Child`s holiday plea heard around world

KIDS
PRESCHOOL GUIDE — PAGE A1
JANUARY 2016
FREE!
A monthly newspaper — Sponsored by The Chester County Intermediate Unit and Chester County’s public schools
Child’s holiday plea heard around world
Coatesville soph leads a
card-sending campaign
Two years ago Sa’fyre Terry lost her
father and three siblings in an horrific
house fire, later ruled to be arson, in
Schenectady, N.Y. Sa'fyre was burned
over 75 percent of her body, losing her
right hand and left foot.
For Christmas, she wanted to receive
enough cards to fill a Christmas treeshaped card holder purchased at a thrift
store. Her custodial aunt, fearing
Sa'fyre wouldn’t receive enough cards,
put out a plea on Facebook, and it went
viral.
The world heard and responded,
including Emma Sevick, a sophomore
at Coatesville Area Senior High School.
Sevick read the touching story about
Sa’fyre early in December on
MSN.com. And, she jumped into action.
“I read her story on MSN.com,” said
Sevick. “It really got me thinking about
how lucky some of us are to have
everything that we do — clothes, a
house, a family ... She doesn’t have a
lot and she’s only eight.
“I wanted to give her everything that
I possibly could, and when I read she
wanted Christmas cards, my heart
melted,” said Sevick. “I decided that I
wanted to make this one of her happiest
Christmases yet, so I wrote a card out
from my family. I didn't think that was
enough, so I thought to involve the
school and my fellow peers. I’m really
happy I did.”
Sevick brought her idea to 9/10
Center Principal Brian Chenger. She
wanted to set up a table during her
lunch period for anyone who wanted to
join her effort. The first day she
brought in 80-to-90 cards, and they
were filled out and signed by students
in a matter of minutes.
Sevick came to school the next day
with 50 more cards for other students to
sign. Many of the cards each had 10-to20 separate messages for Sa’fyre. A
simple act of kindness started by one
student quickly multiplied to that of
hundreds.
Sa’fyre Kelly’s story has grown well
beyond her hometown of Schenectady,
and she has received more than 300,000
cards and gifts from people in the
United States, Canada and around the
world. The family said it plans to lie the
cards out on the lawn to take a photo
with an aerial drone as a “thank you” to
everyone who sent one.
In addition, a YouCaring campaign
page to help pay for Sa’fyre’s medical
bills was set up with a goal of $15,000.
As of early December, the total had
reached nearly $350,000.
Emma Sevick, a sophomore at Coatesville
High School’s 9/10 Center, sits at a table
filled with cards, signed by her fellow
students, for an 8-year-old burn victim.
‘Shining Star’ award nominations open
Nominations for the Keystone Federal
Credit Union’s Ninth Annual “Shining
Star” awards are open.
The program is designed to recognize
students who have shown a noticeable
improvement in academic performance,
extracurricular involvement, attendance,
and classroom conduct throughout the
school year.
“Shining Star” winners each will
receive a $200 share certificate of
deposit and a trophy from Keystone
FCU. Three students from each of the 12
Chester County public school districts,
Twin Valley School District and the
Chester County Intermediate Unit will
earn awards.
Winners include one student from the
elementary (K-to-5), middle (6-to-8),
and high school (9-to-12) levels from
each district. Plus, the teachers of the
winning students will receive a $200 gift
card to stock up on classroom supplies.
Chester County public school teachers
can each nominate their most improved
student for the award. Each teacher is
asked to write a paragraph nominating a
student from one of his/her classes
whom he/she feels embodies the spirit of
this award. All nominated students will
receive a certificate of recognition.
Keystone FCU is proud to provide
financial literacy and educational support
for the educators and students of Chester
County. Nominations will be accepted
until April 1. For more information, and
to complete a nomination form, visit
www. keystonefcu.org.
Keystone Federal Credit Union,
founded in 1939, serves Chester County
educators and employees of more than
200 select businesses. A not-for-profit,
financial cooperative, Keystone FCU has
three branch locations in Chester County,
Pennsylvania and three student-run
branches in partnership with the West
Chester Area School District.
PAGE 1 PUBLISHERS • P.O. BOX 72501, THORNDALE, PA., 19372
phone: 610-363-6437 • e-mail: [email protected] • online: www.cciu.org/kidsnews
GOOD CITIZENSHIP
KIDS 2
JANUARY 2016
Work hard on your child’s character development
By BARB CRONIN
YMCA of Greater Brandywine
In a world where headlines are
dominated by tragedies, it is even more
critical that parents and guardians work
harder to influence their child’s character
development to become good citizens
and learn the importance of volunteering.
With the holidays still forefront in
your mind, now is the perfect time to
remind your child about the important
981 East Lancaster Ave.
Downingtown, PA
Dodge Ball - Battle Beam
WARRIOR Obstacle Course
contribution he/she can make in his/her
community. Simple things like making a
card for a soldier overseas, visiting a
nursing home and bringing your biggest
smile, or even dropping a can of food off
at a food bank can show your child firsthand how something simple can make all
the difference in the world to someone.
One of the best ways to instill this
value in your child is by volunteering
yourself. There are numerous
opportunities through various non-profit
organizations such as the Y or local
community center to make a difference
in the lives of others. From donating
food, toys, clothing and other items to
being of service, the options are many.
The American Red Cross has an entire
youth section called the Junior Red
Cross. Soup kitchens, nursing homes, or
food banks can use extra hands and
voices. Your child will experience firsthand the satisfaction of helping someone
who really needs it.
[email protected]
There are more ways to help your
child to become a good citizen, too.
You can help your child develop the
skills to become a good citizen by
modeling these key character traits:
• Caring — showing a sincere concern
for others;
• Honesty — being truthful in what
you say and do;
• Respect — treating others as you
would like to be treated;
• Responsibility — being accountable
for your promises and actions.
Being honest is a trait we learned at
an early age and pass on to our children.
Parents need to remember why our child
may lie — such as being afraid to get in
trouble. Handling those situations with a
firm, but caring attitude, can build a
solid foundation for the future.
Electronics can make it easy for your
child to reach out to friends, but it can
also make it easier to forget that there is
a real person with real feelings on the
other end. Try putting some limits on the
time your child uses electronics so
he/she will be forced to make personal
contact with others. Playing outside with
friends not only gives your child
important physical activity, but offers the
opportunity to practice dealing with
others. And, as a result he/she can learn
to treat others the way he/she wants to
be treated.
Responsibility can be taught in
numerous ways – from assigning chores
to caring for a pet or even joining a
sports team. When a household chore,
the well-being of a pet, or the success of
a team is dependent on your child, the
consequences (pro or con) teach the
importance of being responsible for what
he/she does.
Getting your child involved is the key.
The Girl Scouts and Boy Scouts of
America, for example, take pride in
providing programs for young people
that build courage, confidence and
character in a fun way for potential
future leaders.
Joining a sports team can teach
valuable lessons in teamwork, work ethic
and sportsmanship. Running programs,
such as the YMCA’s Girls on the Run,
Heart and Sole and STRIDE, not only
teach fitness through training for a 5K,
but important life skills, such as
empowerment, responsibility, diversity,
joy, optimism and compassion.
Volunteerism is another wonderful
way to build your child’s character. Now
is the time to help your child develop the
positive values, behaviors and skills that
can help shape his adulthood in a
constructive way.
JANUARY 2016
PHOENIXVILLE
KIDS 3
Students’ graduation projects make ‘major impact’ on the community
Phoenixville Area High School students are required to complete a graduation
project before receiving their diplomas. Upon completion, students present their
projects to their fellow peers and faculty members. Students are required to
volunteer a minimum of 15 hours, but most contribute far more in service to their
community. In order to personalize the projects, the students choose projects
based on their areas of interest. This also fosters dedication to their project. The
wide variety of ventures has made a major impact on the Phoenixville
community. The following are some of the projects presented: planting 36 native
trees in Phoenixville Borough, Logan Morin and Leif Morin; working with the
Chester County SPCA, Erin Morris; creating murals to beautify the high school
building, Anne Moses; working at Stepping Stones Preschool, Chiderah Nwosu,
Amy Nihart and Marilynne Parker; organizing a Relay for Life team to benefit the
Make a Wish Foundation, Megan Olsson and Amelia Kirk; executing a girls
basketball clinic for younger athletes, Paige Oustrich; choreographing a dance
for aspiring cheerleaders, Kylie Panella; volunteering at Barnstone Art For Kids,
Phoenixville, with at-risk children, Emily Lolli; and organizing a ‘Paint-the-Town’
color run benefiting For Pete's Sake, Allie Little. In the photograph above left,
Erin Morris presents a summary of her work with the Chester County SPCA; in
the photograph at right, Logan Morin, who worked with his twin brother, Leif,
makes a presentation about their project to plant 36 native trees in Phoenixville
Borough.
At Brady Orthodontics, we take pride in creating
beautiful smiles for both adults and children. From
traditional braces to the latest Invisalign technology,
we’ll create a smile to last a lifetime.
Dr. Thomas A. Brady is a
graduate of the University of
Pittsburgh – School of Dental
Medicine. A delegate to the
Pennsylvania Dental Association,
Dr. Brady is a Diplomate of the
American Board of Orthodontics
and former President of the
Chester and Delaware County
Dental Societies. A resident of
Exton, he is the father of two
children.
• Flexible payment options available • Most insurance plans accepted
• Convenient hours including evenings • On-time appointments
• Board certified • Invisalign certified
• Free initial exam and consultation
Now offering INCOGNITO BRACES!!
These customized braces go behind the
teeth and are completely hidden.
Raised in New Jersey and South
Carolina, Dr. Erica Harvey is a
graduate of Villanova University
with a degree in computer
engineering. She completed her
dental school training at the
University of Pittsburgh. In her
free time, she enjoys hiking,
running, skiing and dabbling in
golf. Dr. Harvey recently
completed her first marathon in
Philadelphia.
MEDICAL ARTS BUILDING
80 W. Welsh Pool Road, Suite 203, Exton, PA 19341
610-363-2200 • www.drthomasbrady.com
NEW PATIENTS
WELCOME!!
‘Our children look to us
for a model of how to live’
By LISA MARIE CRANE
A while ago, a friend of mine applied
for an academic grant. She was accepted
as a candidate and invited to attend a
week-long qualifying seminar. Here she
would make the case that she was
worthy of the grant.
Most grant programs ask about
academic credits, ethnic or national
background, practical experience or
future goals. This program asked the
candidates to prove that they had
integrity.
What does integrity mean? According
to the dictionary, integrity is “the firm
adherence to a code of especially moral
or artistic values.” Synonyms include
incorruptibility, character, decency,
goodness, honesty, virtuousness, and
consistency.
A person with integrity has high moral
standards. These require a lifetime to
develop and apply. So, just how does
one prove one has integrity in a single
week?
The grant candidates were asked to
create a presentation which would
explain their own particular
understanding of integrity. Some fell
back on the dictionary definition. Others
used examples from philosophy or
history. Some used artistic
representations.
One told a story from his childhood.
‘When asked to define
integrity, will your children
think of you? Our children will
prove our integrity with the
lives they live.’
Another shared the experiences of her
immigrant family. Figures from history
were invoked — Eleanor Roosevelt,
Mahatma Gandhi and Frederick Douglas.
More current heroes were proposed —
Nelson Mandela, Billy Graham and Fred
Rogers.
Everyone had a different example or
personal opinion about integrity. Each
presentation included a representative
visual for integrity.
Integrity has many meanings. When
applied to buildings or bridges, it means
that the structure is sound. When applied
in academia, it means that research is
exhaustive or that sources are
unimpeachable, and that all the work
being claimed is that of the person
taking credit for it.
H. Jackson Brown, Jr., author of
“Life’s Little Instruction Book” has a
definition specifically for parents, “Live
so that when children think of fairness,
caring and integrity, they think of you.”
Most of us will never be asked to
prove that we have integrity in one
KIDS
JANUARY 2016
A PARENT’S VIEW
KIDS 4
Lisa Marie
Crane is a
mother, a
grandmother
and a retired
public school
teacher in
Chester
County. She is
a graduate of
West Chester
University, and
received a master’s degree in
children’s literature from Hollins
College in Virginia.
week. But we are asked to live with
integrity every day we parent. Our
children look to us for a model of how to
live. Do we show them a life of
integrity? Is our parenting sound? Will it
hold up to the scrutiny of a three-yearold who constantly asks, “Why?”
Or, when tested by a teen, will its
foundations hold? When your children
become parents themselves, will their
“sources,” the “exhaustive research” they
did as your children, be unimpeachable?
When asked to define integrity, will your
children think of you?
Our children will prove our integrity
with the lives they live. My friend
presented her case and won her grant. It
was an important step in her life’s goals.
Recently, she became a parent. It will
take more than a week, but the integrity
she shows as a parent will result in a
greater goal — the love and respect of
her child.
And, if her integrity holds, her
children will carry it forward into the
world.
VOLUME 24 • NUMBER 10
JANUARY 2016
A monthly publication of the
Chester County Intermediate Unit
and Page 1 Publishers, Inc.
KIDS is sponsored by the Chester County
Intermediate Unit and published by Page 1
Publishers, Inc., of Downingtown.
KIDS is distributed by the Intermediate Unit
in the elementary and middle schools
through the voluntary participation of the
Avon Grove, Coatesville, Downingtown,
Great Valley, Kennett, Octorara, Owen J.
Roberts, Oxford, Phoenixville, TredyffrinEasttown, Unionville-Chadds Ford and West
Chester school districts.
Circulation: 35,000 copies
The advertisements in this issue
do not necessarily represent the
views of Chester County's public school
districts. KIDS reserves the right to reject
any advertising.
The Chester County Intermediate Unit and
Page 1 Publishers, Inc.,
are equal opportunity employers.
E-mail press releases, to:
[email protected].
For advertising information:
call 610-363-6437 or e-mail
[email protected].
Sharman Ludwick, Advertising Manager
Page 1 Publishers, Inc.
P.O. Box 72501
Thorndale, Pa., 19372
the only fulltime pediatric ophthalmologist in town
795 East
Street,Street
Suite 103
440 Marshall
East Marshall
West Chester
Chester
West
610-429-3004
www.mudgil.com
x
x
x
x
x
Specializing in:
Board Certified
Fellowship Trained
Member of the American Association for Pediatric Ophthalmology and Strabismus
Member of the American Academy of Ophthalmology
Member of the American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery
JANUARY 2016
OXFORD
KIDS 5
‘Angel Tree’
For the fourth year in a row, an overwhelming number of Oxford Area High
School students and staff brought joy to many local families during the holiday
season. They contributed to an ‘Angel Tree,’ sponsored by the social studies
department through the Salvation Army of Chester County. Each of the high
school’s social studies classrooms sponsored an ‘angel,’ representing a child in
the Oxford community who would otherwise go without during the holidays.
Additional angels were adopted by other classes, staff members and families.
Forty-eight boxes of items were collected for 35 children, according to clothing
sizes, specific needs and wishes for Christmas. Pictured (front, from left) are
Will Johnson, Keith Froude, Alex Sanchez, Christian Billings, Cody LaForte,
(standing, from left) Carolyn Morse, Kylie Shelderfer, Hailey Brooks, Nikki Patel,
Crisanta Martin, Ally Brinton, Sydney Campbell, Austin Watson and social
studies teacher Dolly Coldiron.
Canned food drive
Nottingham Elementary School’s 11th annual canned food drive resulted in a
donation of 732 cans and boxes of food to the Oxford Presbyterian Church food
cupboard for food baskets for needy Oxford families. Each year Nottingham
collaborates with the Oxford Neighborhood Services Center to provide extra
support to families in need during the holiday season. In addition, Neighborhood
Services provides needy families with a no-cost, gift-shopping opportunity
through its ‘Christmas Room’ program. This year Nottingham donated more than
150 gifts to the Christmas Room. The drive was organized and coordinated by
guidance counselor Nadine D’Angelo. Pictured are (from left) D’Angelo, Principal
Lisa Yingst, fourth graders Hannah Martin, Ella Merritt and Jacob Higgins, and
Assistant Principal Matthew Hovanec.
THIS IS WHAT
81 Lancaster Ave, Great Valley Center
.BMWFSO 1" r - Pinball and Video Arcade - Family Fun for All Ages We have over 50 pinball machines and video arcade
machines available for unlimited play with paid admission
(no coins required).
HAPPY BIRTHDAY
LOOKS LIKE
Make your next party AWESOME!
There s no easier way to throw your kids the
There’s
best party ever.
ever Just show up and Sky Zone
does the rest.
Admission rates are as follows:
ONE HOUR OF PLAY................................................................ $8
PLAY ALL DAY (RE-ENTRY IS OK) .......................................... $20
FAMILIES OF 3 OR MORE PLAYERS (ALL DAY)..... $15/PERSON
HOURS
HOURS
Monday-Tuesday-----------------------CLOSED CHE
Monday-Tuesday
CLOSED
CK OU
IRE
Wednesday-Friday
11:30
am-1:30 pm
T
INQU UR Wednesday-Friday--------11:30am-1:30pm
O
O
T
5:30
pm-9 pm FUND UR
ABOU IES!
5:30pm-9pm
RAISE
Saturday
2 pm-9
pm
RS
PART
Saturday
------------------------------2pm-9pm
Sunday
2 pm-7 pm
Sunday --------------------------------- 2pm-7pm
BOOK YOUR PARTY NOW!
Great Party Options Available
t
50% Additional
*A limited number of games are also available for coin-play without a paid admission
SKY Z
SK
ZONE GLEN MILLS
10 Conchester Ave, Glen Mills, PA 19342 | 484-418-1500
Reserve your jump time now at skyzone.com/glenmills
check us out at: www.pinballgallery.net
The Sky Zone Trampoline Park courts are protected by U. S. Patent No. 5,624,112.
This Sky Zone location is an independently owned and operated franchise.
KIDS 6
COATESVILLE
JANUARY 2016
‘Grinch Day’
‘Cozies for Chemo’
Approximately 40 students and eight adults from North Brandywine Middle
School, Coatesville, recently created cozy blankets for cancer patients. Eighth
grader Abby Blakley, who facilitated the idea, said, ‘My parents have a friend
whose daughter started the program a few years ago and I thought it was a great
idea. I wanted to bring it here because I wanted us to make a difference,
especially since this is ‘Kindness Week.’ The group created 13 blankets that were
delivered on Dec. 11 to ‘Cozies for Chemo, a non-profit which provides hand tied
fleece blankets to cancer patients in the United States and Canada. The weeklong ‘Kindness Week’ celebration was organized by school counselors Kelly
Duffy and Lauren Hallinan. In addition to the blankets, other activities included
grade-level kindness assemblies where students were recognized by their
teachers for displaying kindness; mix-it-up day at lunch where students sat with
classmates at different tables to get to know them better; themed dress-down
days; and a cookies-and-milk celebration to honor those recognized at the gradelevel kindness assemblies.
Dec. 11 was ‘Grinch Day’ at King’s Highway Elementary School, Coatesville.
Kindergarten students took part in math and literacy activities that centered
around Dr. Seuss’ book ‘How the Grinch Stole Christmas.’ Students participated
in activities that introduced them to the literary devices of similes and
metaphors; a writing activity in which they wrote letters to the Grinch, sharing
what they would like him to have for Christmas; and math activities where they
created a paper chain that alternated red and green rings to assist them in
counting down and in learning the concept of patterns. Students also completed
measurement activities using non-traditional units as they took peppermint
candies to measure a variety of objects. A variety of craft activities incorporated
all curricular areas. Kindergarten teachers Michele Ollis and Traci Tury said
‘Grinch Day’ was a ‘fun and engaging way to get our students involved in
different learning activities during the holiday season.’ The teachers said they
are ‘constantly emphasizing to their students that it is important to think of
others during this time of year, to be kind and to share happiness and good
cheer towards their friends and family members.The students’ favorite activity? It
was listening to their teachers read ‘How the Grinch Stole Christmas.’
“Where kids can be kids,
teens can talk,
and families can heal...”
Child, Adolescent & Family Counseling
Parent Support & Education
Creative and compassionate strategies addressing…
*Depression
*Stress Management
*Divorce/Stepfamily Issues
*Self-Injury
*Coping Skills
*Disordered Eating
*Relationship Problems
*Anxiety
*School Struggles
*Friendship Problems
*Co-Parenting Challenges
*Conflict Resolution
*Mood Management
*Low Self-Esteem
Call Jill today for a free consultation to discuss your needs.
(610) 564-6835
617B Swedesford Road, Malvern, PA 19355
www.jillcrawfordcounseling.com
JANUARY 2016
WEST CHESTER
KIDS 7
Engineering program
Mayor visits Penn Wood
West Chester Mayor Carolyn T. Comitta recently visited third graders at Penn
Wood Elementary School, West Chester. Comitta talked about the Borough of
West Chester, discussed voting and the election process, described a day in the
life of a mayor, shared information on local government and more. The students
asked Comitta, who is serving her second term as mayor, a number of questions
following her presentation, ranging from asking her why she ran for office to
what holiday she enjoys the most. From 1974-1985, Comitta served as a special
and gifted education teacher and curriculum specialist in the Octorara Area
School District.
Twenty students at Westtown-Thornbury Elementary School, West Chester,
recently participated in the school’s first elementary engineering program. Made
possible by a grant from Bentley Systems, the free, after-school program ran for
five weeks and was open to fifth graders. Designed to give students an
introduction to the world of engineering, the program encouraged creative
problem-solving and helped students develop new skills through a hands-on
curriculum that featured work with robotics, engineering design and civil
engineering. Students used laptops and iPads to program robots, they designed
packages that protected a potato chip mailed from Fugett Middle School to
Westtown-Thornbury Elementary School, and engineered a tool that launched
items across the classroom. The school hopes to offer the program again as
well as expand the program to other elementary schools in the district.
JOIN SCOUTING
TODAY!
ADVENTURE IS WAITING.
BUILD YOURS.
www.cccbsa.org • 610-696-2900 • Email: [email protected]
BEASCOUT.ORG
CALLING ALL BOYS IN GRADES 1-5 ... Fall sports are winding down, come join our team.
Make new friends, climb rocks, roast marshmallows, race cars and most importantly, have fun.
Call us today or visit our website to find Scouting opportunities in your community.
$(3876 )3 678++ %-*< '8.0) 7-.2,6 #0&< :.7- 485436* !&/* +5.*2)6 &2)
/ 73,*7-*5 $*7 ,3&06 &2) 0*&5 7-*1 %-*<
40&(*6 #-<6.(&00<
JANUARY 2016
BOOKS
KIDS 8
Winner
We propel the serious and nurture the novice.
Work with professionals.
SHOWS & WORKSHOPS
PROFESSIONAL YOUTH PROGRAM
CALL:
484- 995-2915
westchesterstudio.com
Tickle Tooth Dental has changed its name...
Exton Pediatric
& Adolescent Dentistry
Specializing in Kids Dentistry (ages 1-to-21)
Meet Dr. Hilda Villegas, DMD, Graduate
of UPENN Dental School, Philadelphia
• Fun atmosphere
• Friendly, Highly Skilled Dentist & Staff
• Friendly, Gentle Pediatric Dentistry
Dr. Hilda Villegas
We accept most insurance plans
including Medicaid & CHIP
Make YOUR Smile Shine at
Exton Pediatric & Adolescent Dentistry
235 S. Pottstown Pike, Exton
Fick Educational Services is devoted
to the educational needs of the
children we serve. Through
individualized learning plans, tutoring
and advocacy, we strive to ensure that
all children have access to the education
they deserve by laying the foundation
for a brighter future.
• Educational Advocacy
• Tutoring
• Social Skills
• Homeschool Evaluations and
• Curriculum Planning
• School Placement Counseling
• Friday Night “Kids Night Out”
• Summer Camp
FICK EDUCATIONAL SERVICES
17 Turner Lane, West Chester
610-457-2199
[email protected]
www.fickeducation.com
w ith Us!
ACTING & MUSICAL THEATER CLASSES
NOW ACCEPTING
NEW CLIENTS AT OUR
WEST CHESTER LOCATION
Come Hang
It’s Winter Registration Time!
610-363-8872
extonpediatricdentistry.com
Now Enrolling for WINTER
Near STAPLES in the Shoppes at Valley Forge.
15,000 feet of Fantastic Gymnastics!
Classes 18 Months to HS
Boys & Girls on all Olympic Events
Tumbling & Trampoline for Cheerleaders
Birthday Parties, Private Lessons
AfterSchool Programs, USAG Teams
Register Today for
a PREVIEW Lesson!
Call 610-983-9044
www.Aerialsgymnastics.com
238 Schuylkill Road, Phoenixville
Cindy
Theobald is a
bookseller and
buyer at the
Chester
County Book
Company,
West Goshen
Shopping
Center. A
graduate of
Cazenovia
College, she
has a degree in early childhood
education. For more information,
visit www.chestercountybooks.com.
Combat cold
weather with
good reading
By CINDY THEOBALD
Combat the cold blustery days of
January with these great books about
science and fantasy.
Picture books, ages 3-to-7 years
“The Little Snowplow,” written Lora
Koehler and illustrated by Jake Parker,
(Candlewick Press, $16.99).
The trucks at the Mighty Mountain
Road Crew come in one size. Big. So,
when the new little snowplow joins the
team, the others tell him to move aside and
leave the heavy work to them.
The little snowplow has other plans, so
he continues to exercise just in case. He
raises and lowers his plow 10 times each
night and pulls the concrete blocks to keep
fit. When the big blizzard comes, the large
plow is swamped and his driver must call
for backup. Finally, the little plow gets to
show how being small is just right, and he
turns out to be a hero who saves the town
and the great big plow.
Beginning reader, ages 5-to-7 years
“Science of Fun Stuff — The Cool Story
Behind Snow,” written by Joe Rao and
illustrated by Dagney Downey, (Simon and
Schuster, $13.99).
This ready-to-read book, written by
meteorologist Joe Rao, helps kids
understand what needs to happen to make
it snow and how snowflakes are all unique,
like fingerprints, with no two exactly alike.
Rao shows what tools meteorologists
use to predict snowstorms, and offers
interesting information about blizzards,
and the difference between all types of
precipitation, such as hail, sleet and
freezing rain.
Middle reader, ages 8-to-12 years
“My Diary from the Edge of the
World,” written by Lynn Anderson, (Simon
& Schuster, $16.99).
Gracie Lockwood is a typical girl with a
somewhat unusual family. In her world,
Sasquatches helped win the Civil War, and
there are also mermaids, dragons and Dark
Clouds that come to take your spirit.
When a Dark Cloud sets it sight on a
member of Gracie’s family, her parents
pack up the family in a Winnebago to
search for the only safe place — The
Extraordinary.
This is a wonderful story of a family’s
journey to protect those they love the most
at any cost. It’s a book filled with science,
myth, magic and the often-missed wonders
of everyday life.
JANUARY 2016
GREAT VALLEY
KIDS 9
Music honor ensembles
Great Valley High School students auditioned in the fall with musicians from
Chester, Delaware and Philadelphia counties for the Pennsylvania Music
Educators Association District 12 Chorus, Band and Orchestra Honors
Ensembles. Twenty-two Great Valley students were selected for 25 spots in the
PMEA Honors Ensembles: 12 were selected for district choir, seven for district
band and six for district orchestra. Selected for district chorus are seniors
Jordan Beck, Alexandra Keane, Erin McCarrick, Nichole Pennington and Ari
Pikounis, juniors Michaela Colahan, Ryan DeStefano, Katherine Li, Thomas Lock,
Benjamin Nurthen and Nicholas Stillwell and sophomore Maxwell Segarnick.
Selected for district band are senior Jonny Ford and Wes Maloney, juniors Kira
Ousey, John Passalis and Alexis Pidany and sophomores Hannah Atlas and Nate
White. Selected for district orchestra are seniors Evelyn Bravo and Maloney,
juniors Pidany and Jason Ren and sophomores Atlas and Counselo Le.
Sings for Dalai Lama
Tenzin Dorji, a first grade student at the K.D. Markley Elementary School, Great
Valley, was part of a Tibetan children’s group that sang a song for the Dalai Lama
at the National Constitution Center, Philadelphia, in October. The Dalai Lama
received the 2015 Liberty Medal in recognition of his advocacy for human rights
worldwide, and the children sang a song during the ceremony. His Holiness the
14th Dalai Lama, Tenzin Gyatso, is a Buddhist monk and the spiritual leader of
Tibet. Each year the Liberty Medal is presented to someone who officials at the
National Constitution Center think exudes courage and conviction and helps to
better the lives of others.
Think Like a Scientist! llc
Experimenting with Fun!
2.5-hour Weekly Interactive Science
Enrichment Classes
Tuesday and Wednesday
9-11:30 a.m. or 12:30-3 p.m.
Now offering Drop-in Wednesdays!
UPCOMING EVENTS: SATURDAY SCIENCE!
ASKNEW
ABOUT
OUR
THEMED
SPONGEBOB
BIRTHDAY
SQUAREPANTS
PARTIES!
PARTIES!
NEW
NEW
POWER
PLAY
CHOPPERS
DROP-IN
KARATE
CLASSES!
CLASS!
You can see the wonderful impact The Little Gym
can have on your child when you join us for an
introductory experience.
Discover
with
our
FREE
Introductory
Discover your
yourkids
kid'shappy
happyplace
place
with
our
three
week
Introductory
Experience
for only
$40.00 for only $40.00
Visit
or three week
Introductory
Experience
TheLittle
LittleGym
Gymof
ofExton
Exton
The
Little
The
www.TLGExtonPA.com
www.TLGExtonPA.com
www.TLGExtonPA.com
www.TLGExtonPA.com
610-363-2350
610-363-2350
610-363-2350
610-363-2350
(Children must be 5 by Sept. 1, 2015 to participate)
Jan. 9 — Simplifying Our Work! Exploring Levers,
Pulleys, Wheels and Axles, Inclined Planes & Wedges
Feb. 27 — SS: H2O
SPECIAL EVENTS WHEN THERE IS NO SCHOOL!
Jan. 18 — Architecture and Engineering,
inspired by Iggy Peck, Architect
Feb. 15 — Soaring with the Bald Eagle
(Children must be 4 by Sept. 1, 2015 to participate)
Each lesson includes science, literature, art, math, construction
& dramatic and sensory play.
Brookworth Plaza, 780 Miles Road,
Suite F, West Chester, PA 19380
www.thinklikeascientistllc.com
Find us on Facebook by searching
Think Like a Scientist! llc
[email protected] or
484-678-1602 and 484-319-8825
SATURDAY
SCIENCE!
Class meets one
Saturday per month
(9:30-11 & 12:30-3)
for elementary
students ages 5-9
Children must be 4 years of age by September 1, 2015 to participate.
DOWNINGTOWN
KIDS 10
JANUARY 2016
• State-of-the-art,
Child-Friendly Facility
• Progressive Dental
Techniques Using
Lasers and Digital
Radiography
• Counseling to Calm
Your Child’s Fears
• Convenient Hours
and Competitive Fees
• Most Major Dental
Plans Accepted
DR. JEFFREY MELINI
DR. BETHANY GRATSON
‘Operation Shoebox’
Pediatric Dentistry at Longwood
400 McFarlan Road, Suite 200
Kennett Square
Students at the Marsh Creek Sixth Grade Center, Downingtown, recently
collected candy to donate to troops serving in the armed forces via the
‘Operation Shoebox’ program. Operation Shoebox embraces a mission of
providing hands-on support for U.S. troops deployed overseas and returning
home. It is the mission of ‘Operation Shoebox’ to meet the needs of every
hero with dignity and appreciation. This first-time effort by the students was
facilitated by Kelli Divito, engineering inventions teacher, whose room served
as the drop-off center. Divito collected approximately 200 pounds of candy in
the week and a half after Halloween. The candy was shipped to ‘Operation
Shoebox’ via the U.S. Postal Service, the cost paid by an anonymous donor.
Cards, made by the students, that thanked the military personnel for their
service, were shipped with the candy. Additional candy came in after the
deadline and was donated to a local fire company and an area shelter.
www.pdatlongwood.com
610-925-5700
FOLLOW US ON FACEBOOK
CCRES is a non-profit industry leader providing educational and
behavioral health staffing services. We work in partnership with School
Districts and Intermediate Units throughout Southeastern Pennsylvania.
We seek dedicated individuals to work with children and
adolescents in schools, home, and the community.
Employee Positions:
Personal Care Assistant
Therapeutic Staff Support
Instructional Assistant
Contractor Positions:
Mobile Therapist
Behavioral Specialist
$17.00 - $19.75 per hour
$17.00 - $19.75 per hour
$16.00 per hour
$33.50 - $50.00 per hour
$38.50 - $60.00 per hour
Employee positions offer: Competitive hourly rates; Flexible schedules up
to 35 hours per week; Paid training and supervision; Travel stipend; and
403 (b) retirement plan with employer match.
Visit our website at www.ccres.org to view position descriptions
and online application. EOE
CCRES 443 Boot Road, Downingtown, PA 19335
Phone: 484-593-5040 • Fax: 484-593-5036 • www.ccres.org
‘Sock It to Us’
Each year The Family Service of Chester County’s Retired and Senior
Volunteer Program coordinates the 'Sock It to Us' program. During the month
of October, new socks are collected through its partnerships with libraries,
churches, schools and businesses. The socks are distributed to more than 20
county homeless shelters, agencies and programs that serve the needs of the
homeless and disadvantaged. Uwchlan Hills Girl Scout Troop 41291,
Downingtown, collected new socks from students and faculty to donate to the
cause. RSVP Director Leslie Stauffer discussed with the troop the importance
of volunteering. Troop 41291 thanked the Uwchlan Hills community for
supporting this important program. RSVP is the largest network of adult
volunteers in Chester County, bringing adults age 55 and older together
through a personal matching process to connect to organizations where
volunteers can apply their life experiences, skills and interests to improve
community life in the county.
JANUARY 2016
OWEN J. ROBERTS
KIDS 11
West Vincent students
celebrate ‘Hour of Code’
Students at West Vincent Elementary School, Owen J. Roberts, recently
celebrated ‘The Hour of Code.’ The Hour of Code gave all students exposure to
basic computer coding in a fun and interactive way. There were more than 100
million students across the country this year who have participated in ‘The Hour
of Code.’ Kalli Mullen, Ingrid Burger, Dante Sordilla, Jack Pederson and Isaac
Kumpf (pictured above), fifth grade students at West Vincent, became coding
experts by using code.org, and created a Googleslide presentation that they
presented to their teachers. The purpose of their presentation was to teach the
teachers the basics of coding, and the coding programs appropriate for each
grade level. ‘The Hour of Code’ was a huge success, and students are asking for
more coding time. Written by Kalli Mullen and Ingrid Burger, fifth grade students
at West Vincent Elementary School.
Nominate your most improved
student for the Keystone FCU
Shining Star
Award!
FIRST VISIT FREE FOR
CHILDREN UNDER AGE TWO
(New Patients Only. Valid for One Child per Family.)
• Caring for Infants, Children, Adolescents
• and Patients with Special Needs
• White Fillings and EZ Pedo
• White Crowns Available
• Sedation Dentistry Available
Three (3) students from each of the 12
Chester County Public School Districts
and the CCIU will win!*
Winning students will receive a $200 share certificate and
a trophy.
Teachers of winning students will receive a $200 gift card for
classroom supplies.
Nominations will be accepted between January 1 and April 1, 2016.
!" $!"% &'(!"$)*&!' )'+ *! ,-- !.* /!." '!$&')*&!' (!"$0
visit us online at www.keystonefcu.org!
Make sure your Shining Star gets recognized
this year with the Keystone FCU
Shining Star Award 2016!
* One student each from the elementary (K-5), middle (6-8), and high school (9-12) levels will
be selected from each district. In addition, Twin Valley SD entries are eligible to win.
479 Thomas Jones Way, Suite 400, Exton, Pa., 19341
Monday through Thursday 8:00-5:00 pm
Saturday 8:00-2:00 pm
New Patients Always Welcome
Emergencies Seen Daily
Financing Available
Dr. Carolyn Loughlin
is a graduate of
Georgetown University,
St. Christopher’s
Hospital for Children,
a member of the
American Academy
of Pediatric Dentistry
and mother of three.
KIDS 12
INTERMEDIATE UNIT
JANUARY 2016
Youth choir performs at the ‘UN70’ peace concert
The Chester County Youth Choir and Chorale
recently performed at the “Celebrate Peace for the
UN70” concert in Verizon Hall at the Kimmel Center
for the Performing Arts, Philadelphia.
The concert celebrated the 70th anniversary of the
United Nations. The event was sponsored by The
Harmony for Peace Foundation. This non-profit
organization, under the leadership of executive
director Tomoko Torii, seeks to promote cross-cultural
understanding through the arts, in particular music,
serving as a bridge among nations to promote mutual
respect and a common path to world peace.
The Chester County Youth Choir & Chorale
membership consist of talented vocalists in grades 6-
to-12, from districts in and surrounding Chester
County. The choir, under the direction of Carol
Weaver, shared the stage with many talented
performers.
They included the Peabody Youth Orchestra,
Baltimore; ChildrensSong of New Jersey’ violinist
Yeou-Cheng Ma and pianist Gohei Nishikawa.
The Chester County Youth Choir and Chorale
opened the UN70 concert with an arrangement and
medley of “Amazing Grace,” “Just a Single Voice” by
Sally Albrecht and John Lennon’s “Imagine.”
Soloists included Grace Eshenower, Lauren
O’Connell, Kevin Beck, Carlyn Crisi, Jason
Scansaroli, Naomi Varughese and Grace Furey and
accompanist Bella Virgilio.
The concert’s grand finale, “Mother Earth,” was a
moving performance led by Maestro Johan de Meij,
conductor and composer of the “The Lord of the
Rings” Symphony.
If you would like more information about the choirs
or to schedule an audition for either Chester County
Youth Choir & Chorale (grades 6-to-12) or Chester
County Children’s Choir (grades 3-to-5), e-mail
[email protected]. For more
information, www.sites.google.com/site/chester
countyyouthchoir or visit www.cciu.org/page/336 or
on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/Chester
CountyYouthChoir?ref=aymt_homepage_panel.
CHILDREN’S DENTAL
HEALTH ASSOCIATES P.C.
CDHA Core Values:
LOCATIONS
Surroundings — CDHA creates a
Aston
Chadds Ford
Drexel Hill
Downingtown
West Grove
fun and welcoming
environment where children
feel comfortable.
Morality — CDHA treats each
patient based on their
individual needs with
kindness and compassion.
Impartiality — CDHA believes that
every child deserves the
best possible care for their
oral health.
Learning — CDHA strives to
educate patients and
families.
Excellence — CDHA strives to
exceed expectations by
providing outstanding
service.
Safety — CDHA uses the safest
approach for treatment.
1-855-KIDSCDH
www.childrendentalhealth.com
Eric Felix, DMD; David Iglewicz, DMD;
Robyn Ivker, DMD & Associates
KENNETT
JANUARY 2016
KIDS 13
Courtyard transformed
into garden classroom
The courtyard at Greenwood
Elementary School, Kennett, has been
transformed into the “Knowledge Garden
and Courtyard Classroom.”
Grants awarded to fifth grade teacher
Erika Slowik and third grade teacher
Sarah Locke from the Lowe’s Toolbox
for Education program and the Kennett
Education Foundation, along with a lot
of sweat equity from teachers and
volunteers, made the transformation a
reality.
“It is awe inspiring to see how the
work of so many hands has turned a
nonuseable space into a beautiful
learning environment,” Slowik said. “We
couldn’t have done it without the help of
the volunteers.”
Volunteers from Longwood Gardens
designed the initial plans for the space,
and gardening guru Burt Rothenberger
helped organize the planting crew. A
team from the Brandywine Conservancy
showed the volunteers how to prep the
600 plant plugs, and a team of parent
volunteers and teachers spent the
summer months watering everything in
an effort to keep the plants alive. To help
complete the space, local Boy Scouts
built raised beds and a learning station.
“It was truly a village effort,” Locke
said.
The result is a flexible, multisensory
space that can be used for energy walks,
hands-on learning, observation and
teaching. There are stone walking paths,
raised vegetable gardens, a rain barrel,
benches for sitting and reflection, and
native perennials with labels in English
and Latin.
The learning station includes a white
board and a mosaic made by first grade
students. There are sensory pots with
plants for touching, looking and
smelling, as well as plants that attract
butterflies and a container composter.
In addition to being used for
classroom learning, Slowik and Locke
have relaunched the Earth and Garden
Club for fourth and fifth grade students.
Slowik said that in addition to teaching
the students gardening basics, the handson club will teach them about native
plants, composting and collecting
greywater (used water from bathroom
sinks, showers, tubs and washing
machines). Club members will also help
harvest vegetables from the raised beds.
“Students have loved every aspect of
the new Knowledge Garden and
Courtyard Classroom,” said Slowik. “We
couldn’t be happier with the space … It
is a great addition to the school.”
•
Mary D. Elementary School. “I have
spirit. Yes, I do. I have spirit. How about
you?”
Students at the Mary D. Lang
Third grade students (front, from left) Ella Sheehan, Deyvi Ramos and Logan
Leighton join their fifth grade friends (middle, from left) Matthew McDonald, Justin
Correa, (standing, from left) Melanie Alanis, Gabe Ortiz and Rene Rodriguez in the
‘Knowledge Garden and Courtyard Classroom’ at Greenwood Elementary School,
Kennett..
Kindergarten Center, Kennett, showed
their spirit during the first spirit
assembly recently. Not only did they
have fun dancing, singing and
celebrating the start of the year, their
mascot was unveiled — Langley the
Lion. Students were excited because they
got to vote for the mascot.
(This story was submitted for
publication by Krisp Communications,
Gilbertsville, the official communication
consultant of record for the Kennett
Consolidated School District.)
y
e
l
d
e
Sm
Orthodontics
The difference will make you smile!
Child and Adult Orthodontics
Board Certified
Invisalign Certified
We offer traditional braces
Invisalign and Invisalign Teen
Most Insurances Accepted
Flexible Payment Plans
FREE
CONSULTATION
610-269-6065
Downingtown
West
Chester
610-431-1650
Coatesville
610-380-9068
Dr. Larry has been creating beautiful smiles for over 35 years and now his
son (Dr. Chris) and daughter (Dr. Kendra) have joined the team and are
continuing the tradition. So you can be confident that when you select
Smedley Orthodontics you are choosing the best for you and your family.
www.smedleyorthodontics.com
3
CONVENIENT
LOCATIONS
UNIONVILLE-CHADDS FORD/IU
KIDS 14
JANUARY 2016
Wooden toys
Thanksgiving parade
Chorus members from the Pocopson Elementary School, Unionville-Chadds
Ford, congregate on the steps of the Philadelphia Art Museum as they wait to
perform in the 6 ABC Thanksgiving Day Parade in Philadelphia. An
approximately 1,000-member youth choir, which also included the Unionville
Elementary School chorus, is strategically positioned on the Museum of Art
steps to form an amazing design. In addition to the choir production, the entire
cast also performed in the grand finale that featured more than 2,000
performers. The 6 ABC parade is the oldest Thanksgiving parade in the United
States, dating back in 1920.
Students in the technical education department at Unionville High School
recently built about 100 wooden toy crickets that were distributed though the
U.S. Marines’ ‘Toys for Tots’ campaign to area children in need. The students,
under the tutelage of tech ed teacher Mike Berkeheiser, developed the concept
for the pull-toy with movable legs and then designed and built them. Students
sanded the wood to remove any possibility of splinters and stained the bodies
green. The Unionville High School PTO provided seed money for the project. In
another holiday endeavor, a team of Patton Middle School students recently
spent a day performing community service, packing 550 boxes with sugar, flour,
corn, green beans, oil, rice, pinto beans, gravy and cranberries. Closer to
delivery, a turkey or ham, carrots, onions, eggs, bread and fresh pears were
added to the boxes for needy families to pick up at the ‘Christmas Basket’ event
in New Garden Township. Art teacher Ann Ferron has coordinated this program
throughout the years at Patton.
TCHS students serve dinner to McDonald House guests
For Kaylee Tada, life came full circle
when she recently served dinner to
families staying at the Ronald McDonald
House in northeast Philadelphia.
Tada is a senior at the Chester County
Intermediate Unit-administered Technical
College High School, Brandywine
Campus, Downingtown, PA. She was
joined by five other SkillsUSA students
and two learning support teachers in
planning, preparing and serving dinner for
about 30 people staying at the facility.
“My dad was an oncology surgeon and
worked with families staying at the Ronald
McDonald House,” said Tada, a Devon
resident. “It’s kind of cool for me to be
doing this now.”
The Philadelphia Ronald McDonald
House supports families of seriously ill
children by providing them a place to stay
in close proximity to their hospitalized
children. Its programs include two Ronald
McDonald Houses, two Ronald McDonald
family rooms at The Children’s Hospital of
Philadelphia, a hospitality kiosk at St.
Christopher's Hospital for Children and a
Ronald McDonald Camp.
Tada said the dinner undertaking was a
component of the “American Spirit
Project,” a notebook contest documenting
SkillsUSA chapters’ community service,
patriotism and citizenship, and promotion
of career and technical education projects
that demonstrate a belief in the American
way of life and the purposes of SkillsUSA.
According to TCHS Brandywine
learning support teacher Tom Harner,
SkillsUSA is a partnership between
students, teachers and industry
representatives who work together to
ensure America has a skilled workforce.
SkillsUSA provides educational programs,
events and competitions that support career
and technical education in the classroom.
“Each year at the SkillsUSA
Pennsylvania Conference in Hershey,
students select a charity to be involved
with the next school year,” said Harner.
“They selected the Ronald McDonald
House for this (school) year. Each region
in the state has a Ronald McDonald House
to support. The students around the state
raise money and become involved in the
activities of their local Ronald McDonald
Houses.”
In addition to Tada, senior students
Alison Tokash of Bishop Shanahan,
Downingtown, Sabrina Paulino of
Coatesville, Olivia Barone of Coatesville,
Jon Chamberlain of Downingtown and
Brendan Buoni, who is homeschooled,
participated. The students are the
SkillsUSA officers at TCHS Brandywine;
Buoni serves as president. Accompanied to
Philadelphia by Harner and learning
support teacher Robert Kingdon, the
students served meatloaf, green beans,
(Continued on page 16)
2016 REGISTRATION NOW OPEN
One Night Programs
For Ages 6-13
Trained Instructors
Engaging Activities
Brandywine Learning Center, LLC
849 Newcomen Road
Chester Springs PA
610-827-5678
Quidditch
Potions
Spells
Wand Making
Dueling
Honeydukes and Zonkos
Wizard Wares
www.BrandywineLearningCenter.com
Wildfire Softball is looking for girls, ages 5-16, who want to:
• Play competitive recreation league softball
• Registration fee includes BOTH Winter Indoor Clinics
and Spring Outdoor Season
• Meet new friends! Have FUN!
www.wildfiresoftball.com
TO REGISTER OR FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE VISIT:
Questions? Call Andy Bonner: 610.761.0500 or Chuck Opperman: 610.608.3411
‘TOOTH TALK’
JANUARY 2016
KIDS 15
Christine
Ferrell, D.D.S.,
M.S., is an
orthodontist
and the owner
of West
Chester
Orthodontics.
She is a wife,
mother of
three and a fan
of all things
West Chester.
For more information, visit
wcbraces.com or visit Facebook at
WC Orthodontics.
Tickets
Start at
$15!
Restrictions, exclusions and additional charges
may apply. Subject to availability.
FEB. 17 – 21
Child must be
ready to stop
thumb sucking
By DR CHRISTINE FERRELL
#RinglingBros
Ringling.com
All trademarks shown are the property of their respective owners.
325352
Thumb sucking or finger sucking is a
tough habit to break because it is
soothing and brings great comfort to
your child. Fingers and thumbs are
attached to the body and readily
available at all times complicating the
cessation of the habit.
The intensity, frequency and duration
of the habit determines whether or not
the development of the teeth and jaws
will be affected. The time to really make
sure your child stops this habit is when
the permanent front teeth start to come
in. This is usually around age six or
seven.
If the habit is not stopped during this
time, several problems can result. The
permanent teeth may not fully grow in,
resulting in an openbite, where the upper
and lower teeth do not touch. The upper
teeth may become protruded, the lower
teeth may lean in towards the tongue and
the upper jaw can be narrowed.
There are many at-home remedies, but
first things first, your child must be
willing to stop. Otherwise, it will be a
battle you will not win, and it will
become a very stressful time for both
you and your child. My favorite
motivator is reading the book “David
Decides: No More Thumbsucking” by
Susan Heitler.
Once your child is mentally ready to
stop, then you can move on to helping
them.
Mavala Stop is a non-toxic nail polish
you can brush on fingernails that works
by giving a bitter taste when the thumb
is inserted into the mouth. Another
simple remedy is putting socks over
his/her hands and pin them to the pajama
sleeves at bedtime. Band-Aids on the
culprit thumb or finger is another quick
and easy way to remind your child to not
put their finger or thumb in his/her
mouth.
Always give lots of praise for every
day your child stops the habit. Be patient
... it takes 21 days before a broken habit
will remain broken.
If you can’t stop it on your own,
having an orthodontist intervene is the
next step. An orthodontist can come up
with a positive reinforcement plan to
break the habit or use an appliance
cemented to the teeth for the duration of
the habit. If it is stressing you and your
child, let a professional help you.
Buy Tickets:
t 7FOVF #PY 0GmDF
smile with us
New name. New look.
Same exceptional smiles by
Burkland and Ferrell Orthodontists.
No Referrals Required
Invisalign and Braces for all ages
Advanced technology including
digital impressions
Schedule your FREE initial
consultation with Dr. Ferrell at
610-918-3200 or wcbraces.com
*Actual patient
BEFORE
AFTER
440 E Marshall Street
Suite 301
West Chester, PA
AVON GROVE/TREDYFFRIN-EASTTOWN
KIDS 16
JANUARY 2016
TCHS students
serve McDonald
House guests
Safety Patrol
Program is
ready to roll
(Continued from page 14)
Matthew Eskridge, a representative
from the Mid-Atlantic AAA School
Safety Patrol, recently presented an
informational assembly on the program
for sixth grade students at the Avon
Grove Intermediate School.
During the two presentations, students
learned about leadership, teamwork,
pride and citizenship. Avon Grove
Intermediate School Safety Patrol
applications went home with students in
December.
The School Safety Patrol program will
support the school’s Olweus AntiBullying Program and the school’s
Peaceful Bus Program. Avon Grove
Intermediate School is expected to have
the program up and running this month.
Students who were interested in
becoming a member of the School
Safety Patrol were required to get two
teacher recommendations as part of the
application process.
“Many teachers have been involved in
this process as students have been
getting recommendations from both Core
and Encore teachers,” said Marsha
Flood, the sixth grade teacher leader of
the School Safety Patrol program.
“This recommendation process helps
students gain real-life experiences which
Pictured (from left) are Avon Grove Intermediate School Assistant Principal
Michael G. Garvin, students Grace Taylor and Alexandra Miller and Marsha
Flood, sixth grade teacher and School Safety Patrol lead.
are something that teachers at this school
believe strongly about,” she said.
A School Safety Patrol membership is
an honored position that millions of boys
and girls have held since the program
started around 1920.
“Safety is a top priority at Avon
Grove Intermediate School,” said Jeffrey
Detweiler, lead principal. “This program
enables students to demonstrate
leadership and good citizenship qualities
on a daily basis.”
The benefits of the program include a
spirit of volunteerism and civicmindedness with a positive collaboration
between students, parents and school.
Senior third in
international
competition
CALLIE MASLOWSKY
Callie Maslowsky, a senior at
Conestoga High School, TredyffrinEasttown, finished third in the second
round of the “BE THE ONE
International German Language
Olympics 2016 at the Goethe-Institut,
Chicago in December.
Maslowsky competed in five
language skills events — reading,
listening, speaking, writing and
presentation. The top two semi-finalists
earned a trip to the international finals
this summer in Berlin, Germany.
In addition, the students toured the
Loop and visited the Chicago
Christkindelmarket and the 3600
Chicago Observation Deck, formerly
the John Hancock Observatory, on the
94th floor. Although it was foggy and
the visibility not the best, the students
enjoyed “tilting,” the ability to extend
out and over Chicago’s famous skyline
because of the deck’s design features.
Last summer Maslowsky was
awarded an all-expense-paid study trip
to Germany as a national winner in the
2015 National German Exam for High
School Students. Nearly 21,000
students took the exam. Maslowsky
was one of 44 students selected in the
United States.
mashed potatoes, eggplant parmesan (for
vegetarians), salad and cupcakes.
“The staff at the Ronald McDonald
House were very appreciative and happy to
have us there,” Harner said. “The students
took the lead on preparing the food. We
then took a tour of the facility and
everyone was very impressed with all of
the services they offer the residents.
During the dinner the students helped
serve the food and had the opportunity to
speak with several of the people staying at
the house. Overall, it was also a rewarding
experience and everything went smoothly.”
“This was a great opportunity to serve
other people,” said Buoni, a barbering
student who upon graduation plans to
attend cosmetology school and concentrate
on the specialty of hair coloring and
eventually work in a salon. “This is a
pretty big opportunity for all of us toward
our development as people, and it’s part of
our SkillsUSA initiative.”
At the Skills USA Pennsylvania State
Conference in April, Tada was elected to
the eight-member state officer team for the
2015-16 school year. In the fall, she
worked with the team to run the Central
Region Leadership Conference in
Gettysburg. In June she’ll attend the
SkillsUSA National Conference in
Louisville, KY, to serve as a delegate in
electing the national officers and attend
leadership trainings. Serving at the state
level as “reporter,” she is responsible for
operating the social media sites for
SkillsUSA Pennsylvania.
She said the Ronald McDonald House
dinner was the community service
component of the “American Spirit
Project.” Another component is the
“Patriotism Project.” On Nov. 10 TCHS
Brandywine barbering students gave
haircuts to veterans and cosmetology
students offered hair coloring, manicures,
makeup and perms to female veterans at
the Coatesville Veterans Affairs Medical
Center for this portion of their portfolios.
The final component will be to make a
video showcasing TCHS Brandywine and
the reasons why career and technical
education is important today. Tada said she
will maintain records, take pictures,
organize a scrapbook of the events and
make a video presentation at the 2016
SkillsUSA Pennsylvania Conference.
For Tada, it’s just another feather in an
already crowded hat. She completed her
cosmetology study last year and earned her
cosmetology license in September. This
year she is studying barbering.
“My goal is to graduate high school
with a license in cosmetology and a license
in barbering,” she said. But, she doesn’t
plan on being a barber or a cosmetologist.
Tada said she plans to attend either Green
Mountain College in Poultney, VT, or the
University of Vermont where she plans to
earn a degree in chemical engineering.
“I want to design my own line of beauty
products,” she said. “I want my own line
of environmentally sustainable cosmetics.
Taking cosmetology and barbering here is
giving me a bit of prior knowledge. It also
will allow me to work while I’m in
college, giving me a way to help pay.”
KIDS 17
SPECIAL NEEDS
JANUARY 2016
SPECIAL NOTES
SPECIAL KIDS CAMP EXPO. Jan. 30 (snow date: Feb.
6). Valley Forge Educational Services, 1777 N. Valley Rd.,
Malvern. 1-4 p.m. This event is designed to connect
families to a variety of day and overnight summer camp
programs geared to the special needs community.
Free and open to the community. Community resource
organizations also will be available to provide
information regarding programs and services for children
and young adults.
FAN CLUB (Friends with Autism and other Needs).
Get-together events for spectrum kids and other kids
with special needs and their families to interact and
enjoy activities together. Patience Domowski of
Patience's Behavior Therapy will coordinate a few events
per month (usually on weekends) to go to places like
playgrounds, parks, bowling, golf, moonbounce, etc.
Great opportunity for shy kids to make friends and meet
others with similar interest as well as for parents of
special needs kids to connect while playing with their
children. Typical siblings welcome. E-mail Patience at
[email protected] for registration form. Cost
is $50/year per family; family is responsible for cost of
the activities/events if applicable. Web site: http://child
behavior.wix.com/patiencetherapy Facebook: https://
www.facebook.com/patiencetherapy.
FREE TRANSPORTATION to HEALTHCARE
APPOINTMENTS. Do you need transportation to
medical, counseling/mental health, WIC, dental, eye and
other health related appointments? Call or visit one of
these partner agencies to see if you qualify for the Ride
for Health Initiative of Southern Chester County: The
American Cancer Society, Human Services Inc., Catholic
Social Services, Kennett Area Community Service,
Chester County Community Dental, Kennett Consolidated
School District, Chester County Department of Youth and
Family, La Comunidad Hispana, Chester County Family
Literary Program, Maternal and Child Health, Consortium:
Family Center, Family Benefits & Healthy Start, Chester
County Head Start, Mission Santa Maria, Domestic
Violence Center of Chester County, Neighbors in Action,
Holcomb Behavioral Health Systems, Oxford
Neighborhood Service Center, Home of the Sparrow
and United Way of Southern Chester County.
senior citizens. TeamChildren is a local, nonprofit
organization which distributes low-cost, high-quality
refurbished computers to individuals, families and
nonprofits. The organization prides itself with ending the
digital divide and transforming the achievement gap.
Learn more at www.brillkids.com. Info: 610-666-1795.
SIGN UP for the LATINO ADVISORY BOARD
NEWSLETTERS. The Latino Advisory Board was created
to increase communication and connect existing
resources for Latinos in Chester County, while building
workforce capacity and identifying issues surrounding
mental health and substance abuse. Contact: Luis at
[email protected], or 610-388-7400.
CONFERENCES/WORKSHOPS
ADVOCACY CLINIC HOURS. Advocates meet with
parents, listen and advise on next steps. Can help with
letters and follow-up, refer parents to appropriate
resources, review IEPs and evaluations, and help parents
figure out what to ask. A consultation can serve as a first
step to getting the help you need for your child. By
appointment only. Call 610-696-8090, ext. 216, for an
appointment. Free. All welcome.
“TRANSITION PLANNING 101: A WORKSHOP FOR
PARENTS in the COMMUNITY.” Jan. 14. Valley Forge
Educational Services, 1777 N. Valley Rd., Malvern. 7 p.m.
Transition 101 is an introduction into the world of
transition, which can be daunting for parents. This
presentation will cover the legalities, how to prepare
and plan and your role as the most important member
of the team with your son or daughter. No matter your
child’s age, you cannot start the process too soon.
Presented by Jacque Murray, program supervisor,
Vanguard Transition Center, with introductory remarks
from Tim Krushinski, director, The Vanguard School. All
are welcome; admission is free. Info: 610-296-6725 or
www.vfes.net.
ONGOING TRAINING
ADHD. CHADD ADHD TRAININGS and SUPPORT.
www.chadd.net and ADHD CHADD training conferences,
magazine, parent-to-parent online/on demand classes,
support groups. www.chadd.org/Training-Events.aspx.
ASCEND EVENTS: www.ascendgroup.org/.
HEARING HELP for LOW-INCOME FAMILIES. The
Starkey Hearing Foundation’s “HEAR NOW” program
provides top-of-the-line digital hearing aids that are
customized to hearing loss. Info: 800-328-8602 or e-mail
[email protected].
PENNSYLVANIA’S YELLOW DOT PROGRAM. This
program assists citizens following a traffic crash when
they may not be able to communicate themselves.
Placing a yellow dot in your vehicle’s rear window alerts
first responders to check your glove compartment for
vital health information to ensure that you receive the
critical attention you need. For more information and to
request a kit, visit www.YellowDot.pa.gov.
REFURBISHED COMPUTERS. TeamChildren has more
than 800 functioning, low-cost refurbished computers
that need a new home. Desktops cost $60, $110 and
$160; laptops cost between $150-$225 when available.
Each computer comes loaded with incredible learning
programs. For babies, toddlers, children, adults and
AUTISM: TACA WEBINARS AVAILABLE. TACA will hold
webinars with featured physicians, researchers,
attorneys, therapists and knowledgeable providers to
help educate and empower families living with autism.
The four topics will include: educational, resources,
medical and diet and The Autism Journey by Age. Info:
www.tacanow.org/webinars/.
AUTISM ROADMAP. www.carautismroadmap.org. This
roadmap is a web site containing almost 400 articles
about Autism Spectrum Disorder across the lifespan.
Whether you are just starting out with a diagnosis or
have been living with ASD for years, there's something
for you. The roadmap also includes a searchable
resource directory with more than 1,000 listings, so you
can find therapists, support groups and other resources
in the tri-state area.
THE GOLD BOOK is AVAILABLE ONLINE.
Understanding the Office of Intellectual Disability
(Continued on page 18)
REGISTER
ONLINE FOR FREE
SCREENING OR
CLASS!
Valley Forge Educational Services prepares children and
young adults with special needs to realize their potential as
contributing members of the community.
Valley Forge Educational Services (VFES) offers a wide variety of school and
summer programs, transition skills programming and clinical-consultation
services for children and young adults, 2–21 years of age, with special needs
and learning challenges.
The Luma Center The Luma Center is home to StarPoint and StarPoint 2, The
Vanguard School’s Pre-K/K and K/1 programs. Classes are taught by a certified
special education teacher with integrated support from and collaboration with
speech-language pathologists and occupational therapists.
Summer Matters offers educational and recreational programming for young
people, 5–21 years of age, with learning challenges and special needs.
Summer Matters programs are of varying formats and lengths and build on
campers’ interests to help them succeed, learn and grow.
The Vanguard School is an Approved Private School for students, 4–18 years
of age, with exceptionalities including autism, speech-language disorders,
emotional disturbance and/or other health impairment (OHI). The school
focuses on academic, social, daily living and vocational skills development.
The Vanguard Transition Center offers career development, post secondary
education and social and daily living skills development to young adults with
special needs, 18–21 years of age.
1777 North Valley Road, Malvern, Pennsylvania 19355
610.296.6725
vfes.net
Special Kids
SUMMER
camp expo
Saturday, January 30, 2016
1:00 - 4:00 pm
Snow Date: February 6, 2016
ENRICHING LIVES
THROUGH THE ARTS!
Featuring full and partial day programs, extended school year
programs, residential camps, academic programs,
recreational and specialty camps as well as community
resources from throughout Southeastern Pennsylvania.
SERVICES OFFERED
Music Therapy Sessions
Adapted Music Lessons
Music Lessons
Music Together® Classes
ALSO OFFERING
Free of Charge to the Community!
View a sample class, parent and teacher testimonials, full schedule of classes and locations,
and sign up for our monthly email newsle!er on our website!
www.tempotherapy.com
Activities Center, Valley Forge Educational Services
1777 North Valley Road
Malvern, PA 19355
(610) 344-7030
NOW ENROLLING FOR WINTER · GIFT CERTIFICATES AVAILABLE
www.vfes.net
610.296.6725 x115
SPECIAL NEEDS
KIDS 18
(Continued from page 17)
Programs in Pennsylvania: Intellectual Disability and
Autism Services, "The Gold Book" is the revised manual
that introduces you to the intellectual disability system
and autism services. You'll learn how to register, what
the waivers are, different service models and what to do
if you have a problem. Also featured: commonly needed
forms; lists of resources, contacts and advocacy
organizations; and a glossary of terms. Also available in
Spanish. You can download the book from the
partnership web site: www.temple.edu/thetraining
partnership/pub/.
INTELLECTUAL DISABILITY. COURSES and WEBCASTS.
www.odpconsulting.net/. This web site is designed to
help self-advocates, family members, friends, providers
of service and the general public locate valuable
information about the world of intellectual disability in
Pennsylvania (ex. PUNS, Consolidated Waiver, IFSP, etc).
PARENT WORKSHOPS, WEBINARS and AUDIO
CONFERENCES. Parent Information Center of Delaware
offers workshops on a wide range of topics to help
parents and educators better understand special
education and related programs and services. For a list
of the scheduled workshops, webinars and
conferences, visit www.picofdel.org.
SECONDARY TRANSITION. Visit www.secondary
transition.org. Web site provides youth, young adults,
parents and professionals with secondary transition
resources to facilitate a young person’s progress toward
the attainment of post-secondary goals related to
education, employment and community living. It
replaces the secondary transition folders and CDs that
have gone out in the past. Parents should access this
web site for transition-related information.
SUPPORTS for CHILDREN & TEENS
ACADEMIC SUPPORT on the WEB:
www.onlinemathlearning.com — worksheets with
concepts and explanations.
www.hawaii.edu/suremath — chemistry, physics and
algebra.
www.starfall.com — excellent web site for young
(up to fourth grade) emerging readers.
www.mortgagecalculator.net/math-calculators —
calculators that calculate fun things.
www.funbrain.com — games to improve grammar
skills.
www.eduplace.com/tales — like an online Mad Libs
with reading and writing skills.
www.factmonster.com — lots of great stuff.
www.cut-the-knot.org — puzzles on tons of math
topics up to 12th grade.
www.mathgoodies.com — go to parents and find
free activities and worksheets.
www.aaamath.com
www.aaaspelling.com
www.quizlet.com: — Make tests and flashcards for
any subject.
ACTING. MOVIN’ & GROOVIN’ for PRESCHOOL and
ELEMENTARY AGES with instructor Cindy Schneider,
director, Acting Antics Inc., 3 Ravine Rd., Malvern. This is
a theater program designed for students with
developmental and/or social delays. The program
focuses on using music, movement, games and skits to
teach the youngsters how to follow directions, motor
plan and interact successfully. Activities and songs will
be showcased in a final performance for family and
friends on the last workshop day. Info: 610-942-4219, or
JANUARY 2016
www.actingantics.org.
ACTING. ACTING ANTICS YOUTH for AGES 7-to-13.
Instructor: Cindy Schneider, director, Acting Antics Inc.,
Malvern. The Youth Acting Antics program is designed to
help youngsters with higher cognition and social
difficulties learn skills about interacting with peers,
reading body language and other nonverbal cues, voice
modulation and understanding abstract language and
inferences. Actors have a great time while building their
self-esteem. The workshop will include theater games
and activities, scenes and skits with a final performance
for family and friends on the last workshop day. Info:
610-942-4219, or www.actingantics.org.
ACTING. INCLUSIVE MUSICAL THEATER for AGES 7to-16. Instructor: Cindy Schneider, director, Acting
Antics Inc., Malvern. An inclusive program where
youngsters with differences, siblings and friends will
rehearse and perform a 30-minute musical production.
Actors learn to work together, remember cues, do
movement to music and perform a finished product.
Actors participate in scene painting and making props.
Youngsters with social differences work in tandem with
neuro-typical peers to produce a finished musical play.
Info: 610-942-4219, or www.actingantics.org.
ACTING. ACTING IMPROV for TEENS and ADULTS.
Instructor: Cindy Schneider, director, Acting Antics Inc.,
Malvern. Young men and women hone their
communication and socialization skills through theater
games and improvisational activities. Actors must learn
to collaborate, cooperate and share ideas in order
to perform successfully in Improvisation. Scripted scenes
are also used to work on non-verbal and context cues
as well as social appropriate responsiveness. Individuals
build social confidence as they acquire new skills. A
showcase of skits and improvisation games will be held
on the last evening of class. Info: 610-942-4219, or
www.actingantics.org.
ACTING. ACTORS in ACTION for TEENS and ADULTS.
Instructor: Cindy Schneider, director, Acting Antics Inc.,
Malvern. This is a music and theater program designed
for teen-agers/young adults diagnosed with
developmental delays. The program focuses on using
music, movement and short skits to teach the teens how
to follow directions and interact successfully. Teens with
limited spoken language and/or reading skills will be
successful in this program. Activities, scenes and skits
will be showcased in a final performance for family and
friends on the last class day. Info: 610-942-4219. Web
site: www.actingantics.org
ACTING ANTICS. BUILDING SOCIAL SKILLS.
Instructor: Cindy Schneider, director, Acting Antics Inc.,
Malvern. Drama workshops for students with Asperger
Syndrome, non-verbal learning disorder, and/or social
cognition deficits. Teaches power body language, voice
modulation, and facial expressions. Info: 610-942-4219,
or www.actingantics.org.
ADHD CHADD TEEN SUPPORT GROUP meets the
third Thursday each month. Exton Community Baptist
Church. 7:30-8:30 p.m. Parents can stay on premises.
Facilitated by CHADD board member. Info: 610-4294060 or www.CHADD.net/222.
ART. FREE 12-WEEK ART CLASS for PEOPLE with
SPECIAL NEEDS. Wayne Art Center, 413 Maplewood
Ave., Wayne. $25/materials. Info: 610-688-3553,
www.wayneart.org, or [email protected].
(Compiled by Kim Booz, The Arc of Chester County)
Quest, located in the West Chester/Marshallton area, is a leading
provider of pediatric therapy services offered in the home,
school and community, for children with special needs.
• Special Programs include:
Home and Community-Based Programs Early Intervention,
school-based, post-surgery and hospitalization.
• Outpatient-Based Programs include:
Social skill groups, Individualized clinical treatments in therapy
rooms, and Hippotherapy, treatment with the help of a horse.
Quest Therapeutic Services is the only full-time pediatric therapy center in
Chester County specializing in Hippotherapy. Our highly qualified physical,
occupational, and speech therapists include Pediatric Clinical Specialists,
Feeding Specialists, and Hippotherapy Clinical Specialists.
H Immediate openings! We are eager to work with you and your child! H
Cost for therapy services may be covered under your medical insurance plan.
For more information, please visit our website.
461 Cann Road, West Chester • 610-692-6362 www.QuestTherapeutic.com
Quest Therapeutic is a 501(c)3 no-profit organization.
Donations, volunteers, and fund-raising opportunities are always welcome.
Elias Cramer of Kennett Square, a second grade student, works with therapist
Melissa Szakal at Theraplay Inc.’s West Chester center.
Therapy sessions working
for student with dyslexia
“It’s hard when you know your child
isn’t going to have things happen as easily
for them as it does for other kids,” said
Ethan Cramer of Kennett Square.
He was talking about his seven-year-old
son, Elias, a second grader who was
diagnosed with dyslexia earlier this year.
When Elias was in first grade, his teachers
and parents were concerned about his
reading ability.
An intelligent child, Elias was
struggling with reading and writing.
Cramer and his wife brought Elias to
Theraplay’s West Chester center where he
was evaluated by center manager Lori
Glancey. She recommended Elias start
therapy sessions twice a week to treat what
turned out to be dyslexia.
Theraplay’s staff focuses on pediatric
therapy in a fun environment. Therapists
incorporate items such as swings, scooters,
silly putty, shaving cream and toys into
everything they do. You would think this
would pose a problem when working on
something like reading and writing, right?
Wrong. Elias’ therapists use scooters for
memory games, a variety of activities to
improve his visual motor and perception
skills, and the trampoline and therapy
swing to encourage and reward his hard
work during sessions.
And, his hard work really does deserve
to be rewarded; since starting at Theraplay,
Elias has made a lot of progress. For
example, when copying something onto a
piece of paper, Elias used to make one
stroke at a time. Now he is able to copy
five words at a time. He comes home from
school or therapy and reads to his parents.
By incorporating fun into his sessions, his
therapists are helping Elias overcome his
dyslexia.
Elias said that reading and writing are
still hard, and still not his favorite things to
do (which can be said for many second
graders). However, he is able to complete
the same tasks as his peers easier than he
has in the past.
Cramer credits Theraplay, Inc. for a lot
of that. Elias gets reading support in
school and has had tutors over the summer
in addition to his sessions at Theraplay.
And, Elias’ favorite part?
“Doing fun things,” he said.
“It’s been really rewarding working
with Elias,” said Melissa Szakel, one of his
occupational therapists. “Elias is super
motivated, and his family is so supportive.
They are always looking at the positive.
And, Elias works so hard. He always goes
that extra mile.”
For more information, visit theraplayinc
.com.
©Theraplay 2015
L OC AT ED IN FR AZ ER / M AL VE RN
A CTING ANTICS
SOCIALIZATION SKILLS THROUGH THEATRE & MUSIC
* We sp ecia lize in wo rk ing w ith l ea rnin g d if fe renc es. *
We offe r a variety o f pro gram s f or
all ages, all ability levels.
i nf o@ ac ti ng an ti cs .o rg
610-942-4219
www.actingantics.org
New sessions to begin in January!
OCTORARA
JANUARY 2016
KIDS 19
Partnership working
to train ‘future heroes’
The Octorara Area Homeland Security and Protective Services Career &
Technical Education Academy has partnered with the Chester County Public
Safety Training Campus to train future heroes of Chester County. By moving the
Homeland Security and Protective Services Academy to the Octorara High
School campus, the district is now able to provide students with the state-of-theart equipment and first responder disciplines to undertake practical training for
students who want to be firefighters, emergency medical and first aid
responders, police officers and other occupations, which encompass the broad
spectrum of public safety. The Octorara Area Homeland Security and Protective
Services Career & Technical Education Academy prepares students to apply
technical knowledge and skills required to perform entry-level duties in law
enforcement, firefighting, EMT and other safety services. The program stresses
the techniques, methods and procedures specific to the areas of criminal justice
and fire protection, especially in emergency and disaster situations. In addition,
students receive training in social and psychological skills, map reading, vehicle
and equipment operations, the judicial system, pre-hospital emergency medical
care and appropriate emergency assessment, treatment and communication. The
training campus is at 137 Modena Rd., Coatesville.
CHESTER COUNTY DENTISTRY for CHILDREN
• Modern Child-Friendly Facilities
• Convenient Hours
• Competitive Fees
• Most Major Dental Plans Accepted
• Counseling to Calm Your Child’s Fears
• Progressive Dental Techniques Using Lasers
• and Digital Radiography
North Hills Medical Building
795 E. Marshall Street • Suite 100
West Chester, PA 19380
610-918-2400
Lionville Professional Center
105 Dowlin Forge Road
Exton, PA 19341
610-363-2100
JEFFREY M. MELINI, D.M.D.
Member:
American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry
American Dental Association
Pennsylvania Dental Society
www.cckidsdmd.com
VOTED “ONE OF THE TOP PEDIATRIC DENTISTS IN DELAWARE VALLEY”
BY PHILADEPHIA MAGAZINE 2012
KIDS 20
EBS CHILDREN’S INSTITUTE
JANUARY 2016
ADVERTISING SUPPLEMENT
2016 PRESCHOOL & CHILD CARE GUIDE
JANUARY 2016
PULL OUT
& SAVE
THIS HANDY
REFERENCE
GUIDE
Goshen Baptist Preschool
Goshen Baptist Preschool, 1451 West Chester Pike, West
Chester, has classes for three-to-five-year-olds, all sessions
running from 9-11:30 a.m. The school’s curriculum is aligned
with the Pennsylvania Learning Standards for Early
Childhood. An outdoor playground, indoor gym, music
classes, planned Bible curriculum and monthly chapel
enhance Goshen’s program. The Lunch Bunch program is
offered twice a week. For more information, call 610-696-3132
or visit www.goshenbaptist.org.
KIDS A1
PRESCHOOL/CHILD CARE
KIDS A2
EARLY
CARE
EDUCATION
CENTER
&
CONTACT US
! 455 Boot Road
Downingtown, PA 19335
" (484) 237-5410
# www.cciu.org/ecec
$ [email protected]
NOW ENROLLING
#(&'+ *%% #*,+$ !
() "*-)()&+*-)
The Early Care and Education Center
er
le
is dedicated to the education of the whole
child through developmentally appropriate
ate
activities and experiences. Each child is
re
encouraged to express their natural desire
for independence while experiencing
learning opportunities that support the
development of social skills, positive
ers.
relationships and respect for self and others.
Serving
INFANTS
through
PRESCHOOL
% NO REGISTRATION FEE! &
,
#"%&%%""
&("
("!#%&"%
#(%(!%"&%$(&'"&
#%%%&%)"&%'('"&
" ! #
!
!
'
% +"% !"% .!
" (!-$(&"!
JANUARY 2016
ABC EARLY LEARNING CENTER
1022 Pottstown Pike, West Chester
610-692-2451
www.abc-elc.org
Director: Tiffany Godwin
School year: Year round
Hours: Monday through Friday 7 a.m.-6
p.m.
Sessions: Child care for ages two
months-through-five years.
Program highlights: Our Christian
curriculum includes sign language,
Spanish and chapel; lesson plans are
aligned with state standards and the
interests of the children; small class sizes;
and nurturing environment in which
children can explore, learn and grow.
Philosophy: Through formal lesson
plans, manipulatives, visual mediums and
hands-on activities, ABC facilitates and
challenges each child’s curiosity and
naturally inquisitive nature. We read each
child with Godly principles to aid them in
life’s choices and day-to-day decisionmaking through songs and daily Bible
stories. ABC children will leave our care
prepared for their next phase on a
physical, mental, social and spiritual level.
•
ADVENT CHRISTIAN PRESCHOOL
1601 Green La., West Chester
610-436-0138
www.e-advent.org
[email protected]
Director: Luci Keeler
School year: September-May
Sessions: Full- and half day programs
Monday through Friday 9-noon or 9-3
p.m. for ages three-to-five years.
Program highlights: Balanced
academic curriculum, including Bible
curriculum, monthly “Chapel Chat,”
cooking, science, social studies, music,
physical education and technology
education. Developmentally appropriate
activities; updated classrooms and
programs; dedicated teachers and staff;
high standards in a nurturing
environment. Special visitors including
The Philadelphia Traveling Zoo, the local
fire department, a doctor and a dentist.
Special events such as “Trunk or Treat,”
Spring Fling Art Show and Makin' Music
concert and a chick-hatching program.
We are conveniently located on Rt. 352.
Call or e-mail to schedule a tour.
Philosophy: To develop and nurture
young children socially, cognitively and
physically in a safe and loving Christian
environment. We believe children need
to be a part of their own learning
process. Children learn at their own pace
and in various ways. Our program
integrates all learning styles with an
understanding of each child's stage in
social, cognitive and physical
development. The children have fun and
are actively engaged.
•
BRANDYWINE YMCA
CHILDCARE EARLY LEARNING CENTER
295 Hurley Rd., Coatesville
www.ymcagbw.org
Contact: Mary Emma Stewart at 610380-9622, ext. 2422.
Sessions: Full day for 6-week-through5-year-olds (year round); half-day for 2year-olds to pre-kindergarten
(September-May).
Program highlights: Keystone Starscertified; instruction through The Creative
Curriculum; Spanish and sign language
instruction; healthy snacks provided;
Handwriting Without Tears curriculum;
and weekly swim lessons for ages three
and up.
•
(Continued on page A3)
"('+"(%/&
)"# !'
"(%#%&""% +
$(+"%%&%)&
! ! ! ! ! ( ! ! $ "% "% !"% '"!
"!''
***("%#%&""
***("%#%&""
JANUARY 2016
(Continued from page A2)
BRIGHT LIGHT EARLY LEARNING CENTER
70 Senn Dr., Chester Springs
610-458-5428
www.brightlightelc.com
Owner: Nancy Gosselin
Director: Dawn Curtis
Sessions: Five days a week from 7-6 p.m.
for children six weeks old to five years.
Before- and after-school programs/
transportation for school-age children.
Summer camp for 6-to-12-year-olds.
Program highlights: Small class size;
quality and loving preschool and child care;
and creative and stimulating environment.
Philosophy: Our program is designed to
meet the social, emotional, cognitive and
physical needs of children ages six weeks to
five years. We provide an environment in
which children can develop a sense of selfworth as individuals. In this environment,
children can experience success and learn
to accept, understand and express their
own feelings and to accept and understand
the feelings of others.
•
CALVARY LUTHERAN PRESCHOOL
730 S. New St., West Chester
610-696-3427, 610-430-1502
clcwc.org
[email protected]
Director: Patti Steverman
School year: September through May
Sessions: 2 1/2s — Monday/Wednesday
and Tuesday/Thursday and optional Friday
morning; threes — Monday/Wednesday/
Friday and Tuesday/Thursday with optional
Friday morning; fours — Monday/
Wednesday/Friday morning and afternoon;
fours — science enrichment class Tuesday
or Thursday afternoon; Lunch Bunch
available for threes and fours from 11:3012:30 p.m.
Program highlights: Two experienced
PRESCHOOL/CHILD CARE
teachers in each class; convenient car line
for drop off and pick up; monthly chapel
time with pastors; new playground for
outside fun; special events, including
Halloween parade, Thanksgiving Day
celebration, Christmas program, Special
Daddy’s Day at School, Special Mother’s Day
Tea, Easter celebration, Fours End-of-theYear program and class picnics.
Philosophy: Calvary Lutheran Preschool
offers a Christian environment that is
respectful of others. Our goal is to provide
an experience that is developmentally
enriching, in a safe and nurturing
atmosphere that fosters love and sharing.
We respect each child as an individual, with
unique needs and experiences. Our
preschool is designed to allow each child
to learn, explore and grow in all area of
development: intellectual, social, physical,
emotional and spiritual.
We provide our children with a firm
social and academic foundation by helping
them to develop good self-esteem; gain
confidence in situations outside the home;
develop listening skills; learn to work and
interact with peers and adults; develop
small and large motor skills; acquire new
skills through music, art, literature and
games; and prepare emotionally and
socially for formal academic instruction.
•
CHARLESTOWN PLAYHOUSE
2478 Charlestown Rd., Phoenixville
610-933-2762
www.charlestownplayhouse.org
Directors: Faith Koons and Amy Saia,
Ed.D.
School year: September through June
with optional July camp.
Sessions: Five-day-a-week, half-day
programs for ages two years seven months
through kindergarten with an extended day
(Continued on page A4)
KIDS A3
Little Faces Childcare
Little Faces Childcare Center LLC, 426 W. Gay St., West Chester, offers
sessions Monday through Friday from 6:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. for infants six
weeks-to-14 months, toddlers from 14 months-to-36-month, preschool for
youngsters 3-to-5 years and school-age kindergarten. The school boasts
small classes and low student-teacher ratio. A nutritious breakfast, lunch and
snacks are provided. For more information, call 610-344-7785 or visit www.
littlefaceswc.com.
KIDS A4
PRESCHOOL/CHILD CARE
ST. JAMES’
PRESCHOOL
Celebrating over 40 Years
of Teaching Excellence...
• 21/2-to-5-Year-Old Programs
• Mommy & Me Programs
• Pre-K Enrichment Program
• AM & PM Sessions
• Lunch Bunch Program
• Small Class Sizes
• Parent-Teacher Organization
LIMITED OPENINGS AVAILABLE
610-269-0525
409 E. LANCASTER AVE. DOWNINGTOWN
www.stjamespreschool.com
Where Learning & Fun Go Hand-in-Hand
KIDS CENTRAL
PRESCHOOL
Getting your child started on
the right track. “It’s learning
with love and laughter.”
Nurturing curriculum
coordinating emotional,
spiritual, intellectual, social,
and physical development
Loving, Christian environment
Safe, fenced-in playground
Morning classes for 3’s & 4’s
Lunch Bunch
Monthly Enrichment Days
Central Presbyterian Church
100 W. Uwchlan Ave.,
Downingtown
(610) 269-0297
www.cpcdowningtown.org
click on ‘Kids Central’
SEPT. 2016 REGISTRATION OPENS IN FEBRUARY!
ADVENT CHRISTIAN PRESCHOOL
1601 Green Lane, West Chester, PA 19382
A safe, loving place to grow and learn!
H Half- and Full-Day Program Available
for Children 3-to-5 Years H
H Kindergarten Enrichment
from noon-3 p.m.
Registration begins August H
REGISTRATION INFORMATION: 610-436-0138
e-mail: [email protected]
WE ARE LOCATED SOUTH OF RT. 3 ON RT. 352
(Between the Chesterfield Community and the Valley Market)
(Continued from page A3)
option.
Program highlights: Situated on 2.5
wooded acres, Charlestown Playhouse
offers a play-based curriculum that fosters
the social, emotional, physical and
intellectual development of each child. As a
parent-cooperative school, “Playschool,” as
it is widely known, is a wonderful place for
parents who want to have an active role in
their child's education and development.
Our dedicated and nurturing staff includes
a certified teacher in each classroom. With
the assistance of parent helpers, teachers
are able to offer a variety of activities and
individualize their teaching to meet the
needs and interests of the children.
Philosophy: Our goal is to provide a
safe, nurturing and stimulating environment
in which young children can learn to
become creative, independent, selfexpressive and self-confident individuals.
We believe, and research confirms, that it is
through play that children learn best about
themselves and their world. For more than
75 years, children at Charlestown Playhouse
have received a quality preschool
education in the loving atmosphere for
which “Playschool” is so well known.
•
CHESTER COUNTY INTERMEDIATE UNIT
EARLY CARE and EDUCATION CENTER
455 Boot Rd., Downingtown
484-237-5410
www.cciu.org
Director: Christine Bugliani
Hours: 7:30-5:30 p.m. during the school
year; summer from 7:45-5:30 p.m.
Ages: Infants from six weeks-throughpre-kindergarten.
Miscellaneous: No registration fee.
Accepting full-time enrollments now. This is
a full-service, year-round child care site that
JANUARY 2016
LORI PETRIE’S
KINDERGARTEN
& PRE-SCHOOL
121 Manor Avenue,
Downingtown, Pa.
610-873-1113
2-Yr-Old Playgroup/2 Days a Week
3-Yr-Olds/2, 3 or 5 Days a Week
4-Yr-Olds/3 or 5 Days a Week
Full-Day Kindergarten
Extended day Lunch Program
REGISTER NOW FOR FALL 2016
State Licensed Dept. of Ed.
Certified Teachers
offers a discount to any Chester County
school district or CCIU employee.
CCIU Child Care, Coatesville
610-383-6497
Director: Heather Trotman
Hours: Monday through Friday from 7-4
p.m.; coincides with the Coatesville Area
School District calendar.
Ages: Infants from six weeks-throughpre-kindergarten.
Program highlights (for both centers):
The IU child care sites offer excellent quality
care and preschool education
opportunities. The programs are designed
with a balance between free play and
structured activities; small and large group
activities; experienced staff with
professional training in early childhood
education. The curriculum covers a wide
range of areas, including gross and fine
motor skills, language development and
reading and math readiness. Creative
movement is fostered through music,
movement and art. The center utilizes the
Pennsylvania Early Learning Standards as a
base for lesson planning and programming.
Philosophy: The Early Care and
Education Center is a program dedicated to
the education of the whole child through
developmentally appropriate activities and
experiences. Each child is encouraged to
express his/her natural desire for
independence while experiencing learning
opportunities that support the
development of social skills, positive
relationships and respect for self and
others.
Miscellaneous: Four-STAR site in
Keystone Stars Program.
•
CHILDREN'S HOUSE OF EXTON
MONTESSORI PRESCHOOL and
Royersford Baptist Church
Nursery School
452 S. Lewis RD
Royersford, PA 19468
www.rbcns.org
610-948-4584
*Providing, developmentally appropriate
programs in a stimulating, inviting environment
for over 40 years.
* All classes taught by certified, experienced
teachers for ages 2.5-5 years old.
*Older 2/Young 3’s, 3 Yr. olds, Pre-K, Pre-K+,
and Enrichment classes available. Call today!
4 Township Drive, Cheyney
610-399-6681
[email protected]
www.thornburypreschool.com
Guided Learning Through Play
in a Licensed Private School
with Certified, Caring Teachers
KINDERGARTEN
125 S. Village Ave., Exton
610-363-1446
Director: Karen Nace
School year: September to June
Ages: Two years nine months through
kindergarten.
Sessions: Morning 9-11:30 a.m.;
afternoon 12:15-2:45 p.m. (two, three, four
or five days a week); full- and half-day
kindergarten available.
Program highlights: A Montessori
curriculum of language, math, reading and
writing readiness, sensory development,
everyday life skills, art, geography and
science; a formal foreign language program
and art instruction based on the famous
artists, and children’s yoga.
Special features: Lunch Bunch, Spanish
club, summer camps, welcome picnic, field
trips, parent back-to-school night, parent
observations, parent guest readers, ice
cream social, and graduation day for prekindergarten and kindergarten students.
Philosophy: Our multi-aged classroom is
a designed “learning-by-doing”
environment, where the child’s intellectual
curiosity is stimulated by nurturing teachers
and guided by the child’s own readiness
and interest. Small student-to-teacher ratios
of 6:1 allow for direct one-on-one or small
group instruction, helping to foster and
encourage independence, concentration
and positive self-esteem. Children offer
random acts of kindness and engage in
conversation with peers, younger or older.
Teachers help instill social competence and
compassion for others. We are fully licensed
by the state of Pennsylvania and an AMS
Member.
Miscellaneous: We are celebrating more
than 40 years of Montessori education.
(Continued on page A5)
EXTON PRE-SCHOOL
(Formerly Exton Nursery School)
Serving the Community for Over 45 Years
• Experienced Teachers • Ages 2 1/2-5
• Optional Lunch Bunch offered 11:45-2:00
Call now for
additional program
& registration
information.
610-363-5668
114 E. Swedesford Rd.
Exton
Open registration for 2016-2017
begins February 1, 2016
Tana Cooper
Education Director
Karen Burkett
General Manager
PRESCHOOL/CHILD CARE
JANUARY 2016
(Continued from page A4)
CHRIST MEMORIAL LUTHERAN
SCHOOL and KINDERGARTEN
Line Road and Paoli Pike, Malvern
610-296-0650
Director: Jodie Merow
School year: September to May
Sessions: Two by Twos program for
children turning three years old from March
1 through Aug. 31 on Tuesday and Thursday
mornings; young threes — MondayWednesday and Tuesday-Thursday 9-11:30
a.m. with an Enrichment option on Friday 911:30 a.m.; regular three-year-olds —
Monday-Wednesday 9-11:30 a.m., and
Tuesday-Thursday 9-11:30 a.m. and 12:30-3
p.m, with Enrichment options on
Wednesday 12:30-3 p.m. and Friday rom 911:30 a.m.; Pre-K — Monday-WednesdayFriday 9-11:30 a.m. and Tuesday-ThursdayFriday 9-11:30 a.m. and 12:30-3 p.m. with
Enrichment available Wednesday and
Thursday 9-11:30 a.m. and Wednesday and
Friday from 12:30-3: p.m.; kindergarten
class meets Monday through Friday 9-1 p.m.
with Enrichment available Wednesday and
Friday 1-3 p.m. Stay and Play also available
on Monday, Tuesday and Thursdays from
12:30-3 p.m.
Program highlights: Christ-centered
education, developmentally appropriate,
nine-month program; warm and nurturing,
certified teachers; small class size; and
discovery-based curriculum.
Philosophy: The purpose of the Christ
Memorial Lutheran School is to foster the
competence in all areas of a preschooler’s
life by providing a stimulating Christian
atmosphere in which to grow and develop,
where God is praised and reverenced. With
the guidance of the Holy Spirit, we provide
an environment in which each child’s
growth and development can be observed
and assessed in order to identify specific
abilities and areas of additional need. As an
outreach of Christian love, we hope to
serve as a welcome center for parents,
providing resources so that the
understanding of children and the gospel
may be enhanced. All of this is done to
help children and ultimately their families
grow closer to God.
•
DILWORTHTOWN CHRISTIAN PRESCHOOL
of BETHLEHEM UNITED
METHODIST CHURCH
4 Westtown Rd., Thornton
610-459-1361
www.dilworthtownpreschool.com
Director: Karen Palaio
School year: September to May; summer
camp in June
Sessions: Morning (9-11:30 a.m.) and
afternoon (12-3 p.m.) weekday classes for
children ages two-through-five years, six
months at the start of the school year.
Scheduled classes: Toddler twos – two
days/week, threes – two or three
days/week, fours and fives – three-, four-,
or five-days/week. “Lunch Bunch” daily and
extended day options. Visit web site for
more details.
Program highlights: Degreed and
certified teachers; Spanish enrichment
classes offered for three-, four- and fiveyear-olds; Treehouse Yoga program;
enrichment activities during Lunch Bunch
include music with Makin’ Music and We
Kids Rock, simple science, art enrichment,
karate/fitness, soccer, story time and pizza
days; seasonal field trips; in-house field
trips; and assemblies offered throughout
the year. Large fenced-in playground and
spacious indoor play space. Chapel lessons
and Christian values. Pre-K Christmas musical
and end-of-the-year musical.
Philosophy: Dilworthtown Christian
(Continued on page A6)
KIDS A5
MUMS Christian Preschool
MUMS Christian Preschool, an outreach of the Marshallton United Methodist
Church, 1282 W. Strasburg Rd., West Chester, offers sessions from 9-11:30
a.m. for youngsters from three-to-five years. The school also has enrichment
days and Lunch Bunch available. With more than 20 years of combined early
childhood education experience, our teachers firmly believe that playing is
learning. Reading, writing, math and science activities are integrated
throughout the curriculum to prepare students for academic success. For
more information, call 610-696-5247 or visit www.mumspreschool.org.
REGISTRATION NOW UNDER WAY...CALL TODAY!
For
40 years
yearsthe
theChildren’s
Children’sHouse
House
Exton
For over 33
ofof
Exton
has
beenChildren’s
helping children
develop has
a love
(formerly
House of Lionville)
beenofhelping
learning.
Children’s
House
studentsChildren’s
explore
children develop
a love
of learning.
reading,
music,
math,
science,
art,
yoga
and even
House students explore reading, music, math,
foreign
language
under
the
guidance
of
science and even foreign language under the
Montessori certified teachers. Visit our website
guidance of Montessori certified teachers. Visit
for more information, or call to visit us personally.
our website for more information, or call to
visit us personally.
610-363-1446
www.CHEMontessori.com
Now
registering
Fall
2016
Fallregistration
registrationfor
inprogress.
progress.
Fall
in
PRESCHOOL/CHILD CARE
KIDS A6
Dilworthtown Christian Preschool
of
Now located at
Bethlehem United Methodist Church
4 Westtown Rd., Thornton, PA
(3 minutes from Rt. 202 & Dilworthtown Road)
• Now Enrolling
• Ages 2 to 5
• Now Enrolling • Ages 2 to 5
LargePlayground
Playground
• Lunch
•• Large
• Lunch
Bunch Bunch
•• Outstanding
Pre-K
Program
Outstanding
Pre-K
Program
•• Enrichment
&
Extended
Day Programs
Enrichment & Extended
Day
www.dilworthtownpreschool.com
Programs
610-459-1361
610-459-1361
Serving
ChildrenInin Our
Our Community
Community forFor
28 22
Years
Serving
Children
Years
(Continued from page A5)
Preschool believes in creating a caring,
warm and positive atmosphere where our
highly qualified staff members help to
bridge the gap from home to school. By
providing a stimulating environment, we
focus on developing the whole child. Our
preschool program helps children grow
socially, emotionally, intellectually and
physically. Sensory motor, perceptual and
language skills are introduced through ageappropriate materials and activities both
child-centered and teacher-directed. Based
on the theory that children learn through
play, classroom routines encourage active
involvement, meaningful experimentation
with a balance of structure and free choice.
Our healthy Christian environment provides
your child an opportunity to develop
attitudes of kindness, courtesy and
cooperation while learning to work and
play with others.
Miscellaneous: We are located three
minutes from Rt. 202 and Dilworthtown
road.
•
EXTON PRE-SCHOOL
114 E. Swedesford Rd., Exton
610-363-5668
General Manager: Karen Burkett
Education Director: Tana Cooper
School year: September through May.
Sessions: Pre-K — four-day Monday
through Thursday or five-day Monday
through Friday; three-year-olds — MondayWednesday-Friday or Monday-TuesdayWednesday-Thursday; Toddlers TuesdayThursday. All sessions 9:15-11:45 a.m.
Program highlights: Experienced
teachers, full-time aides, optional extended
lunch program daily from 11:45-2 p.m.,
four-year-old afternoon enrichment, special
monthly activities, holiday parties and
parental involvement.
Philosophy: Our goal is for each child to
develop a positive self-image, curiosity,
social awareness, kindness and respect for
others in an atmosphere of warmth and
understanding where all children are
accepted as individuals.
Miscellaneous: Exton Pre-school,
formerly Exton Nursery School, has been
serving the community for more than 45
years. Open registration for 2016-2017
begins Feb. 1.
•
FAIRVILLE FRIENDS SCHOOL
216 Pond View, Chadds Ford
610-388-1268
www.fairvillefriends.org
School year: 2015-2016 call for
availability
School year: 2016-2017
Sessions: Half-day preschool programs
on two-, three- or five-day schedules for
children 24-months-to-5 years. Full-day
kindergarten program from 8:30-3:15 p.m.
for 5- and 6-year-olds; must be five by Aug.
31, 2015. Afternoon enrichment classes in
art, science and nature, and “Fun Fridays”
for children ages 3 1/2-to-5. “On Our Way
to K” afternoon kindergarten readiness class
for children ages four and five. “Preschool
Playtime” for children 18-to 36-months who
attend with a parent or caregiver. Summer
camp offered in June and July for ages 3to-7 years.
Program highlights: Unique aspects of
Fairville’s educational program include daily
engagement in artistic endeavors, a
gardening program, outdoor learning,
vegetarian lunch and snacks prepared in
our own kitchen, and a morning meeting
for worship to share stories, songs and a
brief moment of silence.
Philosophy: Fairville Friends embraces
the Quaker vision of education — simplicity,
kindness, wisdom, caring, humility, trust,
JANUARY 2016
FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH
BUCKET PRESCHOOL
Offering Classes for Ages 18 mos. to 5 Years
Our established curriculum is based on the
Pa. Learning Standards covering all areas of development
• One- or two-hour extended day • READ literature enrichment program
• STEAM science and math enrichment program • Music, gym, library time
and mini-worship • Small class sizes with two teachers per classroom
• Convenient drop-off and pick-up
For further information, please visit our website:
www.thebucketschool.com
THE BUCKET SCHOOL at FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH
130 W. Miner St., West Chester, Pa.
610-696-0554 • [email protected]
respect for all and a deep concern for the
whole child. The school aspires to nurture
and creatively educate young children in a
home-like setting.
Miscellaneous: Fairville Friends School is
located in a charming circa 1900 farmhouse
with more than two acres of fenced play
yards, gardens and meadows. Fairville
operates in a caring relationship with
Kennett Monthly Meeting, is a member of
Friends Council on Education, and follows
guidelines for developmentally appropriate
practice established by the National
Association for the Education of Young
Children.
•
FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH
THE BUCKET SCHOOL PRESCHOOL
130 W. Miner St., West Chester
610-696-0554
www.thebucketschool.com
Director: Jennifer Drap
School year: September-May
Curriculum: Established curriculum based
on the Pennsylvania State Standards for
Preschool covering all areas of
development.
Program highlights: The Bucket School
provides small class sizes with ideal studentto-teacher ratios in a secure setting. This
enables teachers to have a powerful impact
on each child’s development by giving them
individual attention essential during their
early years. We provide a kindergarten
readiness program which provides a
smooth transition from preschool to
kindergarten.
We have implemented the use of
Handwriting Without Tears as part of our
literacy program to prep our students for
kindergarten. Each month we provide
optional enrichment classes in READ
(reading, enrichment and discovery) and
STEAM (science, technology, engineering,
arts and math) for our pre-k students. In
January, we offer READ to our three’s
classes.
Our students are very well rounded from
their experiences in the classroom as well
as being exposed to music class, organized
gym class, our lending library time and mini
worship. Children are exposed to literature
on a daily basis and learn essential skills
such as cutting, pasting, coloring, listening,
following directions, etc. to make them
successful in kindergarten.
We also believe that play is essential to a
child’s development and provide many
opportunities for structured and
unstructured play time. Children and
families are encouraged to help and be a
part of their community through various
service projects throughout the year.
Optional after-school programming: We
offer lunch bunch four days a week for an
hour along with three afternoons of
optional enrichment programming,
including “Exploration Mondays,” “Activity
Wednesdays” and “Club Fridays” featuring
Soccer Shots, Wee Workout and Makin’
Music. Family events include the annual
sports night as well as our open house and
art show.
Philosophy: Our mission is to take
advantage of the teachable moments that
happen every day by fostering the
intellectual, creative, social, emotional and
physical growth of our students. We strive
to create a safe, nurturing and
developmentally appropriate Christian
environment which fosters individual needs.
By offering an engaging curriculum, it is our
aspiration that each child will develop a
positive outlook towards school, a better
appreciation for the world around him/her,
and acquire a lifelong love of learning
during their time spent at The Bucket
(Continued on page A7)
Hopewell Christian Preschool
2016-2017
A.M. & P.M. Classes for 3*, 4 & 5 year olds
*children turning 3 by Jan. 1, 2017
Our mission is to provide a positive first school
experience that focuses on the social, physical,
emotional, cognitive and spiritual growth of children.
H Classes for 3’s, 4’s and PreK
H Hands-on, Play-based Learning in Bright, Stimulating Classrooms
H Indoor Gym H Outdoor Playground H Lunch Bunch Program
H Bible Stories, Monthly Chapel, Music Classes
Hopewell United Methodist Church
852 Hopewell Road, Downingtown
Donna Hepner, Director
[email protected] — 610-269-1545
www.hopewellumc.org
Open House: Friday, Jan. 15, 2016 from 9-11 a.m.
Registering new families for the 2016-2017 school year.
Tours and information provided. Come see us!
JANUARY 2016
PRESCHOOL/CHILD CARE
Bright Light ELC
The Bright Light Early Learning Center, 70 Senn Dr., Chester Springs, is open
five days a week from 7-6 p.m. for children six weeks-to-five years. The
school features small class sizes, a creative and stimulating environment and
before- and after-school programs. Transportation is provided for school-age
children. For more information, call 610-458-5428 or visit www.brightlightelc
.com.
(Continued from page A6)
School.
•
GOOD SAMARITAN DAY SCHOOL
Church of the Good Samaritan
212 W. Lancaster Ave., Paoli
610 644-6181
E-mail: [email protected]/
www.goodsamdayschool.org
Director: Barbara G. Condit
School year: September to May
Sessions: Toddlers (caregiver and child)
— once per week for 1 1/2 hours; all
morning classes for 2-to-5-year-olds 9-noon;
twos — two or three days a week; threes
— two-, three- or five-days a week; fours
— four- or five-days a week; transitional
kindergarten — five days a week;
kindergarten Monday-Friday from 9-1:30
p.m. Extended day to 1:30 or 3 p.m. Early
Bird available 8-9 each morning. New:
enrichment afternoon for Pre-K children
Tuesdays noon to 1:30.
Program highlights: “Gym & Music” one
or two days a week; library one day a
week; state-of-the-art playground; chapel
one day a week; transitional Pre-K;
Pennsylvania certified, experienced and
nurturing staff; mini camps; established
1955.
Philosophy: As a ministry of the Church
of the Good Samaritan, the mission of the
day school is to provide developmentally
appropriate learning experiences for each
child in a loving and nurturing Christian
environment. Children are treated as
individuals with unique personalities,
abilities and learning styles.
•
THE GODDARD SCHOOL, MARSHALLTON
630 Sugars Bridge Rd., West Chester
610-431-1330
[email protected]
goddardschool.com
OAK LANE DAY CARE at Westtown School
Oak Lane Day Care is a nonprofit Quaker child
care program located on the beautiful 600-acre
campus of Westtown School. We serve families
of Westtown's School's faculty as well as
families of the surrounding communities and
enroll children ages 6 weeks to 4 years old.
A Cooperative Child Care Program On Westtown School Campus
KIDS A7
Director: Christine McNeal
School year: Year round
Sessions: Monday through Friday from 7
a.m. to 6 p.m. Full- and part-time options;
infants through pre-kindergarten, full-day
kindergarten.
Program highlights: The Goddard School
in Marshallton is committed to providing
quality care for children ages six weeks to
six years. Our qualified, experienced
teachers enhance each child’s learning
experiences with creative and imaginative
activities that are truly engaging. Our goal is
to develop a true love of learning in all
children in a safe, nurturing and dynamic
learning environment.
Philosophy: Our FLEX curriculum allows
children to develop academic, social and
emotional skills through fun learning
experiences. Lesson plans are teacher
created in order to focus on the
developing needs of each child in the class.
Classroom activities are hands-on to allow
children opportunities to explore, create
and imagine while mastering
developmentally appropriate skills.
•
GOSHEN BAPTIST PRESCHOOL
1451 West Chester Pike, West Chester
610-696-3132
[email protected]
www.goshenbaptist.org
Director: Arlene Flye
School year: September to May
Sessions: All sessions run from 9-11:30
a.m. Tuesday-Thursday — two-day threes
(must be three by Aug. 31); MondayWednesday-Friday — three-day 3s (must be
three by Aug. 31); Monday-WednesdayFriday — three-day fours (must be four by
Aug. 31); Monday through Thursday —
four-day fours (must be four by Aug. 31);
and Monday through Thursday — PreKs
(must be five by Dec. 31).
Program highlights: Goshen Baptist
Preschool students enjoy learning through
play in bright, stimulating classrooms in
groups small enough for children to receive
individual attention. Our curriculum is
aligned with the Pennsylvania Learning
Standards for Early Childhood. An outdoor
playground, indoor gym, music classes,
planned Bible curriculum and monthly
chapel enhance our program. An extended
day Lunch Bunch program is offered twice a
week.
Philosophy: Goshen Baptist Preschool is
committed to providing a positive firstschool experience that focuses on the
social, physical, emotional, cognitive and
spiritual growth of our students while
ministering to the children, parents and
families in the West Chester community. As a
ministry of Goshen Baptist Church, we seek
to strengthen families and cultivate
friendships through Jesus Christ.
(Continued on page A8)
ENROLLING NOW FOR 2016!! CALL FOR YOUR TOUR TODAY!
For All Kindergarten and
Families with More than One Child
Registration Begins on February 11, 2016
Open Registration Begins February 17, 2016
KIDS A8
(Continued from page A7)
Miscellaneous: Registration opens in
January and is ongoing through June. The
preschool office is closed in July. Late
registrations will be accepted in August if
there are openings.
•
GREAT BEGINNINGS CHRISTIAN
PRESCHOOL and KINDERGARTEN
181 Sharp La., Exton
www.extonumc.org
610-363-0981
Director: Jill Pfendner
Sessions: 2 1/2-year-olds — one or two
days, (two hours); three-year-olds — two
or three days (2 1/2 hours); four-year-olds
— three or four days with optional
discovery day/exploration day (2 1/2
hours); kindergarten — five days (three
hours) for five- and six-year-olds with
optional extended days. Kindergarten afterschool enrichment two or three days per
week, open to local school districts. Also
available: optional Lunch Bunch and
Mommy & Me (18 months-to-3 years) class
one hour per week.
Program highlights: The school
maintains a written daily curriculum with a
variety of units of study, which always has
an underlying message of God and Jesus in
every element of learning. Incorporated in
the curriculum are time for music, art,
pastor stories, gross motor activities and
special events. The school is an outreach
program of the Exton United Methodist
Church.
Philosophy: A child's first school
experience is vitally important. It will shape
a child's approach and attitude toward
learning in his/her future school situations.
Therefore, it is most important to form a
positive self-image and high self-esteem in a
loving and caring atmosphere.
•
PRESCHOOL/CHILD CARE
GROVE PRESCHOOL
490 W. Boot Rd., West Chester
610-696-8107
www.grovechurch.org
(select Grove Preschool link)
Director: Melissa Bechtel
School year: September through May
Sessions: Two Year old class Tuesday or
Wednesday from 9-11:15 a.m. Younger
threes class Tuesday-Thursday from 9-11:25
a.m. or Monday-Wednesday from 12:302:55 p.m October through May. Three-yearold classes Monday-Wednesday or TuesdayThursday from 9-11:25 a.m. or 12:30-2:55
p.m., with optional Friday enrichment class
beginning in October. Four-year-old classes
Monday-Wednesday-Friday from 9-11:25
a.m. or 12:30-2:55 p.m., with an optional
Tuesday or Thursday enrichment class
beginning in October. Full-day, four-year-old
class Monday-Wednesday-Friday from 92:55 p.m. Five year old Pre-K program, the
gift of a year for children who turn five by
Dec. 31 and have already attended a fouryear-old program. Five year old classes
Monday-Tuesday-Wednesday-Thursday from
12:30-2:55 p.m.
Program highlights: Newly renovated
classrooms, small class size, balanced
social/readiness curriculum, nut-free
classrooms and established program with
certified teachers and experienced aides.
Lunch and Play program, available between
morning and afternoon sessions, provides a
fun extension to the child’s AM or PM day.
Philosophy: Our purpose is to provide
developmentally appropriate experiences in
a Christian environment which will enable
each child to achieve his/her full potential
as an individual and in relationships with
others.
Miscellaneous: Grove Preschool has
served the West Chester, Exton and
Downingtown communities as a ministry of
Grove United Methodist Church for the past
47 years.
•
HOPEWELL CHRISTIAN PRESCHOOL
852 Hopewell Rd., Downingtown
610-269-1545
[email protected]
Director: Donna Hepner
School year: September through May
Sessions: Check www.hopewellumc.org
for classes, which include morning sessions
for older two-, three-, four- and five-yearolds from 9-11:30 a.m. and afternoon
sessions from 12:30-3 p.m. for three-, fourand five-year-olds. Lunch Bunch from 11:3012:30 p.m. and an eight-week Lunch Bunch
that includes Spanish for preschoolers.
Program highlights: Developmentally
appropriate activities include play, large
and small motor activities, language usage,
art, music and children’s literature.
Nurturing the whole child with a monthly
theme-based curriculum, our intent is to
balance the teaching of ABCs and Bible
stories through loving teachers who care
about the hearts of children.
We enjoy in-house field trips with visits
from the East Brandywine firefighter, the
dental hygienist, Great Valley Nature Center,
our nature teacher and an Instrumental
musician. We hold weekly music classes, art
activities and a monthly chapel time. Special
events include parent’s orientation in
September, a parent’s tea in October, a
Christmas program in December, “Donuts
with Dad” in January and a closing program
in May.
Philosophy: An outreach ministry of
Hopewell United Methodist church, our
purpose is to strive to be a service to the
young children and families of the
community by sharing our love for them by
providing a Christ-centered, loving
environment where they can grow
JANUARY 2016
spiritually, physically, intellectually, socially
and emotionally. Our mission is to provide a
quality preschool program with
developmentally appropriate learning
experiences in the context of a Christian
environment.
Our qualified staff is committed to the
development of each child. We believe
young children need and desire social
interaction with peers as well as being
ready to learn academically and spiritually.
The curriculum is designed to prepare
preschoolers for kindergarten while giving
them a foundation of Christian faith that will
last a lifetime. As a non-denominational
Christian preschool, we attract families from
a wide variety of backgrounds.
•
JENNERSVILLE YMCA
CHILDCARE EARLY LEARNING CENTER
880 W. Baltimore Pike, West Grove
www.ymcagbw.org
Contact: Kelly Reuter at 610-869-9622,
ext. 2548.
Sessions: Full day for 6-week-through-5year-olds (year round); half-day for 3- and
4-year-olds; pre-kindergarten; infant and
toddler care; and introduction to preschool
for 2-year-olds, Tuesday and Thursday.
Extended day options.
Program highlights: Keystone Starscertified; instruction through The Creative
Curriculum; full-day sign language; Spanish
instruction; half-day weekly swim lessons;
music; physical education; and introduction
to preschool.
•
KENNETT SQUARE
PRESCHOOL COOPERATIVE
North Union and Fairthorn streets
Kennett Square
610-444-1553
Kennettsquarepreschool.com
(Continued on page A9)
REGISTRATION for
2016-2017 SCHOOL
YEAR BEGINS JAN. 14!
H 2-, 3- & 4-Year-Old Programs
H 5-Year-Old Pre-K Program
H Kindergarten Enrichment
Please don’t delay ... Classes fill up early!
OPEN HOUSE
Thursday, Jan. 21 • 6-7:30 pm
Please RSVP if you plan to attend!
490 W. Boot Road, West Chester
phone: 610-696-8107 • web site: www.grovechurch.org • e-mail: [email protected]
JANUARY 2016
(Continued from page A8)
Director: Jen Augustine
School year: September-May; summer
camp in June.
Sessions: Classes for three- and fouryear-olds and five-year-olds. AM and PM
sessions available.
Program highlights: Preschool gym,
music and learning stations included;
creative expression with art encouraged;
field trips; small classes, individual
attention; teachers have a minimum of a
bachelor’s degree; licensed private
preschool; staff trained in CPR; “Lunch
Bunch” available; outdoor play with bike
riding; parent participation encouraged;
and several additional enrichment classes
offered (literature, art, science, math and
cooking).
Philosophy: Our teachers create an
environment of love and interest in which
each child can grow socially, emotionally,
physically and intellectually. Each child is
encouraged to develop a sense of
independence and self-esteem.
Miscellaneous: The Kennett Square
Preschool admits students of any race,
color and national or ethnic origin.
Open houses are Wednesday, Jan. 20 from
9:30-11:30 a.m. and Monday, Feb. 1 from
9:30-11:30 a.m.
ª
KENNETT YMCA MONTESSORI
101 Race St., Kennett Square
www.ymcagbw.org/programs/montessori
Contact: Kathy Kampe at 610-444-9622,
ext. 2320
Sessions: Half- and full-day options for
18-month-to-6-year-olds. Extended hours
available.
Program highlights: Keystone Starscertified; Montessori curriculum; weekly
swim lessons, yoga and Spanish.
•
KESHER ISRAEL CONGREGATION
PRESCHOOL/KINDERGARTEN
1000 Pottstown Pike, West Chester
610-696-4457
www.kesher-israel.org
E-mail [email protected]
Director: Gail DeMarco
School year: September through June;
summer camp June and July.
Sessions: Toddler group (with adult)
Thursday 9:15-10:45 a.m.; two-year-olds
Tuesday-Thursday 9-noon; three-year-olds
Monday-Wednesday-Friday 9-noon; fouryear-olds Monday-Tuesday-WednesdayFriday 9-noon; enrichment Thursday 9-noon
for threes and fours; pre-kindergarten for
five-year-olds Monday through Friday 9noon (must be five by Dec. 31, 2015); fullday kindergarten Monday through Friday
8:45-2:45 p.m. (transportation provided to
most areas for kindergarten); extended
hours available every day until 1, 2, 3 or 4
p.m. Afternoon Connections, for ages four
and five, includes drama, art, music, yoga,
Zumba and various sports (volleyball,
soccer, basketball, gymnastics, track,
hockey and more); and Computer Tots
Friday afternoon.
Program highlights: Art, gym, drama,
science, music specialists, computers and
cooking ... all hands-on!
Philosophy: We offer a warm, nurturing
atmosphere with low student-teacher
ratios. The curriculum is guided by the
Pennsylvania State Standards and
emphasizes the development of the whole
child, fostering a positive self-concept and
exposure to the rich world of literature.
Our hands-on environment promotes
creativity and curiosity to encourage a love
of learning.
•
KIDS CENTRAL PRESCHOOL
100 W. Uwchlan Avenue, Downingtown
610-269-0297
www.cpcdowningtown.org
PRESCHOOL/CHILD CARE
(click on “Kids Central”)
Director: Robin Chiavetta
School year: September to May.
Sessions: Monday-Wednesday from 9:30
a.m. to noon for threes; MondayWednesday-Friday from 9:30 a.m. to noon
for fours. Lunch Bunch 12-1:30 p.m. the
third Wednesday of the month. Optional
enrichment days are available based on
enrollment.
Program highlights: Kids Central
provides experienced, nurturing teachers
whose interactions with each child
promote his/her best possible first school
experience. We offer an integrated
curriculum, including music and movement,
special guests, arts and crafts, hands-on
science experiences, opportunities for
creative play, sensory activities, field trips,
large muscle activities, and opportunities
for self-control with an eye toward
kindergarten to assure that each child’s
introduction to school provides both areas
to excel and learning opportunities in a
positive, loving, Christian environment.
Philosophy: Kids Central provides a
loving and caring atmosphere in which
each child is encouraged to develop as a
unique person with a positive self-image.
The school nurtures all aspects of the
child’s growth: spiritual, social, emotional,
intellectual, moral and physical. Small
classes ensure individualized attention. We
provide the early security that serves
children well as they transition from home
to school, planting the seeds for a lifelong
curiosity and love of learning. ©2002.
•
LIONVILLE COMMUNITY YMCA
CHILDCARE EARLY LEARNING CENTER
100 Devon Dr., Exton
www.ymcagbw.org
Contact: Pattie Lebresco at 610-3639622, ext. 2913.
Sessions: Full-day, year-round care for 6week-through-5-year-olds.
Program highlights: Keystone Starscertified; instruction through The Creative
Curriculum; exercise and play in indoor
gymnasiums; track and gymnastics center;
swim lessons; and Handwriting Without
Tears curriculum.
•
LITTLE FACES CHILDCARE CENTER LLC
426 W. Gay St., West Chester
610-344-7785
www.littlefaceswc.com
Contact: Tonya Walls
School year: September-June; summer
camp late June-mid August.
Sessions: Monday through Friday from
6:30 a.m.-6 p.m. for infants (full-time) six
weeks-to-14 months; toddlers from 12
months-to-36 months; preschool for threeyear-olds; pre-kindergarten for four-yearolds and before- and after-school
programs.
Program highlights: Safe, secure
environment that assists and expands a
child’s development according to his/her
individual pace and abilities. There are
small classes and low student-teacher
ratios. A nutritious breakfast, lunch and
snacks are provided daily. Future Captains
Sports Soccer program and Tree House
Yoga are included in the physical education
part of the curriculum year round. Summer
programming allows for a variety of indoor
and outdoor activities, including field trips,
sports, games, arts and crafts and more.
CCIS subsidy accepted.
Philosophy: We provide an atmosphere
where social, emotional, physical and
intellectual skills are creatively nurtured in a
setting that honors diversity and respects
individual growth.
Miscellaneous: We are three blocks from
Hillsdale Elementary School, West Chester.
•
(Continued on page A10)
KIDS A9
PRESCHOOL/CHILD CARE
KIDS A10
u QUALITY CARE
u PROFESSIONAL INSTRUCTION
u INFANTS THRU KINDERGARTEN
u HOURS 7 AM TO 6 PM
u SUMMER CAMP
u REASONABLE RATES
u FAMILY DISCOUNTS
EOCP
Enrolling Now for 2016-2017
PAOLI
WEST CHESTER
38 E. CIRCULAR AVE. (Corner of Darby & Circular)
300 S. FIVE POINTS RD. (1/2 Mi. South of Rt. 3)
610-296-9025
610-692-4155
www.showntellschool.com
“ Happy and Well Cared for Children Learn Best”
(Continued from page A9)
LORI PETRIE’S PRE-SCHOOL
and KINDERGARTEN
121 Manor Ave., Downingtown
610-873-1113
Director: Lori Petrie
School year: September to May; summer
camp June through August.
Sessions: Full-day kindergarten from 8:45
-2:45 p.m.; pre-kindergarten (will attend
kindergarten 2017-2018) — MondayWednesday-Friday 9-11:30 a.m. and
Monday through Friday 9-11:30 a.m.;
preschool (will attend kindergarten 20182019) — Tuesday-Thursday 9-11:30 a.m.
and Monday-Wednesday-Friday 9-11:30
a.m.; young threes (will attend kindergarten
2019-2020) — Tuesday and Thursday 911:30 a.m.; Play Group (two years old by
September 2016) Tuesday-Thursday 9-11:30
a.m. Lunch Bunch offered everyday.
Program highlights: Offers children the
opportunity to be with others of same age;
vocal and audio interaction between
children and teachers; gives children the
chance to explore a variety of experiences;
to learn about the world around them by
visiting with the people who are our
community leaders (policemen, firemen,
dentists, doctors, etc.); daily music classes.
Licensed by the Department of Education.
Philosophy: Our program is designed to
foster growth emotionally, socially,
intellectually and physically. By creating a
caring atmosphere with warmth and
comfort, we strive to build a positive selfimage and, thereby, a good foundation for
the child’s future growth. We endeavor to
make the transition from home to school a
positive experience for every child.
•
MAGIC MEMORIES
CHILD DEVELOPMENT CENTER
897 Valley Forge Rd., Phoenixville
UPPER OCTORARA
PRESBYTERIAN
CHURCH
PRESCHOOL
610-983-0229
[email protected]/
www.magicmemories.org/
Director: Alison Lafferty
School Year: 2016-2017
Sessions: Monday-Friday from 7-6 p.m.
Program highlights: Creative Curriculum,
Keystone STARS 4, six weeks through Pre-K,
before- and after-school up to fifth grade,
Spanish program, field trips, fresh snacks
and lunch provided, summer camp and
special events.
Philosophy: Magic Memories was
established to provide your child a loving,
caring and stimulating environment. We
provide a safe, healthy surrounding, wellbalanced meals and a concerned staff, in a
warm, trusting, home-like setting. Our
mission is to provide the emotional security,
self-esteem and social development of the
children in our care, with a strong value
system of respect, courtesy and love for
one another.
•
MESSIAH COMMUNITY PRESCHOOL
46 W. Lancaster Ave., Downingtown
610-269-4488
[email protected]
Directors: Valerie Feinstein, Bonnie
Hertzog and Suzanne Brady
School year: September to May
Sessions: Preschool-aged children 2-1/2,
3s, Young 3s and Young 4s; Pre-K-aged
children four and five (attending
kindergarten the following year); AM classes
9-noon daily — 5-day, 4-day, 3-day and 2day available; Pre-K enrichment program
Wednesday noon-3 p.m.; Lunch Bunch
program Monday-Wednesday-Friday from
noon-2 p.m.; kids sports programs Monday from 1:15-2 p.m.; summer kids
camps in June, four weeks available.
Program highlights: Music & Movement
classes (all students participate two times
Child-Centered Learning Environment • Ages 3 & 4
• Pre-K Class for 5-Yr.-Olds Mon. thru Fri.
• Morning & Afternoon Program • PA Certified Teachers
REGISTER NOW FOR FALL 2016
OPEN HOUSE: JAN. 27 FROM 10-11:30 A.M. AND 6-8 P.M.
1121 Octorara Trail, Route 10, Parkesburg
610-857-0236 • www.uopcpreschool.org
St. Matthew’s School
JANUARY 2016
Preschool and Kindergarten
Teaching From the Heart
2440 Conestoga Road, Chester Springs, PA 19425
610-458-3381 • www.stmatthews-school.org
We offer:
• Classes for two, three, four and five year olds • All-day Kindergarten program
• Kindergarten Enrichment for children in half day public school
• Individual attention and respect for each child
• A curriculum covering all areas of development while incorporating Christian values
• A nurturing environment • A hands on children’s garden
• A caring, experienced staff • A modern, state of the art facility
Please contact Sandy Elkins to receive
further information and a registration form.
monthly); monthly themes, including
science/cooking, numbers/math,
alphabet/pre-reading, colors/shapes,
art/music expression, literature/language
socialization/life skills, dramatic and
cooperative play, circle time, hands-on
learning activities/centers, snack time, child
development of self-awareness and
abilities, learning to respect self, others and
class toys/materials through gentle guidance
and role playing; field trips and community
visitors, special school and family events
including “PJ/Pancake Day,” “Breakfast with
Santa,” holiday sing-along, dad's night,
Mother's Day tea, Pre-K graduation day and
more. Class size — preschool 8-to-12 and
Pre-K classes 10-to-13; one teacher and
one teacher assistant per class.
Philosophy: Messiah Community
Preschool believes in empowering young
children with an interest driven and childcentered curriculum. We strive to create
meaningful and developmentally ageappropriate activities that support a child's
intellectual, emotional and social
development. We provide learning with a
creative, hands-on curriculum in the
classroom that provides opportunities for
each child to learn and grow.
•
MUMs CHRISTIAN PRESCHOOL
MARSHALLTON UNITED
METHODIST CHURCH
1282 W. Strasburg Rd., West Chester
610-696-5247
www.mumspreschool.org
School year: September to May.
Sessions: Tuesday-Thursday 9-11:30 a.m.
for three-year-olds and young-threes;
Tuesday-Wednesday-Thursday 9-11:30 a.m.
for four- and five-year-olds. Enrichment days
available from 9-11:30 a.m. Lunch Bunch
available on Tuesdays until 1 p.m.
Program highlights: Located in the
village of Marshallton, the MUMC Christian
Education building provides a cheerful,
historic and comfortable setting for
classrooms and play. With more than 20
years of combined early childhood
education experience, our teachers firmly
believe that playing is learning. Reading,
writing, math and science activities are
integrated throughout the curriculum to
prepare students for academic success. Visit
our web site or call to schedule a tour.
Mission: We believe that every child is a
precious gift from God. We strive to model
Christian values, teach with enthusiasm and
encourage good manners. Come, play, learn
and grow with us.
•
OAK LANE DAY CARE
215 Friends Meeting La., West Chester
610-399-7575
[email protected]
oaklanedaycare.org
Director: Mary Catherine Garofalo
School year: Open 12 months of the
year.
Sessions: Infants through four year olds.
Oak Lane offers anywhere from 2-to-5 days
in a combination of half and full days.
Program highlights: Oak Lane Day Care is
an independent, non-profit, Quaker child
care program on the Westtown School
campus to serve the families of Westtown
School staff and the surrounding
community.
Philosophy: Oak Lane places emphasis
on social learning in an environment that
promotes development of the physical,
cognitive and emotional domains. Children
are nurtured in a manner consistent with
the beliefs of Friends’ education,
demonstrating cooperation, respect,
support and care for the individual and
community. The small size of Oak Lane
(Continued on page A11)
Kennett Square Preschool Cooperative
...A unique licensed preschool taught by certified teachers
• Now accepting registration for 3 and 4 year old
• classes as well as 5 year old pre-K
• Morning and afternoon sessions
• Preschool physical education and music education
• Soccer, Art, Science, Math & Cooking classes offered
• Lunch bunch program
OPENINGS STILL AVAILABLE!
Located in The Church of the Advent
Union and Fairthorn Roads, Kennett Square • 610-444-1553
Visit us at our website: Kennettsquarepreschool.com
The Kennett Square Preschool admits students of any race, color, and national or ethnic origin.
PRESCHOOL/CHILD CARE
JANUARY 2016
(Continued from page A10)
enables the faculty to meet the individual
needs of each child and her/his family.
•
OCTORARA YMCA PROGRAM CENTER
CHILDCARE EARLY LEARNING CENTER
104 Highland Rd., Suite 1, Atglen
www.ymcagbw.org
Contact: Janet Kabakjian at 610-5939622, ext. 2701.
Sessions: Full day for 2-to-5-year-olds
(pre-kindergarten) from 7-6 p.m.
(enrichment included); half-day for 2-to-5year-olds (pre-kindergarten) from 9-11:30
a.m. (enrichment included); nurturing care
for 6-week-through-2-year-olds.
Program highlights: Keystone Starscertified; instruction through The Creative
Curriculum.
•
OSCAR LASKO YMCA CHILDCARE CENTER,
YMCA KINDERGARTEN ACADEMY and
CHILDCARE EARLY LEARNING CENTER
1 E. Chestnut St., West Chester
www.ymcagbw.org/programs/kindergarten
Contact: Franchesca Short at 610-6969622, ext 2809.
Sessions: Full-day, private academic
kindergarten, licensed through the
Pennsylvania Department of Education;
full-day, five-day preschool for 3-year-olds;
full-day, five-day pre-kindergarten for 4year-olds; infant and toddler care; statelicensed.
Kindergarten highlights: Harcourt
Houghton Mifflin Math and Language Arts
curriculum; Scholastic Let's Find Out with
Science Spin; before- and after-school
care available.
Program highlights: Exercise and play in
the indoor gymnasiums; track and
gymnastics center; swim lessons;
Handwriting Without Tears curriculum;
Spanish; and music instruction for
kindergarten and pre-K.
•
PAOLI METHODIST NURSERY SCHOOL
81 Devon Rd., Paoli
610-644-5576
E-mail: [email protected]
Website: www.paolimethodist.org
Director: Susan Daylida
School year: September-May
Sessions: Two-day classes, Tuesday and
Thursday, ages 2-3; three-day classes,
Monday-Wednesday-Friday, age three;
four-day class, Monday-Thursday, age four;
five-day classes, Monday-Friday, age four;
hours — 9-noon; Lunch and Play — noon3 p.m. Weekly Music and Kids In Motion
classes.
Program highlights: The purpose of
PMNS is to foster the development of a
child emotionally, socially, mentally and
physically, as preparation for his/her further
educational career, and to provide this
learning experience within an environment
governed by Christian principles.
Curriculum includes chapel,
introduction to basic art forms and
implements; exposure to and participation
in a variety of musical experiences; preschool exercise and motor development;
space and number concepts, basic color
relationships; introduction to the alphabet
and reading readiness skills; development
of fine motor skills; social/emotional
development, library and dramatic play.
Special events include a Halloween
parade, “Bring Your Dad to School Day,”
“Bring Your Mom to School Day,” Easter
egg hunt, “Spring Sing,” “Pajama Day,” Art
Goes to School, Little Zoo On Wheels,
puppet shows and class parties.
•
PHOENIXVILLE AREA SCHOOL DISTRICT
INCLUSIVE PRE-SCHOOL PROGRAM
386 City Line Ave., Phoenixville
484-237-5183
E-mail/web site: www.pasd.com
Director: Terry Stewart
School Year: 2015-2016
Sessions: Two sessions — MondayThursday from 8:45-11:30 a.m. and 12:403:25 p.m.
Ages: From 3-to-5 years.
Program highlights: An inclusive
environment comprised of 50 percent
students identified with special needs and
50 percent of their typically developing
peers. Curriculum follows Pennsylvania
state standards with a research-based
early childhood curriculum, including
Creative Curriculum, Promoting Alternative
Thinking Strategies, and Handwriting
Without Tears. Individualized instruction
and related services in an integrated
setting. Collaboration with Phoenixville
Area High School’s Early Childhood
Program provides additional support.
KIDS A11
CCIU Child Care
The Chester County Intermediate Unit Early Care and Education Center has
two locations — Downingtown and Coatesville — that serve infants through
pre-kindergarten. The programs are designed with a balance between free
play and structured activities and small and large group activities. The staff is
experienced with professional training in early childhood education. The
curriculum covers a wide range of areas, including gross and fine motor
skills, language development and reading and math readiness. For more
information, call the Downingtown center at 484-237-5410 or the Coatesville
center at 610-383-6497.
Philosophy: To provide opportunities
for children to develop into confident,
competent adults in all four growth areas
— emotional, social, intellectual and
physical. All students will experience the
success that is essential in building selfesteem, gaining a positive attitude toward
learning and developing as independent
learners.
•
ROYERSFORD BAPTIST CHURCH
NURSERY SCHOOL
452 S. Lewis Rd, Royersford
610-948-4584
E-mail: [email protected]
Web site: www.rbcns.org
Director: Kristin Christopher
School year: September through May
Sessions: Older twos/young threes class
(Continued on page A12)
MUMs Chris•an Preschool
…located in the village of Marshallton
CLASSES FOR 3, 4 & EARLY 5 YEAR OLDS
A Non-Profit Parent
Co-op Preschool
Now enrolling for Fall 2016
Programs for 2-Year-Olds
through Kindergarten
Afternoon Enrichment
for Kindergartners
OFFERED 2, 3 OR 5 DAYS A WEEK
LUNCH BUNCH & 4 YEAR OLD ENRICHMENT DAYS AVAILABLE
We strive to model Christian values,
teach with enthusiasm, and
encourage positive social interaction
while preparing our students for
academic success!
www.mumspreschool.org
610-696-5247
An outreach project of the Marshallton United Methodist Church
PRESCHOOL/CHILD CARE
KIDS A12
A Non-Profit
Cooperative Preschool
and Kindergarten
Since 1936
2478 Charlestown Road,
Phoenixville, PA 19460
610-933-2762
www.charlestownplayhouse.org
A Licensed Private
Academic School Offering:
• Certified Teachers
• Five Day Program
• Beautiful Outdoor
Playground
• Summer Camp
~ Where Play is the Work
that Children Do ~
(Continued from page A11)
meets Tuesday-Thursday from 9-11:30 a.m.;
three-year-old class meets MondayWednesday-Friday from 9-11:30 a.m.; Pre-K
meets Monday-Wednesday-Friday from 911:30 a.m.; Pre-K+ meets MondayWednesday-Friday from 12:30-3 p.m;
enrichment class (for students in Pre-K or
Pre-K+) meets Tuesday-Thursday from 911:30 a.m.
Program highlights: The Royersford
Baptist Church Nursery School offers a
stimulating program with active learning in
an inviting environment. A developmentally
appropriate curriculum is presented for
each grade level. It is the goal of the school
to provide a readiness program to prepare
the children for success in kindergarten.
Each class is taught by certified teachers,
and class size is limited to maintain a low
student-teacher ratio.
Philosophy: The Royersford Baptist
Church Nursery School accepts as its
responsibility the task of encouraging young
children to develop their full God-given
potential to become responsible, caring,
creative, spontaneous, happy and
independent human beings. We recognize
this as being a rather ambitious
undertaking, but we accept it, knowing fullwell that children's attitudes about
themselves, about others, and about their
world are well formed in their first five
years.
With mutual respect and affection, a
child grows physically, mentally, socially and
emotionally in the Royersford Baptist Church
Nursery School and is encouraged to
become self-disciplined and self-sufficient.
•
SHOW ‘N TELL NURSERY SCHOOL
www.showntellschool.com
300 S. Five Points Rd., West Chester
610-692-4155
Director: Tyler Miller
3(78/(22954
6(
2,(7404. -57 -:4!
2,(7404. -57 20-,!
• Infant, Toddler and Preschool
• Programs
• Full-Day Kindergarten
• Full- and Part-time Programs
• Experienced Degreed Teachers
Contact us today for
additional program
information and
enrollment specials
630 Sugars Bridge Road
West Chester
610-431-1330
[email protected]
goddardschool.com
38 E. Circular Ave., Paoli
610-296-9025
Director: Liz Crouthamel
School year: Year round with summer
camp program.
Sessions: Open 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. Fiveday, three-day and two-day programs for
infants through kindergarten; before- and
after- school care available.
Program highlights: State licensed,
certified teachers, safe, large grass
playground, arts and crafts, computers,
small classes and family participation.
Philosophy: To provide a safe
environment where small children are
encouraged to learn through play. Our
preschool and kindergarten classes prepare
your children for elementary school in a
home-like atmosphere which is still so
important for this very young age.
•
ST. JAMES PRESCHOOL
409 E. Lancaster Ave., Downingtown
610-269-0525
Directors: Suzanne Diodato and
Johanna Uggla
School year: September to May and
summer program.
Sessions: Two- and three-day programs,
mornings 9-11:30 a.m. for preschoolers 2
1/2-to-five-years old, and 12:30-3 p.m.
Monday-Wednesday-Friday for three-, fourand five-year-olds; five-day a.m. Pre-K
program. “My Time” programs for 2 1/2- to 3
1/2-year-olds. “Toddler Talk” for 18-to-30months with mom.
Program highlights: Traditional
preschool programs, Pre-K enrichment
program, Mommy & Me program, certified
teachers, low student-to-teacher ratio,
active parent/teacher organization, field
trips, fenced-in playground, and family fun
events. Serving the community since 1965.
Philosophy: The preschool years afford
an important opportunity to provide
developmental learning experiences for
children. Our program provides an
environment that encourages social,
emotional and intellectual growth. Our
classrooms are relaxed but well supervised.
In a warm and gentle atmosphere, we help
each child make the transition from home
to a school environment. Our ultimate goal
is to encourage a strong sense of selfesteem in each child.
•
ST. MATTHEW’S SCHOOL
PRESCHOOL and KINDERGARTEN
2440 Conestoga Rd., Chester Springs
610-458-3381
www.stmatthews-school.org
Director: Sandy Elkins
School year: September to June
Sessions: Two-year-olds — MondayWednesday or Tuesday-Thursday 9-11:30
a.m.; three-year-olds — MondayWednesday-Friday or Tuesday-Thursday 911:30 a.m. or 12:30-3 p.m.; four-year-olds
— Monday-Wednesday-Friday and Monday
though Thursday 9-11:30 a.m. or 12:30-3
p.m.; five-year-olds — Monday through
Friday 12:30-3 p.m.; four-year-old
enrichment is offered one additional day
per week; and full-day kindergarten 9-3
p.m. daily with busing available. AM and
PM Kindergarten Enrichment for children
who attend a half-day public school
program.
Program highlights: Individual attention
and respect for each child; a curriculum
covering all areas of development while
allowing plenty of room for children to
explore and play; a nurturing, caring
environment; a hands-on children’s garden;
and a professional, experienced staff.
Philosophy: Our goal is to provide
children with a school experience that is
developmentally enriching while being safe
and nurturing in a Christian environment.
•
ST. PAUL’S PRESCHOOL
104 S. Village Ave., Exton (Lionville)
610-594-9393
[email protected]
www.stpaulslionville.org/st-paulspreschool.html
Director: Cari Kramer
School year: September through May.
Sessions: New full-day kindergarten from
9-3 p.m.; Monday through Friday 9-to-noon
for five-year-olds; Monday, Wednesday and
Friday from 9-to-noon for four-year-olds;
Tuesday and Thursday from 9-to-noon for
three-year-olds; and Monday and
Wednesday from 9-11 a.m. for two-yearolds. Visit www.stpaulslionville.org/st-paulspreschool.html for details.
Program highlights: Established in 1993,
St. Paul’s Preschool serves Lionville, Exton,
Downingtown and surrounding communities
as a preschool program with a Christian
emphasis, small class sizes and a terrific
staff. We have certified teachers using the
Handwriting Without Tears© curriculum,
weekly themes and centers, Lunch Bunch,
enrichment program, arts and crafts, music
and movement class, 1,800-book library,
Bible stories and a camera-equipped
security system. Special five-day program for
fours and fives who will go to kindergarten
next year. New full-day kindergarten that
meets state curriculum guidelines.
Philosophy: We strive to provide a
quality education in a nurturing Christian
environment which will foster each child’s
social, emotional, physical and spiritual
growth. Emphasis is placed on active
learning through play to enhance cognitive
development.
Miscellaneous: Visit our Facebook page
at www.facebook.com/stpaulspreschool to
see activities and what parents have to say
(Continued on page A13)
JANUARY 2016
Located at
Trinity AG Church
1022 Pottstown Pike
West Chester
610-692-2451
www.abc-elc.org
Now Enrolling!
• State Licensed
• Small Class Sizes
• Degreed Teachers
• Affordable Rates
• Programs for Children Ages
2 Months to 5 Years
• Subsidized Child Care Accepted
Now Enrolling for Trinity’s Summer
Enrichment Camps 2016 for
Kindergarten thru 6th Grade
We offer a nurturing environment for
kids to explore, develop and PLAY!
Enrollment is open to the community.
We welcome you to join ours!
Celebrating 15 years!
KEYSTONE STAR
LEVEL 2 PROGRAM
Certified Private Academic School
Established 1955
Young twos and two year olds
Young threes and three year olds
Young fours and Pre-Kindergarten
Transitional Kindergarten
Kindergarten (9:00 am-1:30 pm)
PA Certified Staff
Library, Gym and Music Classes
State of the Art Playground
Chapel • Godly Play
Early Bird • Lunch Bunch
Extended Day • Toddler/Parent Class
Call for more information or a tour.
212 West Lancaster Ave.
Paoli, PA 19301
610-644-6181
www.goodsamdayschool.org
PRESCHOOL/CHILD CARE
JANUARY 2016
(Continued from page A12)
(no Facebook account required).
•
STEP BY STEP
MONTESSORI PRESCHOOL, LLC.
122 W. Pennsylvania Ave., Downingtown
610-269-5010
www.stepbystepmontessori0122.com
Owner/Director: Sarah Proskine
Sessions: Half-day 8:30-12:30 p.m.; full
day 7:30-4 p.m; extended day 7:30-5:30
p.m.; and summer camp June 8- Aug. 28.
Program highlights: For 1-2 1/2-yearolds, the main focus is to supply the child
with love and respect so that he/she will
form a true feeling of trust in the adults
who care for them. As the child begins to
grow, his/her environment takes on more
meaning. This environment will be prepared
to foster hands-on experience in the form
of practical life, sensorial and language
activities. This environment will develop a
child from the dependent stage of early
toddler into an independent, older toddler
full of curiosity and inquisitiveness for the
world around them. Small class size with a
1:5 teacher/student ratio.
The pre-primary (2 1/2-to-3 1/2 years)
program expands on the learning
foundation established in the toddler
program. It is at this point in a child’s
development that seemingly undirected
experimentation and interaction with other
children and the environment begins to
take form. To support continuous growth
during this next level of maturation, we
introduce more routine and structure to
the activities and daily schedule of the
beginner program. With a carefully planned
curriculum, your child will experience work
in all segments of the Montessori program.
These will include practical life, sensorial,
language, math, botany and culture.
The primary program (3 1/2-to-5 years) is
the peak period for social, emotional and
academic growth. Your child will work in
the hands-on areas of practical life,
sensorial development, mathematical
concepts, language, science, geography
and handwriting. Each area has materials
ranging in complexity from beginning-toadvanced skills, so that each student may
progress in these areas according to
individual capabilities and maturity levels.
Mission/philosophy: Step By Step
Montessori Preschool embraces the
Montessori Method with respect for the
children as individuals. Our programs are
rooted in the philosophy set forth by Maria
Montessori. The children explore a
“prepared environment” equipped with
beautiful Montessori materials and activities
designed to meet their individual needs.
This environment will enhance the children’s
true love for learning.
Miscellaneous: Bright, spacious rooms,
outdoor play areas, Montessori-certified
teachers and director/owner, easy access to
major thoroughfares and public
transportation.
•
STARPOINT — PreK/K program
STARPOINT 2 — K/K-1 program
1777 N. Valley Rd., Malvern
610-296-6725, ext. 128
www.vanguardschool-pa.org
Director: Timothy Krushinski
School year: Rolling admissions
Program highlights: Licensed through
the Pennsylvania Department of Education.
The programs were developed by a team of
educators, occupational therapists and
speech-language pathologists who have
worked in academic, therapeutic and
clinical settings. They have strong
backgrounds and immense experience
working with young children with
developmental and learning challenges,
furthering their growth and promoting their
ability to succeed socially and academically.
These programs embrace the concept
that each child learns differently and
recognize each child’s abilities while
supporting his/her academic and
therapeutic needs. StarPoint’s teaching
methods are grounded in childdevelopment principles set forth by the
National Association for the Education of
Young Children and aligned with
Pennsylvania Core Standards. Both programs
focus on developing the core areas of early
literacy and early numeracy as well as selfregulation, executive function and social
interaction skills — strengths needed to
transition into other learning environments.
StarPoint is a comprehensive, half-day
program with a curriculum that incorporates
the Nemours® BrightStart! programs for
early literacy, Growing with Mathematics
and Handwriting Without Tears®. Social
skills development, art, music, science,
technology and outdoor learning are
Step By Step
Montessori Preschool
H Montessori Curriculum
H PA Licensed Preschool
H Extended hours
H Full or Part Time Available
H Summer Camp
122 W. Pennsylvania Ave., Downingtown
610-269-5010
www.stepbystepmontessori0122.com
H REGISTER NOW for the 2016-2017 SCHOOL YEAR H
Paoli Methodist Nursery School
81 Devon Road, Paoli, PA 19301 • 610-644-5576
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.paolimethodist.org
“Like” us on Facebook!
Ages 2 years through Pre-K
KIDS A13
Grove Preschool
Grove Preschool, 490 W. Boot Rd., West Chester, has morning and afternoon
sessions for children ages two-through-five years. The school has a full-day,
four-year-old program Monday-Wednesday-Friday from 9-2:55 p.m., and a fiveyear-old Pre-K program for students who have already attended a four-yeraold program. The school features small class sizes, a balanced
social/readiness curriculum, nut-free classrooms and an established program
with certified teachers and experienced aides. Lunch and Play is available
between the morning and afternoon classes. Pictured above are students in
Sharman Ludwick and Carol Griese’s four-year-old at the conclusion of their
Thanksgiving food drive. Grove students collected food items for donation to
the Lord’s Pantry, Downingtown. For more information, call 610-696-8107 or
visit www.grovechurch.org.
included in the daily schedule. Twice a
week, students have 60 minutes of group
occupational therapy and 60 minutes of
group speech-language therapy.
StarPoint 2 is a full-day program. The goal
is to provide a positive classroom
experience for children who would benefit
from an alternative solution to traditional,
larger classes to develop the foundational
skills needed to jump-start his/her
education. Staff employ a strengths-based
approach, recognizing and teaching to the
specific abilities and needs of each child.
StarPoint 2 curriculum incorporates the
Harcourt StoryTown Intervention reading
curriculum, Saxon Math, FOSS Science,
TimeLinks Social Studies, Harcourt Health
and Fitness and CEC Life Centered
Education and Handwriting Without Tears®.
(Continued on page A14)
Great Beginnings Christian
Preschool and Kindergarten
Celebrating our 29th year!
Ministry of the Exton United Methodist Church
181 Sharp Lane, Exton, PA 19341
www.extonumc.org
Registration for fall 2016
begins this month!
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
AM & PM classes
2 1/2-year-olds through Kindergarten
Experienced staff
Bible Lunch Bunch available
Kindergarten 3 day after school
program, open to all local schools
Mommy & Me program for 18 mos.3 yrs. begins January 25 for 6 weeks
Open House & Registration for New Students
Thursday, January 14th, 9:30 a.m.
For a tour, please contact Jill Pfendner, Director
610-363-0981 or email: [email protected]
PRESCHOOL/CHILD CARE
KIDS A14
PHOENIXVILLE AREA SCHOOL DISTRICT
INCLUSIVE PRE-SCHOOL PROGRAM
Educational curriculum designed to meet needs of all children,
ages 3-to-5, and prepare students for kindergarten entry.
Two Locations: Phoenixville
Area High School AND Phoenixville
Kindergarten Center
Two sessions: 8:45-11:30 AM
and 12:40-3:25 PM
Tuition is $100 per month based on a
10-month schedule. Scholarships available.
For more information,
call 484-237-5183
www.pasd.com
(Continued from page A13)
Twice a week, StarPoint students have 45
minutes of group occupational therapy
and 45 minutes of group speech-language
therapy, as well as the opportunity to
receive individual occupational, physical
and/or speech-language therapy as
required by each child’s Individualized
Education Plan.
The students also regularly attend
physical education, health, music, art,
library, guidance and computer class,
social skills development, science, social
studies and outdoor learning.
•
THORNBURY PRESCHOOL
4 Township Dr., Cheyney
610-399-6681
www.thornburypreschool.com
[email protected]
Director: Chrissy Kirkland
Sessions: Three- and four-year-olds —
Tuesday and Thursday or Tuesday,
Wednesday and Thursday from 9:30-noon;
four- and five-year-olds — Monday,
Wednesday and Friday or Monday,
Tuesday, Wednesday and & Friday from
9:30-noon. Extended day available
Monday through Friday from noon-2 p.m.
Program highlights: Our curriculum is
aligned with the Pennsylvania Learning
Standards for Early Childhood. We have a
student/teacher ratio of 7:1 and children
learn through play as a whole group, in
small groups and individually. Students are
conveniently escorted to and from their
vehicles at arrival and departure. We have
a large fenced-in playground and gated
covered back porch for fun, outdoor
learning and play. A monthly newsletter
and calendar is provided and various
opportunities are available for family
involvement.
Philosophy: Our program is learning
through play oriented, balancing
unplanned and planned learning
experiences guided by caring, certified
teachers. We focus on preparedness for
kindergarten and socialization while
promoting self-confidence, creativity and
the ability to get along with others.
•
UPPER MAIN LINE YMCA
CHILDCARE EARLY LEARNING CENTER
1416 Berwyn-Paoli Road, Berwyn
www.ymcagbw.org
Contact: Amy Nangle at 610-647-9622,
ext 2007.
Sessions: Full- and half-day preschool
offered year-round for 6-week-through-5year-olds.
Program highlights: Keystone Starscertified; instruction through The Creative
Curriculum.
Miscellaneous: Age-appropriate lessons
and activities build confidence and foster
a love of learning.
•
UPPER OCTORARA PRESBYTERIAN
CHURCH PRESCHOOL
1121 Octorara Trail, Parkesburg
610-857-0236
www.uopcpreschool.org
Director: Patty Andrey
School year: September to May
Sessions: Pre-K (5-year-olds) program
Monday through Friday from 9:30-noon; 4year-old program Monday-WednesdayFriday or Monday through Thursday
program from 9:30-noon; 3-year-old
program Tuesday-Thursday from 9:30-noon
and “Time for Twos” class Fridays 9:4510:45 a.m.
Program highlights: For more than 20
years, Upper Octorara Presbyterian Church
Preschool has been serving the
Parkesburg, Coatesville and surrounding
communities. Christian, child-centered
WHITELAND MONTESSORI SCHOOL
PRESCHOOL • KINDERGARTEN
Programs Available:
2 day/3 day/4 day/5 day
(Half day: 8:50-11:20 am)
(Full day: 8:30-3 pm)
Lunch Bunch
11:30-12:20 pm
Located in St. Paul’s Episcopal Church
1101 East Lincoln Highway (Rt. 30), Exton, PA 19341
Convenient access to/from Rt. 202 (Frazer exit Rt. 30)
call us at 610-594-4727 • www.whitelandmontessori.com
Information: e-mail [email protected]
JANUARY 2016
KESHER ISRAEL PRESCHOOL / KINDERGARTEN
1000 Pottstown Pike, West Chester, PA 19380
610-696-4457
* ENROLL NOW for 2016-2017!
* EXTENDED HOURS from 8:00 until 4:00
Full Day Kindergarten
Two, Three & Four Year-Old Program, Pre-Kindergarten
Toddler Group (with adult ) ~ Enrichment ~ Summer Camp
• Our Emergent Curriculum, guided through the PA State Standards, encourages creativity
• through literature, music, art, science & play.
• Each child is nurtured individually to enhance their social & academic skills.
• We offer “All Sports” including soccer, basketball, football, track and more!
• Or, “All Arts” including: Music, Art, Zumba, Yoga, Pottery & Drama!
• Computer Tots and Extended Day
• Experienced Professional Staff, Low Teacher/Child Ratio.
• Two spacious outdoor playgrounds and large indoor gross motor space.
• Families of all faiths are welcome! Call us for a tour.
www.kesher-israel.org or email us at: [email protected]
Call us
atmosphere; Pennsylvania- certified
teacher and experienced aide in all
classrooms; caring and nurturing
environment; balanced curriculum (social
and academic skills taught); kindergarten
readiness program (4-year-old classes);
parent involvement; enclosed outdoor
playground,; field trips; family fun events;
extended day opportunities available,
including: Lunch Bunch, science club and
Music Movement & Me; and scholarships
for qualifying families.
Philosophy: To create a Christian
learning atmosphere where young children
can grow spiritually, socially, intellectually,
physically and emotionally.
Miscellaneous: Open house scheduled
Jan. 27 from 10-11:30 a.m. and 6-8 p.m.
Call for a tour.
•
WEST CHESTER PLAYSCHOOL, INC.
725 W. Miner St., West Chester
610-692-6538
westchesterplayschool.org
Director: Lina Bamihos
School year: September to May
Sessions: Two-year-old class Tuesday
and Thursday from 9-noon; three-year-old
class Monday, Wednesday and Friday from
9-noon; four-year-old class Monday
through Thursday from 9-noon. Lunch and
afternoon programs available, including an
afternoon kindergarten enrichment
program. Kindergarten busing provided
from Hillsdale Elementary School, West
Chester; however, children from all
elementary schools are welcome to
attend.
Program highlights: A non-profit,
parent-cooperative preschool. Daily
activities include instruction across the
content areas, movement and music,
dramatic play, open-ended art projects,
outdoor play, cooking and science
experiments. Teachers direct issues back
to the children and guide them through
the conflict-resolution process.
Philosophy: Our main goal is the
development of the whole child, socially,
intellectually and emotionally. Each child is
recognized as a unique individual in a
warm, caring environment. Our philosophy
is that young children learn best through
play.
•
WEST CHESTER AREA YMCA
MONTESSORI PRESCHOOL
605 Airport Rd., West Chester
www.ymcagbw.org/programs/montessori
Contact: Kavita Ghai at 610-431-9622,
ext. 2219
Sessions: Five full days for 2 1/2-yearolds-through-kindergarten before- and
after-school care available.
Program highlights: Keystone Starscertified; Montessori curriculum; swim
lessons, yoga and Spanish.
Miscellaneous: A holistic educational
experience to nurture the mind, body and
spirit.
West Chester Area YMCA
605 Airport Rd., West Chester
www.ymcagbw.org
Contact: April Anthony at 610-4319622, ext. 2219.
Sessions: Five full days for 6-weekthrough-3-year-olds. Before- and afterschool care available.
Program highlights: Keystone Starscertified; instruction through The Creative
Curriculum. Swim lessons, yoga and
Spanish lessons.
Miscellaneous: A holistic educational
experience to nurture the mind, body and
spirit.
(Continued on page A15)
Ǣǻʳ ƻȕĵ˅Ǣ ƻNJrǢNËŷŷĵ
ˠ˟ˣ Ǣʳ əÞĶĶ¶s ɚsŘȖsʰ rɮǼŸŘʰ ƻ ˠ˨ˢˣˠ ˥ˠ˟˚ˤ˨ˣ˚˨ˢ˨ˢ
ŗŷɟ ŷ®®rNJÝŗµ
®ȕĵĵ˚^ɳ ħÝŗ^rNJµNJǻrŗ ˨˚ˢ ƼŎ
ˡ ɳsNj ŷĶ_ NĶǣǣ ˛ ō ˓ ɟ ʹ˨˚ˠˠ Ŏʺ
ˢ ɳsNj ŷĶ_ NĶǣǣ ˛ ǻ ˓ ǻË ʹ˨˚ˠˡ ŘŸŸŘʺ
ˣ ɳsNj ŷĶ_ NĶǣǣ ˛ ōʰ ɟʰ ˓ ®NJ ʹ˨˚ˠˡ ŘŸŸŘʺ
ˤ ɳsNj ŷĶ_ NĶǣǣ ˛ ō˚® ʹ˨˚ˠˡ ŘŸŸŘʺ
Ëŗ^ɟNJÝǻÝŗµ ɟÝǻËŷȕǻ ǻrNJǢ NȕNJNJÝNȕĵȕō
rɭǻrŗ^r^˚^ɳ rŗNJÝNËōrŗǻ ˓ ĵȕŗNË DȕŗNË ƻNJŷµNJōǢ
ōȕǢÝN ˓ ōŷərōrŗǻ ƻNJŷµNJō ˚ ĵÝDNJNJɳ ŷ® ˠ˧˟˟ DŷŷħǢ ˚ Ǣōĵĵ NĵǢǢ ǢÝʉrǢ
Ýŗ^ÝəÝ^ȕĵÝʉr^ ǻǻrŗǻÝŷŗ ˚ NōrNJ˚rdžȕÝƻƻr^ ǢrNȕNJÝǻɳ ǢɳǢǻrō
NĶĶ ŸNj sŎÞĶ ¯ŸNj NJs¶ÞǣǼNjǼÞŸŘ ÝŘ¯ŸNjŎǼÞŸŘ ŸNj ɚÞǣÞǼʲ
ɠɠɠʳǣǼƼȖĶǣĶÞŸŘɚÞĶĶsʳŸNj¶ˀǣǼ˚ƼȖĶǣ˚ƼNjsǣOÌŸŸĶʳƼÌƼ
ɠɠɠʳ¯OsEŸŸĨʳOŸŎˀǣǼƼȖĶǣƼNjsǣOÌŸŸĶ
ƼNjsǣOÌŸŸĶ˔ǣǼƼȖǣĶÞŸŘɚÞĶĶsʳŸNj¶
JANUARY 2016
PRESCHOOL/CHILD CARE
KIDS A15
develop children spiritually, intellectually,
socially, emotionally and physically. We
provide a nurturing environment where
children can assemble, work, learn and
play in an atmosphere predominated by
love and sharing. This atmosphere of
unwavering Christian love and trust will
introduce school as a happy place
outside the home.
Kesher Israel
Preschool
•
Kesher Israel Preschool/Kindergarten,
1000 Pottstown Pike, West Chester,
features classes for toddlers (with
adult) through full-day kindergarten.
Transportation is provided to most
areas for kindergarten. An ‘Afternoon
Connections’ program for four- and
five-year-olds includes drama, art,
music, yoga, Zumba and various
sports (volleyball, soccer, basketball,
gymnastics, track and hockey).
Extended hours until 1, 2, 3 or 4 p.m.
are available every day. For more
information, call 610-696-4457 or visit
www.kesher-israel.org.
(Continued from page A14)
WHITELAND MONTESSORI SCHOOL
1101 E. Lancaster Hwy., Exton
610-594-4727
www.whitelandmontessori.com
[email protected]
Director: Jaimee C. Kaufmann
School year: September to mid-June.
Sessions: Half-day program (8:3011:20 a.m.) and full-day program (8:30-3
p.m.) two, three, four or five days a week
for ages 2.7-to-5 years. Morning
kindergarten available. Lunch Bunch
11:30-12:20 p.m.
Program highlights: Montessori
program which includes language, math,
science and geography; music, art, gym,
movement and Spanish.
Philosophy: We allow our children to
learn through their own experiences in an
exciting and educational environment.
Our classroom is designed to cultivate the
child’s natural desire to learn using the
Montessori method of teaching.
•
WINDSOR CHRISTIAN PRESCHOOL
213 Little Conestoga Rd., Uwchland
610-458-0339
www.windsorcp.org
E-mail: [email protected]
Director: Darlene Runyen
School year: 2016-2017
Sessions: AM (9-11:30) or PM (12:303) sessions for 2 1/2-to-five-year-olds
(must be three years old by March 1,
2016). Enrichment days; Lunch Bunch;
summer camp.
Program highlights: Founded in 1981,
Windsor Christian Preschool offers a
unique program that is filled with
enthusiasm and excitement for learning.
We offer a small student/teacher ratio and
encourage active parent involvement.
Music, art appreciation, creative
movement, chapel and special guests
enhance your child's learning experience.
Special activities (“Messy Day” is not to be
missed), celebrations and field trips
complement our program.
Philosophy: Windsor Christian
Preschool is a non-denominational
Christian preschool endeavoring to
(Editor’s note: The following listing was
received too late to be placed in its
proper alphabetical order.)
THE LITTLE GYM of EXTON
260 N. Pottstown Pike, Exton
610-363-2350
www.TLGExtonPA.com
[email protected]
Director: Page Hetrick
School year: 2016-2017
Sessions: Experiential developmental
and gymnastics classes for children ages
four months-to-12 years.
Program highlights: Motor skill
development parent/child classes.
Preschool and grade school gymnastics,
sports skills and dance classes, DUPLO
building events, “Awesome Birthday
Bashes,” day camps, monthly “Parents’
Survival Nights" and special events
throughout the year.
Philosophy: “Serious Fun!”
Messiah Community Preschool
46 W. Lancaster Ave., Downingtown, PA 19335
www.MessiahCommunityPreschool.com
“A Great Place for Kids to Learn and Grow!”
• Quality Preschool Education
• Experienced & Caring Teachers
• Age-Appropriate Activities
• AM Classes for Preschool Children Ages 2-1/2 to 4
• AM Classes for Pre-K Children Ages 4 to 5
• Field Trips, Special School & Family Events
• Pre-K Enrichment Program / Lunch Bunch Program
• Kids Sports Programs / Summer Kids Camp
OPEN HOUSE
Sunday, Jan. 24
1-3 p.m.
2016/2017 REGISTRATION BEGINS JANUARY 2016
Contact us for school information at 610-269-4488
[email protected]
Now Enrolling
Little Faces Childcare Center
! Open 6:30 am to 6:00 pm; no extra charges !
! Only two blocks from Justice Center, Hillsdale Elementary
and West Chester Business District !
! 6,500 sq. ft., including a full-size gymnasium for indoor play !
! Serving children from 6 weeks-to-11 years !
! Small classroom sizes and student/teacher ratio !
! We utilize the Creative Curriculum !
! Breakfast, Lunch and Snacks included !
! Before- and After-School Care !
! CCIS Subsidy Accepted !
! Summer Camps !
! Fun-Filled with Trips, Arts and Crafts, Sports and More !
!" #$%&'(" )%*$ +,'-( .
!"#$%&' ()*$%&' )%+ -.$/0!).$%&
-".$/'/0 "/&'$%/1"/23
Highly Qualified Teachers, Small Class Sizes,
Included Snacks and Lunch, Field Trips,
Spanish Classes, and much MORE!
)))$*+,-.*/*01-/2$01,
!"#$%&'$#((%
426 W. Gay Street, West Chester, PA 19380
610-344-7786 • www.littlefaceswc.com
PRESCHOOL/CHILD CARE
KIDS A16
JANUARY 2016
St. Paul’s Preschool
St. Paul’s Preschool, 104 S. Village Ave., Exton/Lionville, has unveiled a fullday kindergarten program from 9-3 p.m. that meets state curriculum
guidelines. In addition, the preschool has a five-day program for four- and
five-year-olds who will attend kindergarten next year, classes for three-to-fiveyear-olds from 9-to-noon and sessions for two-year-olds from 9-11 a.m. St.
Paul’s offers small class sizes, certified teachers who use the Handwriting
Without Tears© curriculum, weekly themes and centers, a Lunch Bunch
progrm, an enrichment program, arts and crafts, music and movement class,
an 1,800-book library, Bible stories and a camera-equipped security sytem.
Above, students are pictured during their recent ‘hat day’ festivities. For more
information, call 610-594-9393 or visit www.stpaulslionville.org/st-paulspreschool.html.
R
E
M
M
U
S
S
E
R
U
T
ADVEN
&
P
M
A
C
R
I
A
F
Y
T
I
V
I
T
C
A
0 – 7:30 PM
*
| 5:3
6
1
0
2
,
3
RES
1
U
Y
T
R
N
A
E
V
U
D
N
A
A
R
J
E
uary 14
.ORG/SUMM
ow Date: Jan
WWW.CCIU
FREE
ADMISSION
*Sn
CHESTER COUNTY INTERMEDIATE UNIT
TCHS BRANDYWINE, 443 BOOT ROAD, DOWNINGTOWN, PA 19335