Westminster Preschool
Westminster Preschool was established in 1995 by the Fanwood Presbyterian Church as part of its ministry to the greater community it presently serves.
Westminster Preschool is for children between the ages of 2 1/2 and 4 years old. The preschool occupies rooms in the Education Building of the Fanwood Presbyterian Church, located at Martine and LaGrande Avenue in Fanwood. The school is under the direction of Mrs. Kim Russo.
Our preschool is designed to make young children feel secure and build their self-confidence in a classroom environment. We provide a developmentally appropriate curriculum focusing on learning through play within a Christian context. Children will develop socialization skills as they interact with other children. Kindergarten readiness skills are also emphasized especially in our 4 year old program. Fine and gross motor skills, arts and crafts, music, science, beginning math, snack time, playtime and story time are an integral part of the school day. We also incorporate a formal handwriting curriculum, Handwriting Without Tears, in our 3 and 4 year old classrooms.
Our Philosophy
The purpose of the school is to provide a Christian context in which children can experience and learn of God's love for them, for their classmates, and for the world in which they live. Believing that each child is special, our group and individual activities are designed to help each child develop skills according to his or her own rate of social and emotional growth. Positive feelings about self and others are encouraged by an experienced and caring staff, including NJ state certified teachers with many years of experience.
Our Classes
3 MINUS CLASSROOM
2 days a week (Tuesday & Thursday)
Our 3 Minus class focuses on the Toddler as an active learner. Our goal is for the children tolearn the routine and develop a love of learning. We accomplish this through movement, art and play. Our teachers work with families to allow the children to grow at their own pace in a fun, nurturing, and child-focused environment.
3 YEAR OLD CLASSROOM
3 or 5 days a week (MWF OR M-F)
In our 3 year old classrooms, the children learn to be independent thinkers and learners using the Learning Centers. They work in large and small groups and learn the routine of a classroom. They enjoy their day creating artwork, listening to stories and are active participants in theirlearning. The teachers focus on the child and create a nurturing environment where they feel safe.
PRE-K 4 YEAR OLD CLASSROOM
5 days a week (M-F)
Our PreK classroom focuses on the child and sets them up for success! Using the Learning Centers the children are able to understand concepts through building, creating art, listening to stories and their own imagination. Our certified teacher prepares the children for Kindergarten by helping them gain independence and learning the basic concepts necessary to succeed at their next level of education. Incorporating math, science and social studies to the daily routine each child can explore and learn at his/her own pace.
TRANSITION KINDERGARTEN CLASSROOM
5 days a week (M-F) *
This class is carefully designed for the child eligible for Kindergarten, yet desiring the "extra growing year" before beginning a Kindergarten program. Also included, will be children on the older side, (fall/winter birthdays) again, in need of a higher level of instruction. Our T-K Class builds on the concepts from our PreK 4 year old Classroom so that children continue to be excited about learning. Our certified teacher incorporates beginner reading strategies, writing practices and math skills that the children will see in Kindergarten while also allowing the child to mature at their own pace. The focus will also include “life skills” such as a lunch time so that the children can understand the concept of eating in a group and becoming independent when eating. Our goal is to continue to instill a love of learning and setting up every child for success when beginning Kindergarten!
* Please note that this class may have a different may have a different start and end time.
Enrichment Programs
BRIGHT MINDS ENRICHMENT
Bright Minds is an enrichment program that is literature based as well as STEM focused. This class helps shape the children into active learners while focusing on kindergarten preparation beyond our regular classes. The program will strengthen student's academic skills, as well as enhance their love of learning and exploring. Kim Slifer and Lisa Alchus, both former kindergarten teachers, teach this program. Bright Minds is offered before or after your child's preschool class to extend his/ her day. This program has a separate registration and cost. It is offered on most Mondays and Thursdays and registration is by session.
WESTMINSTER WRAP
Our Wrap program is for families who need some flexible schedules. This 1.5 hour program is an added cost and is offered to children who are bathroom independent. Wrap meets opposite your child’s regular assigned class. During their time at Wrap the children will be guided in play, have lunch and enjoy extra recess time. This is another way to extend your child’s day.