Playschool is a nurturing, fun, development-led drop-off program designed for children ages 2–3 who are ready to take their first steps toward preschool. With intentionally small class sizes and two highly qualified instructors, children receive personalized guidance in a warm, predictable environment where they can explore, grow, and gain confidence being away from their parents.

Through structured play and hands-on activities, children practice essential pre-preschool skills such as listening to a teacher, taking turns, sharing with peers, sitting for circle time, and communicating their needs. We also work on practical independence skills—like putting on winter gear, taking on and off shoes, etc. and early academic skills—including expressive and receptive language, counting, letter and shape recognition, etc.

Each session includes a joyful mix of circle time, crafts, science experiments, games, outdoor play, and snack time. Playschool offers families the perfect balance: a positive early learning experience for children and peace of mind for parents.

Playschool provides young learners with the confidence and readiness they need to thrive in future school settings.

Winter Session 2:
TUESDAYS 9:30-11:30AM – ages 2-3 years
First class: February 24th
Last class: March 24th

Cost: $225 (5 week session)

Instructors: Jess Applin (PhD in child development & Growing Littles instructor) and Kara Waybright (MA in French, MA in education, & Growing Littles instructor)

Enroll now

Frequently Asked Questions:

  1. Is Playschool a drop-off program?
    • YES! The goal of playschool is for children to practice the skills of independence in a safe, nurturing environment over brief periods. Caregivers are encouraged to run errands, grab a coffee next door at Dara, find a cozy spot to work or read at the Cumberland library, or if you live close, spend a little uninterrupted time at home.
  2. What are the instructor qualifications?
    • Both instructors are highly qualified educators and parents themselves. Jess has a PhD in child development and runs many classes at Growing Littles. Kara has MA degrees in education and French, was previously a middle school French Teacher, and teaches classes at Growing Littles.
  3. My child is not potty trained yet. Is that okay?
    • Yes. This age range is a big transitional time for potty training for many kiddos so we welcome kids at all stages – diapers, actively working on potty training, and fully trained. Parents are expected to provide diapers if needed.
  4. Do you provide the snack or do we pack our own?
    • Parents are asked to provide a snack for their own child because you know your child’s preferences best. We will all eat together during class each week as there are many skills that can be practiced during a shared mealtime.
  5. Is anything else happening at the playspace during Playschool hours?
    • No. Tuesday mornings will be reserved for Playschool only.
  6. What is your illness policy?
    • Our goal is always for parents to feel comfortable bringing their children to our space, and keeping germs at home is a big part of making that possible. If your child is sick please keep them home that week. You will receive a sick credit that you can use for a future class.

Still have questions about Playschool? We’d love to answer them. Please email jessica@growinglittles.info to chat more.