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What curriculum do you use?

 

Our programs are child-led, meaning that we take cues from the children to determine next steps in their experience at Bluebird. We design emergent curriculum based on the individual and collective interests and goals of each unique group of students. “Learning provocations” or “invitations to create” act as springboards to more in-depth study of a subject. We look for ways to integrate traditional academic subjects and the creative arts. For example, a study of a topic such as butterflies could include scientific, mathematical, engineering, historical, and literary elements as well as elements of music, visual art, and movement. We are inspired by the Reggio approach to early childhood education, which is centered on constructivism—the philosophy that learners construct knowledge through experience. In addition, we believe in the importance of laying the foundations of literacy and mathematics at an early age, and this is woven into our daily routines. Social Emotional Learning is central to what Bluebird is all about. We aim to foster each child’s development in the areas of social and interpersonal skills, self regulation, self esteem and confidence, compassion, and citizenship. We also draw upon elements of Waldorf and Montessori approaches to learning, and boxed curricula such as Orton-Gillingam, Words Their Way, TERC Investigations, Singapore Math, and Handwriting Without Tears.

 

What ages do you accept?

 

As a general guideline, our early childhood programs are recommended for ages 2.5-5, with 24 months being the youngest eligible for preschool classes. Our curriculum is designed to meet each student where they are. Your child's learning plan is individualized based on their strengths, goals, and interests. Therefore placement in a program is determined by the educator and parent as a team, and based on the child's readiness and approach to learning/play rather than on their age alone. 

 

Are there any discounts?

 

We offer a 10% sibling discount and financial need scholarships. To inquire about financial aid, contact hello@bluebirdatelier.com.

 

Does my child have to be potty trained?

 

We welcome potty trained children as well as those in the process of potty training (i.e. familiar with the concept and have practiced potty time), whether they are currently in diapers or have graduated from diapers. We support potty training in the studio by checking in with the child frequently about their needs, and facilitating routine bathroom breaks. We recommend at least one full change of clothes be kept in the child’s backpack in case of an accident.

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If my child is still napping, can they do a full day schedule?

 

All of our schedules build in calm, quiet time. The full day schedule includes a designated period of rest, which accommodates naps as well as quiet, restful time for children who do not need to nap. For children who need a longer nap, we accommodate them by allowing them to continue with the rest period in the quiet space, while the children who are ready to move to either outdoor play or time in the atelier. Nap periods are individualized for each child, and planned between the parent/caretaker and teachers.

 

Will your programs prepare my child for kindergarten?

 

Yes! Beyond all the curriculum points discussed above, we provide a structured schedule and kindergarten-like routines for each day. We guide children in navigating the classroom environment, making choices, nurturing friendships, communicating, advocating for themselves, building independence, and practicing the skills that will set them up for a successful transition to school.

 

Who teaches the programs?

 

We have a robust professional development program for our faculty, ensuring that each team member is at the cutting edge of their practice. We value innovative and research-based methods, and care deeply about providing excellence in early childhood education. Bluebird founder Jessi Almstead, M.Ed. oversees our early childhood programs. All of our teachers and assistants are required to have all childcare clearances, including FBI fingerprinting, child abuse background checks, and criminal history checks. They are child CPR/First Aid certified, fully vaccinated, and have a background in either education, childcare, or the arts. 

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What if my child has separation anxiety?

 

Some children experience big feelings when it comes to separating from their caretakers, no matter how much they enjoy their school experience. Our approach to this is to create a solid plan in partnership with the parent/caretaker, and the child, if they are developmentally ready to participate. Being consistent with this plan makes all the difference. Yes, there often will be tears, but within two weeks they will most likely cease if the plan is carried out consistently. In most cases, in five minutes or less after the grown-up's departure, the child will have recovered, and we always send a message with photos or video to put them at ease. We fully appreciate the trust that is required between caretaker and teachers, and how hard it is to go through this process, especially for new parents and first-time preschoolers! Each child and family is different, and we are here to support your unique needs. 

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Do you provide extended care?

 

Yes, extended care is available every day from 8:00-8:30 in the morning, and from 3:00-5:00 in the afternoon. It is used as needed, on a drop-in basis. Children are checked in and out of extended care daily, and your account is billed at the end of the month for time used. Extended care is invoiced separately (all billing occurs on our student management software, brightwheel). 

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How does billing and registration work?

 

We use an enrollment software tool called brightwheel for admissions, billing, and general communication with families. Brightwheel is appreciated by parents because it centralizes all aspects of enrollment, and acts as a convenient platform for sharing snippets of your child's day with you. When you apply to our program, you will receive an email and/or text invitation to join brightwheel (if you are new to it) and set up your child's profile and your account. We then share with you relevant documents such as our family handbook, tuition agreements, and other pertinent information. Your account includes a billing profile, where you are invoiced for the tuition deposit (the first month's tuition). From there, each subsequent month's tuition is auto billed on the first of the month (for 10 months for the full academic year), for a convenient and seamless tuition payment experience. Extended care hours used are invoiced separately on the first of each month, and payable through your brightwheel account. We accept all credit cards and ACH payments directly from your bank.