Why should you choose Canterbury Day School for your preschool needs? That's a great question!

CDS is unique in a few ways! First, my preschool is located in a dedicated space in my residence and not a center. What this means for you is that my class sizes are small and individualized.  I still follow all regulations that are required of large centers, such as being licensed, background checked, insured and CPR/First Aid certified. I take continuing education, participate in the STARS program, attend childcare conferences and work with educators to ensure my curriculum meets Kentucky standards.

Next, I teach in a way that children learn - through play! We are always moving, exploring and growing. That does not mean it is not a structured program - it means that I use a combination of teacher led and child led activities. If a child shows a desire to learn something new, I follow their lead and run with it! I am not chained to a certain curriculum without flexibility. Some of the best lessons I've ever taught were initiated by a student.

We are outside A LOT! Children need to run and play. They need to climb, throw balls and engage in imaginative play.  We play with water, sand, rocks, bugs, plants and bubbles. We learn to be respectful of each other and our bug friends. If it's warm, there's a good chance my students will go home wet and muddy. I tell parents to never send their child in their best clothes and keep a towel in the car.

Parents are an integral part of my program. You are their first teacher, and to be successful, we work together. That means reading to them, talking about what they learned at school, and just being present. I could not do what I do without the amazing grownups who remember to send a toy for show and share or rainboots for muddy play.

Finally, choose my school because I truly love this vocation. I love teaching children, and I treat them like I would want my own children to be treated. I am a mother and a grandmother, and I know that feeling of dropping off a child and driving away.

I get it.

Know that my number one priority is to keep them safe and to help them feel loved.  My school is their first exposure to education, and I want it to be positive. I want them to be successful. I want them to learn that we are all citizens of this beautiful planet and loving one another is key.

If they get messy while learning these skills, all the better!