Frequently Asked Questions

Is there a program for young 2s?
Yes. To start in September, children must turn 2 by March 15th. We do offer the option to start in January for children who turn 2 by July 15th.

What is your policy on potty training?
2 ½-year-olds do not need to be potty trained. The helping parent is responsible for any necessary diaper changes during class and the school provides appropriate facilities and best practices for diaper changing. Students in the Multi-Age and above classes must be potty trained. We understand that accidents happen and recommend that children who are potty training are sent with a change of clothing. Our teachers will work with families to meet potty training goals.

How many children in a class?
Generally, the 2 ½-year-old classes have eight children in the fall, with up to 12 children in January. The Multi-age and Pre-K classes generally have 12 children. The 4’s class has up to 15 students.

Will my child be prepared for kindergarten?
Yes. Our curriculum is built to prepare children for Kindergarten. The most important goal of our early childhood curriculum is to help children become enthusiastic learners. Our curriculum is designed to help children become confident learners by letting them try out their own ideas and experience success, and by helping them acquire learning skills such as the ability to solve problems, ask questions, and use words to describe their ideas, observations, and feelings. Students learn through play, stories, songs, art, and conversation. Learn more at NAEYC.

What additional programs are offered at the school?
We offer art, cooking and lunch enrichment programs for 3- and 4/5-year-olds. Each session includes time to eat lunch (brought from home).

How do you handle separation?
We understand that some children have a harder time with separation than others. If your child is having a hard time transitioning into the classroom, the teacher will work with you and your child individually. Based on our experience, we recommend a quick good-bye at drop off with the teacher and helping parent on hand to help with the transition. Parents can wait close by until the child is calm and secure. In the rare event that your child is distraught, the teacher will contact you.

Do children need to be current with immunizations to start school?
Yes, all children must have current immunizations as required by the state of NJ, as well as receive a flu shot each year. Each child must submit the Universal Health Record signed by the physician and parent or guardian before being admitted to class.

Morrow is a Christian school. What does that mean?
As an extension of Morrow Memorial United Methodist Church, the school employs Methodist values to help children develop a positive self-image, practice kindness toward others and participate in charitable activities. Students learn several prayers that are said before snack and classes celebrate Christmas and Easter. But, we also encourage families of all faiths to share their traditions with the school. There is no attempt at denominational emphasis or indoctrination.

How many times will I co-op in the year and what's involved?
Full co-op families help approximately 9-10 times in a year. Partial co-op families typically join 4-5 times in a year. Extended family and nannies are also welcome to help. On your helping parent days, you will provide snack for the class and arrive 15 minutes early to meet with the teacher and review your responsibilities for the day. This is also a time for you to have fun with your child at school.

May I bring my baby to my helping parent days?
No. Your helping parent day is a special day for your preschooler. Many families at the school have younger children and have arranged to share babysitters or watch each other's children for helping days.

How can I get more involved?
You can join the Preschool Board or volunteer to help a fundraising or social event. If you have a special skill or talent, you can talk to your child’s teacher about sharing it with the class.

What certifications do your teachers have?
All of our teachers have either an education degree or a Child Development Associate Credential (CDA) which is a widely recognized credential in Early Childhood Education. All teachers are active members of The National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC). Each of our staff continually updates her early childhood education through various programs and seminars.