Carisa says, “Serendipity is a big reason why I have come to love preschool so much because of how the Nuovo family has built a community, as well as a family, with their staff and clients.”
At Santa Catalina, a program called Projects of Passion allows the students to choose a service learning place to work with throughout the year. This year’s prekindergarten class adopted the Santa Cruz SPCA. The students took a field trip to the Santa Cruz SPCA to learn about what they do to help animals and which animals they help. The students also collected used towels for use within the animal shelter.
A TYPICAL DAY
Each of our preschool teachers has a routine that builds consistency for the children. They engage with parents as the child is dropped off and help the children settle into the morning, including one or more circle time sessions, outdoor play, crafts, reading, and other activity time.
At Serendipity Preschool, even the littlest learners get to take advantage of campus resources, including going to the gymnasium for PE, the dance studio to have creative dance lessons, and the library.
Music and movement are a big part of The Parent Center curriculum and Brandy’s favorite part of the day. She says that the children “get to explore different ways to move, and kids have to listen and follow directions and move their bodies in ways that might be more challenging but in a fun way. It’s fun to watch the parents be silly during that time, too.”
ADVICE ON CHOOSING A PRESCHOOL
Finding the right fit for your child is usually the top concern of parents when choosing a preschool. These teachers advised parents to visit the schools they’re considering, meet the teachers, and ask a lot of questions. Carisa advises parents to trust their intuition about the environment they want their children in.
The teachers shared that parents should look for an age-appropriate program that fits the needs of their child and family. Make sure it’s play-based, the staff is organized and friendly, and the teachers have an education in early childhood.
According to Elaine, “If you’re looking for a great head start for your child and something curriculum-based, asking questions about their program is a great place to start. It depends on your family needs and where you believe your child will thrive.”
SETTING YOUR CHILD UP FOR SUCCESS
If you’re almost ready to send your child off to preschool, there are some things you can do to make the transition as easy as possible. You’ve probably been playing letter games with your child, practicing cutting with child scissors, coloring, and reading to your child. This is an excellent time to double up on those activities so your child is comfortable and familiar with some of the basics of a preschool day. You’ll want to communicate with your child about the new experience. Carisa advises, “Talk to them about what’s going to happen, visit the school together, and talk about or even meet the teacher.”
She further advises parents of children who haven’t had experience with an outside caregiver to introduce them to activities or other caregivers before their first day of school.
Elaine reminds parents, “The first days of school can be scary, so telling your child what to expect and giving them extra love or their favorite snack can be helpful.”
These teachers agree on keeping the lines of communication open with your child’s new caregivers. Your child’s teachers are happy to help parents through this transition! Keep in touch, ask questions, and read your school’s email or online portal messages. Most importantly, talk to your child. Ask them questions about their day, listen to their stories, and assess how they are adapting.
The teachers included in this article share a dedication to their students. It’s easy to see that our little ones are in great hands for their first educational experience in any of their classrooms.
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