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| - The teachers and entire support staff at Shadow Rock Preschool really really love kids. It is so obvious from the moment each family walks in each day. The director, Kristen Hustead, and registrar, Mary Saunders, work so hard every day to build the family feeling of this community. My son came here from another preschool, after having a mediocre experience. He was shy, anxious about the change, and unsure about school in general. His teachers made him feel right at home from the first day and quickly integrated him into the class, helping him to form quick friendships.
These kids work hard BY playing hard! Creativity and problem solving are emphasized through lots of expolration time. Hands-on is the name of the game here. I loved my son being in an environment where no one was afraid of a little mess-- or a lot. They learned about reading by exploring books and being read to every day. Math concepts are absorbed by playing with geoboards, counting bears, pattern blocks, and more. Tons of motor skill development-- both large and fine.
And oh my, the playground. The playground is this huge open space nestled up against the mountains with a view of the city. Not that the kids notice the view, but it's a really peaceful place for them to rip and snort, with some special outdoor toys that rotate regularly.
If you're looking for rigorous academic preparation in the form of worksheets, flashcards, and reading preparation drills, this just isn't the place for you. And that's completely OK. There are tons of preschools out there that work with that model. Ifyou're looking for a loving community for your children to explore, play like crazy, have new experiences, problem solve, and learn life lessons for the under 5 crowd, then come check out their family. There's a reason most of their teachers have been there for many years. We couldn't have been happier here.
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