Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

{Preschool}

What age must my child be to participate in Giant Step’s Preschool Program?

The children present at Giant Step during our preschool hours are typically between the ages of 2 and 5. In other words, they are still too young to attend Kindergarten. As a “small center-based” program, we do not currently have a large enough staff to separate the children into groups all day. This simply means that all children present participate in our preschool activities.

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What kind of activities are available?

We work hard to ensure that our activities are developmentally appropriate. This means that the activities we provide are:

•  Centered on play. Research shows that play is the way children are meant to learn. (NAEYC provides many articles to help families understand how play IS learning.) https://www.naeyc.org/resources/position-statements/dap/principles

https://www.naeyc.org/our-work/families/play

• Varied to meet the needs of the whole child across all developmental domains (social, emotional, physical, cognitive (thought), and language)

• Balanced between time for teacher-directed activities (story time, group discussion, music/movement, games) and child-directed activities (free play, which includes various play centers, art materials, gross and fine motor play, outdoor time, etc.)

Can my preschooler attend Giant Step for child care if they attend public school via Rangely Preschool or a private school such as Rangely Christian Academy?

Yes. We do not require preschool-aged children to choose us over other options to use Giant Step. Many preschoolers use our program in conjunction with Rangely Preschool’s half-day program, which provides bussing from us to them and vice versa.

We do want families to know that we are a viable option on our own for preschool education before starting kindergarten via Parkview Elementary.

We respect each family’s right to decide what works best for them and their children, whether that choice is Giant Step, other schools/programs, homeschooling, or any combination.

Does Preschool run year-round at Giant Step?

No. We align our preschool schedule with RE-4 District’s Public school schedule each year. Preschool is in session from September 23rd, 2024, to May 15th, 2025. 

Giant Step may remain open for child care during public school breaks, provided there is enough demand. Families are given advance notice to sign up for care at such times, and we will post notice when a decision is made before the breaks. 

Have a question not addressed here?

Let us know. The answer is likely in our Parent Handbook, but we may add your question to our FAQs. We are always happy to help in person, or via phone, or email as well!

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