Preschool is an important time developmentally, socially and emotionally for your child. We are very fortunate in our community to have a wide variety of excellent preschools to choose from to address these needs.  As you begin your search for the right preschool for your family, we would like to offer a few highlights as to what we feel sets Big Flats Preschool apart from the rest.

• Our facility. We are happy to be able to provide a spacious and bright child centered space to house our preschool.  The Big Flats United Methodist Church, as part of their outreach, graciously allows us to use the entire downstairs of the church.  We have access to three dedicated classrooms for our circle time, directed activities and free play, a large open space for center imaginative play, snacking, music and movement, storytelling and special guests, a kitchen, two bathrooms and two wonderful outdoor playgrounds.

• Our staff. The majority of our staff has worked together for over 7 years. This longevity provides consistency and continuity for the children. The children know us, they feel comfortable with us and they feel safe with us. Our staff is invested, committed and dedicated to our school.  Between us, we have 14 of our own children, all of which have attended Big Flats Preschool!  We maintain some of the lowest student to teacher ratios in the area so that we have the opportunity to get to know each child personally.  We are CPR and Epi-Pen trained, attend Early Childhood training opportunities and research many recent trends in Early Childhood to stay current in the field.  In addition to our many years of working in Early Childhood, several of our staff also have degrees in Education. 

• Our families. Big Flats Preschool fosters a true sense of community to those who attend.  We are a small, close knit group with wonderful kids and terrific parents, grandparents and caregivers! Many days you will find parents chatting in the halls, making plans for a play date or asking each other's opinion on things.  The children become good friends and so do the families.  Other parents experiencing the same milestones, challenges and accomplishments are the best resources for families. We are happy to provide a place that promotes and encourages these connections.

• Our day. A typical half day preschool program ranges from 1.5 to 3 hours a day. Big Flats Preschool is one of the few preschools in the area that offers a 3 hour a day program. Additionally, we are one of the few preschools that also offers a program for two year old learners.  Our two year old program runs for 2 hours a day but can be extended to 3 hours. We are also flexible in the number of days your child can attend. We allow you to chose what is right, comfortable and affordable for your family. 

• Our curriculum.  Our curriculum is a wonderful mix of play based and hands on learning.  We offer a theme based curriculum that gives us the opportunity to change and rotate our themes on a yearly basis so that no two years are exactly alike!  The children are engaged in hands on learning through several short theme based activities and a circle time. The remainder of their day is spent learning through play, a proven best method for learning at this age.  The toys and activities provided are changed on a frequent basis so that children never become bored with any particular area or activity.  We have found that this atmosphere works perfectly for our students!

These are just a few of the wonderful qualities that we feel make our school rise to the top.  If you are interested in hearing more about our programs, please call us today to set up a tour and see for yourself what we are all about!

What size is the class and how many days can my child attend?  These questions come up during almost every tour I give and are frequent topics of conversation with my staff.  We put a great deal of thought into our class size, frequency and staffing.  Of course, no two years are ever alike, as our kids and their needs are never alike from year to year!  The world of early childhood is dynamic, and we strive to remain current with the latest trends and practices without sacrificing the quality of education that we provide.  Here is a little insight into what goes into planning our classes for any given year!  


According to NAEYC (National Association for the Education of Young Children) the guideline for staffing ratios is this:
2 year olds - 1:6 for a class of 12
3 year olds - 1:9 for a class of 18
4 year olds - 1:9 for a class of 18

At BFP, we strive for lower ratios. Most years we aim for:
2 year olds - 1:4 for a class of 12
3 year olds - 1:6 for a class of 18
4 year olds - 1:8 for a class of 8

Things have changed dramatically though the years.  Back when my oldest (who is now 13!) was in Pre-K (4s), classes went as high as 24!  (This was before UPK was offered in the Horseheads District).  Recently, those numbers have fallen, but we have seen a great rise in our Early Learner (3s) and Toddler (2s) classes.  So, the dilemma is always how to accommodate all that want to attend and keep our classes manageable with the best ratios for the kids.  Ideally, the younger the child, the lower the ratio as they need more assistance with basic tasks. The Toddlers (2s) thrive with a smaller group as this is often their first exposure to group socialization and instruction.  Though the Early Learner (3s) class is larger than the Toddler (2s) class, the children excel in this environment and are given many opportunities to work together in small groups as well as socialize with a broader base of children.  The Pre-K (4s) kids function well with one teacher because they are slightly older and are learning more independence.  Their smaller class size affords them the opportunity to focus on kindergarten readiness skills.

In addition to class size, the number of days a child can attend has changed too.  Many years ago, Toddlers (2s) attended 2 days, Early Learners (3s) attended 3 days and Pre-K (4s) attended 4 days.  When UPK came along, we changed the Pre-K (4s) schedule to 5 days.  Then, over the past 2 years we have added the 3 day a week option to the Pre-K (4s) and the 2 & 5 day a week option to the Early Learners (3s).  Confused yet?  We enjoy being able to offer multiple day options with the hope that each family can choose what is right for their child.  Our current choices are:

Toddlers (2s) - 2 days a week - Tuesday & Thursday
Early Learners (3s) - 2 days a week - Monday & Wednesday
                                  3 days a week - Monday, Wednesday & Friday
                                  5 days a week - Monday - Friday
Pre-K (4s) - 3 days a week - Monday, Wednesday & Friday
                    5 days a week - Monday - Friday

As you can see, our planning is an ever changing process.  The bottom line is doing what is best for the children with the best staff.  In addition to our own research, we are always looking for suggestions and improvements from our families.  We love getting their input and we try to incorporate as much as we can.  The early childhood path is such an amazing one and we enjoy having our families along on the journey with us!

In the ever changing educational world, people are always looking for the next best thing.  When I am doing tours, parents often ask about technology in the classroom.  The short answer to the question is no, we do not have computers or iPads in the classroom.  The long answer is to why.  

Many studies have shown the importance of preschool in getting a child ready for school.  They will undoubtably encounter computers at a much earlier age when they start elementary school.  However, at the preschool age, much of their valuable learning is centered around play and socialization with peers.  The type of learning that can be gained through imaginative play and peer interactions cannot be duplicated on a computer.  At Big Flats Preschool, our days are filled with an ever changing array of toys, endless art supplies, guided activities, silly stories, singing, dancing, laughing, playing and a healthy dose of imagination. When the children are here, they can be children.  They can get messy, they they can jump up and down, they can play dress up, they can build a fort, they can learn and explore,  they can make new friends and play!

Computers are wonderful and useful for a multitude of things.  They definitely have their place in the older children's classroom.  However, they cannot and should not replace good, old-fashioned play.  That's what you will find every day here at preschool....learning though play.  With that, it's always a good day!

It's hard to believe that it's time to start thinking about preschool for the fall already.  It seems we've just wrapped up the holidays and entered our January slump.  However, it's never too early to start thinking about the importance and value of a good preschool education.  It truly does set the standard for achievement and growth in the later years of school.  

Many parents often come for a tour and tell me they don't know what they should be asking or looking for when they visit a preschool.  In my research, I found two great articles on the importance of preschool and some great things to look for when you are touring a school.  I hope these articles, along with a tour of our school and some conversations about our programs, will help make your decision easier and continue your child on the road to success!

"Choosing the right preschool for your child"
http://www.teachpreschool.org/2012/02/choosing-the-right-preschool-for-your-child/
"Why preschool matters"
http://www.parents.com/toddlers-preschoolers/starting-preschool/curriculum/why-preschool-matters/

Do you know the single hardest word that I have to say to my children?  The word NO.  When they were younger, I often avoided saying it in the effort to thwart off a major tantrum.  As they have gotten older, I find myself not saying it because I do not want to disappoint them.  Of course, the rational part of my brain realizes that my lack of saying no is not doing anyone any favors.   A child that is never told no thinks that everything is theirs for the taking.  It is our natural tendency to want to be able to give our children everything and never have them be disappointed.  Unfortunately, this will not serve them well later in life.  

Children do best when they are given structure as well as clear and specific guidelines about what is expected and appropriate behavior from them.   Boundaries give your children a sense of security and well being.  Often times, especially during periods of stress, it is easier to give in than it is to say no and stand your ground.  Children, even very young ones, learn how to get things to go in their favor.  They are very insistent and become keen negotiators.  However, if they know they can get you to cave in eventually, you are teaching them to repeat the offending behavior.   

It is okay for your child to test limits.  It is their job and how they learn.  As a parent, it is our job to provide the boundaries within those limits to be tested.  Parental follow through is a critical component of our role.  This follow through teaches your child that some things are not negotiable and no does mean no.  They realize that they will survive and are safe to continue to explore the world around them knowing you will always love them and safely guide them through the journey called childhood.

I think one of the hardest things about parenting is wondering if you are doing it right.  Of course, there really is no right or wrong, it's more trial and error to see what works for you and your family.  Luckily, the resources you have available to you can provide guidance and support when you need it the most.  When I think back to when my kids were little (and even now that they are a bit older), I'm not sure what I would have done without many of the things listed below!  

Friends and teachers - These two groups can be your biggest cheerleaders and sources of support.  The preschool community offers a base of families with whom you can form lasting bonds and friendships.  You are guaranteed a group of people that have similar aged children and are going through the same stages, frustrations and joys that you are.  Reach out to each other, have playdates, grab a quick coffee while the kids are in school and chat.  Often knowing that others are walking the same path as you and having another person to lean on, bounce ideas off and vent to makes all the difference.  Another wonderful resource are your children's teachers.  As I mentioned at orientation the other day, between the five of us, we are raising 16 children and have taught preschool for a total of 38 years!  In addition to working with your children, we are here for you too!  We are happy to answer your questions, offer our suggestions, brainstorm an idea or just provide a friendly ear.  We are here to help and are more than willing to share our own experiences and learnings on the fun filled world of raising children!

Local resource centers and activities - We are so very fortunate to have two family resource centers and a wealth of activities available for young children nearby.  In addition to the Parent Resource Center in Corning and the Horseheads Family Resource Center, there are many music classes, dance classes, art classes, gymnastics, sports and library story hours for your children to participate in.

Online resources - What did we do before Pinterest, Facebook, Yahoo and bloggers?  All of these things are quick, easy and free ways to connect and get information on parenting.

Books and magazines - Of course you can still go old school with books and magazines.  Consider a subscription to a magazine like Parents or head to the local library and check out some parenting books.  Often an idea or quick article can provide you with the information and clarity you were looking for.

Family - I was never more thankful for my family than when I first had children.  Near or far, grandparents, aunts, uncles, brothers, sisters and spouses can provide a safe and loving environment for you and your children.  Take advantage of the wisdom, guidance and love and support that your family has to offer.

Remember, we are all in this together and are here for you every step of the way!

"Mom, we're bored!"  The dreaded words no mom wants to hear, especially at the beginning of summer.  So, here are some options for you:

Go to a park and fly a kite.
Hit the Harris Hill pool.
Run through a sprinkler or set up a slip and slide.
Head to the library.
Tour a museum.
Enroll in a camp.
Go on a scavenger hunt.
Ride a bike.
Eat ice cream.
Burn off some energy at a playground.
See a movie.
Play mini-golf.

We are also fortunate that there are many summer programs in our area to take advantage of.  We are having two weeks of summer camp at the preschool this year, July 14-18 and August 11-15.  Also locally, Tanglewood Nature Center, Wings of Eagles Discovery Center, Head Over Heels Gymnastics, Elmira Gymnastics and the Corning YMCA offer many fun programs for children.  For school aged children, both Horseheads and Big Flats have Summer Cohesion/TAFFY programs for children ages 5 and up.  Don't forget to also take advantage of all the local parks, playgrounds, museums, resource centers and zoos!

Are we afraid to let our children fail?  The simple answer for me, yes.  As a parent, I hate the idea of letting my child suffer through a moment of pain.  No parent wants that for their child, whether it be physical pain, mental pain or emotional pain.  However, letting a child find their own way is often the key to.

Do I tend to overpraise my children?  Yes.  It's easy to fall into the trap of telling them "Good job"or " You did great" for every little thing.  However, when you overuse praise, it can actually backfire on you.  First, the kids come to expect it for everything and second, it gives them a false sense of self worth.  I have three children.  I am proud of all of them, think they are great at a million things and love them to pieces.  But, I also know they are human and capable of doing non praise worthy things like getting in trouble and doing things they are not supposed to.

Self-esteem actually depends on your internal ability to generate positive feelings about your accomplishments.  Though we as parents can contribute to positive feelings, a child has to actually experience the struggles and sometimes fall short of their goals to really develop their own positive self worth.  The last thing we want to do is make our child so dependent on praise that they actually develop a fear of failure.  

It's not a quick fix, but there are certain ways we can give props without overdoing it.  Instead of generic phrases like "Good job", "You are the smartest one" or "You are the best artist", try to promote positive behaviors and actions without going over the top.  Specific phrases like "I am so proud of you for dressing yourself today" or "You must be proud of yourself for doing well on the test" address events without being over the top or using throwaway phrases.  It's okay to notice their efforts, ask questions and help guide them.  Every event does not need to have a prize at the end of the rainbow.  I always tell my kids as long as they know they have done their best, that's all we can ask for.  Every game will not be a win, every test will not be a 100.  If they are loved and know you will listen to them, support them and be happy for them, then we are doing our job and they are growing into the successful and well adjusted young adults we want them to be.

You've made it through the baby stage and now you are thinking it may be time to ditch the diapers. Does your child show interest in the potty?  Are they able to tell you when they need to go?  Can they stay dry for extended periods of time?  Potty training is a very individual thing.  No one method works for every child.  There is no specific age or time that works best.  Each child, even within the same family, will have a different schedule and a different technique.  Here are a few of the basic that work for many children.

• Make frequent trips to the potty.  Though not always convenient, putting your child on the potty on a regular basis, whether they have to go or not, is often very beneficial in the beginning to help establish a routine.
  
• Offer plenty of positive reinforcement - A little praise goes a long way.  Children love positive reinforcement, and potty training is a good time to use it frequently.  Even if they don't go each time, encourage them to try, praising them when they do.
  
• Try a small prize - Many kids are visual learners.  A sticker chart, M&Ms or a small token make do the trick. 
  
• Encourage modeling - If they go to preschool, seeing the other kids go to the potty may motivate them to want to go to.  Talk about all the people that use the potty, and what fun it is!
  
• Pick out special underwear - Let your child be involved in this process.  A little pride in choosing their big kid underwear will go a long way!
  
• Consider a potty book - Kids love to read.  There are many cute potty books available.  Purchase one and read it and allow them to take it to the potty with them if they need to spend a few minutes in there :)
  
• Practice consistency - Consistency is key. Don't potty train one day and then use diapers the next.  This sends a confusing message to the kids, sometimes it's ok to go in my pants but not others.  

There will be accidents and setbacks, this is a normal part of the process.  Remember, potty training is a marathon, not a sprint.  The end result is always worth it!

What do you do to make birthdays special at your house?  Growing up, we always had family parties and one of my grandmother's famous checkerboard cakes.  The big treat was always picking the colors for the checkerboard and listening to the oohs and ahs when the cake was cut into and everyone got to see your choices.  When my own children came along, I wanted to make sure we had some special traditions too.  Traditions don't have to cost a lot of money, and it doesn't matter how small or silly they are.  It's the fabulous memories you are making for your children that they will remember their whole lives.

For my own children, when they come down on their birthday morning, the kitchen has been transformed into a birthday wonderland.  Balloons and streamers and of course a Happy Birthday banner are hung.  The special birthday candle (just like I had as a child) is ready to burn down another year.  Later in the day, the birthday child is allowed to pick a special dinner and a special dessert (served on a birthday plate!) for the whole family to enjoy.

Here are some other cute traditions I read about that sound like fun:
Make a favorite things list.  When the kids are younger, you can help with the list.  As they get older, they can write it themselves.  It can include favorite foods, pastimes, books, TV shows, colors and what they want to be when they grow up.  Save these each year and keep them in a scrapbook to have as a memento when they are older.

A friend of mine had a special seat cover with a birthday cake on it for the birthday child.  They also had a special birthday plate and cup to use that day as well.

Celebrate a half birthday!  We do this at our house.....the kids get half a card and I serve half a cake.  It's also fun to serve half a glass of milk, use half a napkin and sing half of the "Happy Birthday" song.  It's a cute and funny way to recognize when you are halfway through a year and it's especially nice to be able to have a little celebration during a different season (my daughter has a winter birthday so she loves to celebrate her half birthday in the summer).

Write a silly message or picture on the bathroom mirror,    A bar of soap or lipstick make an easy way to leave a simple message for the birthday child to wake up to.

Stash a surprise.  Instead of leaving the gifts in a group, try hiding them throughout the house.  Sneek a tiny gift into their shoe, leave one on the carseat.  It's like a big game of Birthday Hide and Seek!

There are so many creative ways to make the day special and memorable for your child.  What you do will be carried through their lives and probably passed on to their own children as well.  What a wonderful gift!