Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How do kids learn at All Children Great and Small?
Each child’s experience at ACGS is unique. All children participate in two meetings, one to open the day and another to close it. These meetings begin with a song and may include reading, discussion, music, and dance. The Creation Station, Art and Science Lab, sand box, and outdoor climbing structures are available to the children as opportunities for engagement and learning. Each child chooses where to spend their time throughout the day.
Q: At what age can my child start?
The starting age is 2 years old, and ACGS is licensed for children up to 7 years old.
Q: What are the benefits to having a mixed age program?
The younger kids learn from the older ones and the older kids get to be the “big kids” and show the new students the ropes.
Q: What is the teacher-to-student ratio?
The maximum number of children in one session is 21 students, which is a 7:1 ratio. Depending on the session the teacher-to-student ratio may vary.
Q: Does my child need to be potty trained in order to start school?
No, and we will help encourage those who need it to achieve their potty training goals!
Q: Is there a set curriculum?
Because we know that all learning takes place in a social framework, and is effective as well as cognitive, our classroom environment must value and allow for individual differences and multiple forms of personal expression of moods, feelings, and emotional needs. Your child will be free to choose what they want to do and where they would like to play according to individual preferences, interests, and readiness.
Q: Are snacks provided?
We are not currently offering snacks. Please send snacks and drinks with your child each day. Nuts are not allowed.
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Q: What is your approach to conflict and how do you handle discipline?
Children at ACGS share space, toys, tools, and attention with other kids, so conflict is going to happen. When children express their (sometimes “big”) feelings, we support them not only by genuinely hearing and holding space for them, but also by teaching them to listen to one another. Recognizing and communicating one's own feelings, while listening to and hearing how others are feeling in turn, are vital tools that we use to help guide children in recognizing their feelings and finding ways to cope with them. Every situation is a learning experience.
Q: How much parent involvement is required?
Parent Participation requirements are as follows:
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Every Parent participates in fundraising
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Every Parent volunteers for a minimum of 2 community events
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Every Family volunteers for 1 cleanup party
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Every Family is assigned a specific job within a committee.
Q: How much fundraising does your school do and why?
Every family is required to help out in fundraising.
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Fundraising is an integral part of the operation of our school. It provides additional and necessary funds for our maintenance and development. Fundraising can only be successful if there is a commitment from every family in our community. We reach out for local support, and to our alumni as well.
Q: How do you keep parents updated?
Information about school-related activities will be located on the website. In an effort to save paper, emails and e-newsletters may also be sent out as reminders. There is a bulletin board outside the front door where certain sign-ups and flyers may be posted, so check it out when you are at the school.