I know this is a frequent topic, so I'll try make my request short and to the point: My oldest is 2- she'll be 3 in May. Right now she has a nanny that comes to watch her and my new baby everyday. She is very smart (we all say that about our kids, don't we) and articulate and I can't help but think that she is craving a more structured learning environment. She plays at home all day with our nanny's 10 month old and my 3 month old so she isn't getting any time with her peers and I feel like it is holding her back somewhat.
I really want her to be able to interact with and learn from some kids closer to her age and I also want her to be involved in some structured learning time to cultivate and nurture her intellectual development. So what do I do? She is probably too young for a preschool and she already has a nanny. Is there any schools/centers/programs that cater to this age? I still want her to have plenty of free play time, I know how important that is, but I also want some structured learning time as well. I think she would trive in that type of environment.
if she is 3 by 9-1-08 she should be old enough for a preschool...
St Paul has programs for early childhood ecfc- you can contact the school district. I don't know the # but their address is 360 colborne st st paul
At almost three, we sent our daughter to Miniapple Montessori where the children's room included 2 1/2 year olds to 6 year olds. Great challenges for all ages/levels and excellent teaching staff. Our daughter has loved it! I think 3 is a great age for a quality pre-school. Check out your local pubilc pre-schools too. Socially, three-year olds quickly start moving from independent/caregiver play to wanting to be with friends. That's been terribly sweet to see our daughter want to go back to school to see her peers. I also work full-time. Best!
Check out your community ECFE (early childhood family education). You can find it with whatever public school district you are in!
Fraser in Richfield does a preschool 2or 3 days a week for that age. Both my boys have gone there and they have a wonderful staff and I have never heard anything to the contrary from other parents. They integrate special needs children with typical needs in a unique and loving enviroment. Let me know if I can answer more specific questions for you- Best of luck.
There are a ton of preschools out there for this age. My daughter turns 3 in May also. We have been having her at a church preschool since Nov. and this summer we signed her up for the Dodge Nature Center Summer Program. We are trying to get her into it in the fall also but its on a wait list. I do daycare and had the same issues. I think its really good for my daughter and she has really grown from the experience.
