Choosing the Right Program for Your Child
Age Cut-Off & Placement Guidance
Children develop at different rates, and placement is based on age, readiness, and family goals.
Preschool (2-Day or 2-Day Full Day)
Designed for children who are 3 years old by the second week of school and who are fully potty trained.Pre-Kindergarten (3-Day or 3-Day Full Day)
Designed for children who are 4 years old by November 30th and are continuing to build foundational academic and social skills.Transitional Kindergarten (5-Day Afternoon Program)
Designed for children who are 5 years old, miss the September 1st kindergarten age cutoff, or are kindergarten-eligible but would benefit from an additional year to strengthen academic skills, confidence, independence, and social-emotional readiness before entering kindergarten.
Tree of Life Nursery School stricly enforces the age cut-off to ensure appropriate supervision ratios and a safe learning environment for all enrolled children. Our team works closely with families to help determine the program that best supports each child’s individual growth and success.
Age 3 → Preschool (2-Day or 2-Day Full Day)
Age 4 → Pre-Kindergarten (3-Day or 3-Day Full Day)
Age 5 or Missed Sept. 1 Cutoff → Transitional Kindergarten (5-Day Afternoon Program)
Potty Training Requirement
We require that all children be fully potty trained prior to attending. This means children are able to use the bathroom independently and do not require diapers or pull-ups during the school day. We do not provide diapering or pull-up changes. Occasional accidents are expected and completely normal. If accidents become frequent, we’ll partner with families to determine next steps. If you’re unsure whether your child is ready, we’re happy to talk through readiness and timing together.
KINDERGARTEN READINESS COMPARISON CHART
PRE-REGISTRATION DEPOSIT
$100.00 per child fully refundable
REGISTRATION FEE
$100.00 per child non-refundable
TUITION FEES
2 Day Half-Day Program - T/ Th 9:00 am - 11:30 am: $170.00 every month for 10 months
3 Day Half-Day Program - M/W/F 9:00 am - 11:30 am: $220.00 every month for 10 months
2 Day Full-Day Program - T/ Th 9:00 am - 3:30 pm: $340.00 every month for 10 months
3 Day Full-Day Program - M/W/F 9:00 am - 3:30 pm: $440.00 every month for 10 months
5 Day Half-Day Afternoon Program - M-F 1:00 pm - 3:30 pm: $265.00 every month for 10 months
Lunch Bunch
2 Day - T/Th 11:30 am - 12:30 pm: $70.00 every month for 10 months
3 Day - M/W/F 11:30 am - 12:30 pm: $90.00 every month for 10 months
5 Day - M-F 11:30 am - 12:30pm: $110.00 every month for 10 months
Explore Our Programs
Preschool Parent FAQs
Is my child ready for Preschool?
Preschool is designed for children who are 3 years old and ready to begin learning in a group setting. Children do not need prior school experience.
What skills does Preschool focus on?
Preschool focuses on social development, routines, language growth, early literacy and math concepts, and independence through play-based learning.
What’s the difference between half-day and full-day Preschool?
The Full Day option provides additional time for lunch, rest, enrichment activities, and extended play while maintaining a developmentally appropriate pace.
Do children need to be potty trained?
All children must be fully potty trained to attend any program. We do not provide diapering or pull-up changes. Occasional accidents are expected, but children must be able to use the bathroom independently.
“Are We Ready?” Family Checklist
Your child may be ready for school if they can:
☐ Tell an adult when they need to use the bathroom
☐ Use the toilet independently
☐ Pull pants up and down
☐ Stay dry for extended periods
☐ Recover calmly from the occasional accident
If you’re unsure, we’re happy to talk through readiness with you before enrollment.
2-Day Preschool Program is designed for 3-year-olds who are beginning their preschool journey. This program offers a gentle introduction to school in a nurturing, play-based environment that supports early social and academic development.
Children focus on building essential social skills such as sharing, taking turns, following routines, and gaining confidence in group settings. Through hands-on activities, songs, stories, and movement, children learn to express themselves, build friendships, and feel comfortable separating from caregivers.
Children are also introduced to early academic concepts including letters, numbers, colors, shapes, and early literacy skills, all woven naturally into play and daily classroom experiences.
Best for families seeking a part-time preschool experience that builds confidence, curiosity, and school readiness.
PRESCHOOL (Age 3)
2 & 3 Day Half-Day Morning Program
5 Day Half-Day Afternoon Program
Preschool Full Day Program Parent FAQs
Half-Day vs. Full-Day (Age 3)
Is my 3-year-old ready for a full day?
Many 3-year-olds do very well in a full-day setting when the schedule is thoughtfully designed. Our Full-Day Preschool follows a gentle, balanced pace with learning, play, movement, and rest built into the day.
What does rest time look like?
Full-Day Preschool includes rest or quiet time, allowing children to recharge. Children are not required to sleep. Quiet activities such as books, puzzles, or calm rest on mats are offered to support each child’s needs.
What happens if my child gets tired?
Teachers closely observe children’s energy levels and adjust the pace as needed. Afternoons are intentionally calmer, with smaller group activities and plenty of movement and choice.
How does lunch work?
Children bring a packed lunch from home and eat with their classmates and teachers. Lunch time focuses on:
Independence (opening containers, cleaning up)
Social skills and conversation
Calm, positive routines
What if my child has never eaten lunch at school before?
Teachers gently support children through the routine, modeling expectations and helping them feel comfortable. Lunch becomes a relaxed and familiar part of the day.
Will full-day Preschool be too academic?
No. Learning remains play-based and developmentally appropriate. The extended day allows for more exploration and enrichment, not increased pressure.
Can we start half-day and move to full-day later?
Yes, pending availability. Many families choose to begin with half-day Preschool and transition to full-day once their child is comfortable with school routines.
Our 2-Day Full Day Preschool Program offers the same nurturing, play-based preschool experience as our half-day program, with the added benefit of extended learning and social opportunities throughout the day.
Morning activities focus on foundational social and academic skills through hands-on, developmentally appropriate learning. In the afternoon, children enjoy lunch, rest or quiet time, and enrichment activities designed to continue learning at a relaxed pace.
Afternoon experiences include creative projects, extended academic exploration, movement, and outdoor or indoor gross-motor play, helping children build independence, stamina, and friendships.
Ideal for families seeking a longer day while maintaining a developmentally appropriate preschool experience.
PRESCHOOL (Age 3)
2 & 3 Day Full Day Program
Parent Decision Helper
Half-Day Preschool
Best for children new to school or families seeking a gentle introduction.
Full-Day Preschool
Best for children who enjoy longer days, benefit from consistency, or need extended care in a nurturing environment.
If you’re still unsure, our team is happy to help you decide which option best supports your child’s needs.
PRE-KINDERGARTEN (Age 4)
2 & 3 Day Half-Day Morning Program
5 Day Half-Day Afternoon Program
Pre-Kindergarten Parent FAQs
What days does the Pre-Kindergarten Program meet?
The program meets Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays with morning (9am - 11:30am) and afternoon (1pm - 3:30pm) sessions and a full-day option (9am - 3:30pm).
What is the focus of the 3-Day Half-Day Pre-K program?
This program focuses on building kindergarten readiness foundations while continuing to support social-emotional growth through purposeful play. Children strengthen early literacy and math skills, practice routines, and build independence in a nurturing environment.
Is a half-day schedule enough preparation for kindergarten?
Yes. The half-day schedule provides focused, developmentally appropriate learning time for many 4-year-olds. Children engage in meaningful instruction while still having time at home for rest, play, and family routines.
What does a typical day look like?
A typical morning includes:
Morning meeting and classroom routines
Literacy and math exploration
Hands-on learning centers
Creative activities and movement
Outdoor or indoor gross-motor play
Will my child have time for play?
Yes. Play is a core part of learning in Pre-K. Children learn through hands-on exploration, collaboration, and guided play throughout the morning.
Is lunch included in the half-day program?
Lunch is not included in the half-day Pre-K program. Families may choose to add Lunch Bunch for an additional fee, allowing children to stay for lunch and an extended play period. Available for children in the morning session only.
Our Pre-Kindergarten Program is designed for 4-year-olds who are ready to deepen their learning while continuing to grow socially and emotionally in a play-based, supportive environment.
Children engage in purposeful, hands-on learning experiences that build strong foundations in early literacy and math, including letter recognition, phonemic awareness, number concepts, patterns, and early problem-solving. Instruction is developmentally appropriate and balances guided learning with meaningful play.
A strong emphasis is placed on social-emotional development and independence. Children practice following routines, managing transitions, collaborating with peers, expressing ideas, and working both independently and in small groups—skills essential for success in future school settings.
Best suited for families seeking a part-time program that builds kindergarten readiness while honoring the importance of play, curiosity, and social growth.
Pre-Kindergarten Family Checklist
A good fit for children who:
☐ Will be 4 years old by November 30th
☐ Enjoy structured learning in a shorter time frame
☐ Are building early literacy and math skills
☐ Can follow routines and transitions with support
☐ Do well without needing rest time during the school day
☐ Benefit from afternoons at home or in other care
☐ May want the option to add Lunch Bunch for extended time at school
If you’re unsure, our team is happy to help you decide which option best supports your child’s needs.
Pre-Kindergarten Full Day Program Parent FAQs
Is my child ready for a full day at age 4?
Many 4-year-olds thrive in a full-day setting. The schedule includes rest/quiet time and a balanced pace to support stamina.
What is the focus of the Full Day Pre-K program?
The Full Day Pre-K program builds on kindergarten readiness goals while providing additional time for enrichment, social development, and stamina building.
Is this too academic?
No. Learning remains play-based and developmentally appropriate, with more time for exploration, small group instruction, and enrichment.
What does the full day schedule include?
The full day includes:
Morning academic learning and centers
Lunch time with teachers and peers
Rest or quiet time
Afternoon enrichment activities
Outdoor or indoor gross-motor play
What does rest or quiet time look like?
Children participate in rest or quiet time after lunch. Children are not required to sleep. Quiet activities such as resting on mats, looking at books, or calm table activities are offered to help children recharge.
Is lunch included in the Full Day Pre-K program?
Yes. Children bring a packed lunch from home and eat with their classmates and teachers as part of the daily routine.
Will full-day Pre-K be too long or tiring?
The schedule is intentionally balanced. Afternoons are calmer and include rest, movement, and choice-based activities. Teachers closely monitor children’s energy levels and adjust pacing as needed.
How is this different from half-day Pre-K?
The half-day program focuses on foundational readiness in a shorter time frame. The full-day program offers extended learning, deeper engagement, and increased independence while maintaining the same developmental philosophy.
How is this different from Transitional Kindergarten?
Pre-K focuses on building readiness foundations. Transitional Kindergarten is designed for children who are 5 or miss the kindergarten cutoff and focuses on mastery and independence.
Our 3-Day Full Day Pre-Kindergarten Program is designed for 4-year-olds who benefit from a longer school day while still attending on a part-time schedule. This program builds on the foundations established in our half-day Pre-K program, offering extended time for learning, social development, and enrichment in a nurturing, structured environment.
During the morning, children engage in intentional kindergarten-readiness learning through hands-on, developmentally appropriate activities that strengthen early literacy and math skills, including phonemic awareness, letter recognition, number concepts, patterns, and problem-solving.
In the afternoon, the day continues at a balanced pace with lunch, rest or quiet time, and enrichment experiences. Children participate in small-group academic exploration, creative projects, cooperative games, and outdoor or indoor gross-motor play. These activities support growing independence, stamina, collaboration, and confidence.
This program is ideal for families seeking additional consistency and extended learning time while maintaining a developmentally appropriate Pre-Kindergarten experience that prepares children for Transitional Kindergarten or kindergarten entry.
PRE-KINDERGARTEN (Age 4)
2 & 3 Day Full Day Program
“Is full-day Pre-K is right for my child?” Parent Checklist
Full Day Pre-K is often a good fit for children who:
☐ Enjoy being at school for longer periods
☐ Are ready for increased independence
☐ Benefit from consistent routines across the full day
☐ Thrive with added social interaction and enrichment
If you’re unsure, our team is happy to help you decide which option best supports your child’s needs.
TRANSITIONAL KINDERGARTEN (Age 5)
5 Day Half-Day Afternoon Program
Our 5-Day Transitional Kindergarten Afternoon Program is designed for children who are 5 years old, miss the September 1st kindergarten cutoff, or are kindergarten-eligible but would benefit from an additional year to strengthen readiness, confidence, and independence.
This half-day afternoon program provides a focused, intentional learning experience that bridges preschool and kindergarten while honoring children’s developmental needs.
Children engage in daily kindergarten-readiness instruction that strengthens early literacy and math skills, including phonics, letter-sound relationships, early reading and writing, number sense, and problem-solving. Instruction is purposeful, structured, and developmentally appropriate.
In addition to academics, strong emphasis is placed on social-emotional development and classroom independence. Children practice following routines, sustaining attention, managing materials, collaborating with peers, and developing perseverance within a supportive classroom environment.
The afternoon schedule allows children to arrive refreshed and ready to learn, while providing families with a meaningful kindergarten-preparatory option that does not require a full school day.
Transitional Kindergarten Parent FAQs
How is Transitional Kindergarten different from Pre-K?
Transitional Kindergarten focuses on mastery and readiness, while Pre-K focuses on building foundational skills.
Is Transitional Kindergarten the same as repeating Pre-K?
No. Transitional Kindergarten offers more advanced instruction, longer learning blocks, increased expectations for independence, and a stronger kindergarten-readiness focus.
Will my child still be challenged academically?
Yes. Instruction is differentiated to meet children where they are while continuing to build literacy, math, and problem-solving skills.
Why is Transitional Kindergarten in the afternoon?
The afternoon schedule allows children to arrive rested and ready for focused learning while offering families flexibility. Many children benefit from a shorter, intentional instructional block at this age.
Is this enough preparation for kindergarten?
Yes. The program is designed specifically to prepare children for kindergarten expectations through daily instruction, structured routines, and increasing independence.
“Is Transitional Kindergarten a Good Fit for My Child?” Family Checklist
Your child may be a good fit for Transitional Kindergarten if they:
☐ Are 5 years old or will turn 5 during the school year
☐ Miss the September 1st kindergarten cutoff or would benefit from an additional year before kindergarten
☐ Are ready for more structured learning but benefit from a half-day schedule
☐ Can follow classroom routines and expectations with growing independence
☐ Are developing early literacy and math skills and ready to strengthen them
☐ Benefit from additional time to build confidence, focus, and stamina
☐ Are growing in social-emotional skills such as self-regulation, problem-solving, and peer collaboration
☐ Would thrive in a kindergarten-preparatory environment without the demands of a full kindergarten day
If you’re unsure whether Transitional Kindergarten is the best fit, our team is happy to talk through readiness and placement options with you.
Lunch Bunch Parent FAQs
Who can attend Lunch Bunch?
Lunch Bunch is available to Preschool, Pre-Kindergarten, and Transitional Kindergarten students whose families choose to add this option for an additional fee. Morning students may stay after dismissal, and afternoon students — including Transitional Kindergarten students — may arrive at 11:30 AM to join Lunch Bunch before their afternoon session begins.
Is Lunch Bunch required?
No. Lunch Bunch is completely optional and designed to provide flexibility for families who would like a longer school day or a smoother transition into the afternoon program.
What happens during Lunch Bunch?
During Lunch Bunch, children:
Eat lunch with teachers and classmates
Practice independence and social skills during mealtime
Participate in outdoor play, indoor gross-motor activities, or calm group experiences, depending on the day and weather
Do children need to bring lunch?
Yes. Families provide a packed lunch from home. Teachers support children as they learn to manage lunch routines independently.
How long is Lunch Bunch?
Lunch Bunch lasts approximately one hour and takes place between the morning and afternoon programs. Morning students extend their day, and afternoon students (including Transitional Kindergarten) may arrive at 11:30 AM to participate before their session begins.
Is Lunch Bunch appropriate for younger children?
Yes. Lunch Bunch is designed to be relaxed and supportive. Teachers guide children through routines and activities at a developmentally appropriate pace.
Will Lunch Bunch be too tiring?
Lunch Bunch is intentionally structured to feel calm and enjoyable. Activities are flexible and include movement and choice, allowing children to recharge rather than feel overstimulated.
Can we add Lunch Bunch later in the year?
Yes. Many families begin without Lunch Bunch and choose to add it once their child is comfortable with school routines, subject to availability.
Our Lunch Bunch program offers morning students the opportunity to extend their day in a relaxed, nurturing environment. During this additional hour, children enjoy lunch with friends and teachers, practice independence and social skills, and unwind after a busy morning of learning.
For families enrolled in afternoon programs, children may arrive at 11:30 AM to join Lunch Bunch before their afternoon session begins, allowing for a smooth and consistent transition into the school day.
Following lunch, children participate in guided play experiences designed to support physical development and creativity. Depending on the day and weather, activities may include outdoor play or indoor gross-motor games, allowing children to move, explore, and recharge.
Lunch Bunch is the perfect option for families looking for flexibility and connection, while giving children extra time to build friendships, strengthen motor skills, and enjoy purposeful play in a familiar setting.
Lunch Bunch – Optional Extended Day
How does Lunch Bunch support kindergarten readiness?
Lunch Bunch plays an important role in building the independence and social confidence children need for kindergarten. During this time, children practice:
Managing personal belongings and lunch items
Following multi-step routines
Conversing respectfully with peers and adults
Problem-solving in social situations
Transitioning smoothly between activities
These everyday skills help children build stamina, responsibility, and self-regulation — all essential for success in kindergarten.