Daily Schedule

Children, like adults, thrive on predictability and familiarity. When their daily activities follow a consistent schedule and routine, they feel more confident and secure. This sense of stability is fostered both at home and in group care settings, helping children feel in control of their environment.

Morning

8:30 - 9:00 AM: Arrival and Free Exploration
Children arrive and engage in self-directed activities in various learning centers (blocks, art, sensory, dramatic play, etc.).

9:00 - 9:20 AM: Morning Meeting/Circle Time
Gathering together for greetings, songs, news sharing, and discussion of the day's theme or focus.


9:30 - 9:45 AM: Morning Snack
Children eat morning snack together as a community at our large central table or outdoors, weather permitting.


9:55 - 10:25 AM: Large Group In-Depth Project Work/Investigative Play - Whole Class Group

  • Children collaborate on hands-on projects related to their interests and questions. Activities and investigations may involve art, STEAM concepts, dramatic play, literacy exercises, music or nature exploration.

  • Teachers facilitate and provide resources to support investigations.


10:30 - 11:30 AM: Outdoor Exploration
Children explore and play in our outdoor play area. Twice a week we take children on a walking field trip to Lafayette Nature Center and to the nearby banks of Coal Creek.


Afternoon

11:40 AM - 12:10 PM: Lunch
Children eat lunch together as a community at our large central table or outdoors, weather permitting.

12:20 PM - 1:30 PM: Quiet Time/Rest
Children rest or choose to engage in quiet activities like reading, puzzles, or drawing while their friends rest.

2:00 PM - 2:30 PM: Small Group Activities/Workshops
Children participate in small group activities led by teachers or specialists, such as cooking, music, storytelling, or science experiments.

2:10 PM - 2:25 PM: Snack and Outdoor Play
Children eat afternoon snack together as a group outdoors, weather permitting.

After snack, children are invited to small or large group activities outdoors, weather permitting. Activities and investigations may involve art, STEAM concepts, dramatic play, literacy exercises, music or nature exploration.

3:15 PM - 3:25 PM: Closing Circle/Reflection of our School Day
A brief gathering to share experiences, reflect on the day, and transition to departure.


3:30 PM: Pickup Time