Pre-School We have been touring preschools for Daisy. She is turning 3 this year and we feel she will really enjoy school, although she tells us consistently that she isn't going and that we should just send Luke. Upon our visits, we quickly realized pre-schools differ a lot in terms of price, teaching philosophy, classroom size, and outdoor play time. But we also realize every child is different and one preschool could be ideal for one little girl while it may not be perfect for another.   Bay shore offers a Universal pre-K for all 4 year olds, so Daisy will need to go to school for 1 year to get ready for her 5 day/week program. There are many benefits of Preschool. Academically, children will learn pre-math concepts, colors, shapes, and letters. Some schools in the area offer French while others teach Spanish. Socially, children will learn to share, take turns, and make friends.  Lastly, preschool promotes school readiness such as following directions, sitting quietly and raising your hand. (Just writing this makes me nervous for my little girl.) When thinking about why you are sending your child to preschool and how you want them to benefit from it, it may be good to ask these questions on your visits:   How many students are in a class? What is the student-to-teacher ratio? What is the background and experience of your teachers? What is the monthly tuition? What other application fees and costs can I expect?  Do the parents need to volunteer for driving or are they required to give a certain amount of hours to the school? Some require parents to devote 10 hours to working at the school. Pick up and drop off policy? Are the outside doors locked while school is in session? What is a typical day? Is there a potty training policy? If my child has an accident do I need to come there to change her?  Some schools are very academic oriented and teach through traditional means such as sitting in assigned chairs and working independently. While other schools promote learning through play and more interaction. It is really up to you and your child. We are also considering location. When your child goes to school for 2.5-3 hours a day, having a place close by makes all of the difference!
We are so very thankful and appreciative of everyone's support. We value every thought, comment, and message we receive. Thank you always. Email (optional) Comments
Prayer for Daisy  (This prayer truly helped me when Daisy was in the hospital. I hope it can be used to help other families in need) Gentle Jesus, stay beside your child Daisy Grace. Take away any pain, keep her safe, help her at this time, make her body strong and her heart glad. Thank you for your love which surrounds her always. Amen. A Special Thank You Our sincere appreciation goes out to everyone who has followed the path of our Precious little girl and is still following her progress into a little lady. Thinking back to June 2007, so much has taken place from a rocky start in the NICU, to a year of therapy, to watching Daisy grow and progress. We never forget how much love and support and care we received. All of the prayers, kindness, friendship, generousity, and thoughtfulness gave us the strength to face each day and focus on the moment. We only hope we can help provide enough love, support and strength to others going through similar situations. Thank you with all of our heart.
Mommy Ross	Dad Ross