Early Learning Program

 The Early Learning Program at Kenston Forest School is licensed by the Commonwealth of Virginia Department of Social Services.  A structured program is offered for children aged 2 ½ to pre-school and follows the regular Kenston Forest academic schedule.   Additionally, before-school and after-school care is available for students up to age 12 and is available on regular school days, as well as many additional days during the year. 

The three year old program is offered three or five days per week, either half day or full day.  The four year old program is offered five days per week, with half or full day options.  Lunch and snacks are provided for both programs and are included in tuition costs.  Free bus transportation is also available for students who attend during normal school hours.

The goal of the Kenston Forest early learning program is treat each child as an individual, striving not to compare, but to appreciate the precious rhythm of each one’s growth.  The program is not intended to replace the priority of the home and its environment, but rather to supplement and enrich the child’s experience.
 

Curriculum

The whole language classroom is a managed classroom that provides a natural learning environment based on the individual needs of each student.  It is an environment that fosters social growth through cooperative learning and helps children develop their learning strategies and become aware of them.

The early learning curriculum includes sharing time, weekly themes, pre-writing skills, pre-reading skills, pre-math skills, language development skills, ample time for teachers to read books and other printed material to children, open-ended bulletin boards where children may post materials, a classroom library with a variety of books, children’s art projects displayed throughout the classroom, centers where children are allowed/ encouraged to play independently, and many other learning opportunities.
 

Facility

The Early Learning Program is housed in a modern, state-of-the-art facility built in 2004.  The 10,000 square foot building features nine classrooms with restrooms, a cafeteria, a pre-school playground, and administrative offices. 
 

Requirements

The following forms are required by the Kenston Forest Early Learning Program and must be completed prior to placement in any of our programs:

Registration Form and Payment of a $75.00 Registration Fee (non-refundable)

Enrollment Agreement Form & First Installment

Enrollment Information Form

Family Information Form

Physical Exam Form (to be completed by physician)

Proof of Immunizations

Copy of Birth Certificate

Handbook Agreement Form (Parents / guardians need to read the Early Learning Center Handbook and download the last page located on the Kenston Forest School website at www.kenston.org. (Click on the link at the top of the column to the left.)

Photo Release Authorization Form

Transportation Forms for Bus Service (This only applies to students attending the Early Learning Center during regular school hours (8:30 A.M. - 3:00 P.M.) requesting Kenston Forest School bus service.)

In addition to the necessary forms each child will also need a rest mat. Mats are available from the Early Learning center for $25.00. This item includes a mat with attached pillow and cover.

Contract

For additional information or if you have any questions or concerns about the Early Learning Program, please contact Nancy Hawthorne, Lower School Director or Violet Wallace, Assistant Director of Early Learning at (434) 292-7444 or (434) 292-7218.