Gwynedd Friends Preschool and Kindergarten
For information about Gwynedd Friends Kindergarten and Preschool call 215-699-5392 between 9:00 AM and 11:45 AM Monday through Friday, September through May.
The aim of Gwynedd Friends Preschool and Kindergarten is to nurture the physical, emotional, intellectual and spiritual growth of each child. In small, carefully supervised groups, the preschool child can develop a sense of his own identity, a respect for others' feelings and a growing awareness of the wider world. Children learn mutual respect and trust by acknowledging the intrinsic worth of every person. We believe in offering the kinds of experiences each child needs for individual growth and development. Our teachers are selected on the basis of their warmth and understanding, as well as their professional training and experience.
The preschool and kindergarten programs are held at the historic Gwynedd Friends Meetinghouse. The children enjoy a delightful playground on the surrounding acreage of lawn, old trees and buildings. Exploring, discovering, describing and interacting are the important work of a preschooler. At Gwynedd, we provide an environment rich in manipulative materials and experiences (art, sand, and water play, small and large construction, puzzles and games) and creative opportunities (music, movement and dance, field trips, experimenting, cooking, a housekeeping corner, puppetry and outdoor play). In all these endeavors, children participate at their own developmental level.
In addition, a post-session emphasizing outdoor activities, arts & crafts, and water play is offered the two weeks immediately following the regular school year.
A close association among teachers, children and parents assures a continuing learning process. Parental involvement is encouraged. The preschool brings parents and teachers together at several gatherings during the school year. Scheduled conferences are held with parents once per year.
Enrollment Criteria:
We welcome children of all faiths and races. To be eligible, a child must meet cutoff age by September 15th and be toilet trained.
Transportation:
Parents are urged to form carpools, as transportation is not provided by the Preschool. Class lists are available in September to facilitate these arrangements.
Calendar:
School is in session from the middle of September to the end of May, a total of 32 weeks, Monday through Friday with morning or afternoon sessions.
Registration:
Parents should arrange to observe classes prior to registration. A $100.00 registration fee, applicable to tuition, will be required with the registration application. Upon the child's acceptance into the program, the fee becomes non-refundable.
For further information:
Phone 215-699-5392 during school hours, or 215-884-3460 at other times. You may write the Preschool at 1101 DeKalb Pike, North Wales, PA 19454.
Programs
- THREE YEAR OLDS
Three-day program #1: Monday, Wednesday and Friday Mornings 9 AM until 11:30 AM.
Three-day program #2: Monday, Tuesday and Thursday afternoons, 12:15 PM until 2:45 PM.
Two day program: Tuesday and Thursday mornings: 9 AM until 11:30 AM.
- FOUR YEAR OLDS
Five-day program: Monday through Friday 9 AM until 11:30 AM.
Three-day program: Monday, Tuesday and Thursday afternoons, 12:15 PM until 2:45 PM.
- KINDERGARTEN
Monday through Friday, 9 AM until 1 PM. Must be five by September 15th.
- PLAY GROUPS
For Children 30-36 months of age, Monday and Wednesday Group or Tuesday and Thursday Group, 9:15 AM until 11:15 AM.
For Children 24-30 months of age, Friday mornings, 9:15 AM until 11:15 AM.
Summer Program
There are three weekly sessions in July and three in August. Children may attend one or more session, depending on availability. The program starts at 9:30 AM daily with parents being able to choose a pick-up just before lunch or a 1 PM pick-up after lunch.
Activities are outdoors whenever possible. They include growing vegetables, nature walks, water play, arts and crafts, ball games, and playing on the preschool playground. The children participate in a service project each week.
The mission of this program is to provide happy, carefree summer experiences for the children on the beautiful grounds of Gwynedd Friends.
