Toddler Bridge
Program
St. Matthew’s
offers a Toddler Bridge Program for those children who are not yet age-eligible
for preschool and who would benefit from an independent program. In short, this
experience provides a safe and positive bridge – first steps – from a
parent-toddler program to the greater independence of a preschool program. Bridge classes provide young children
the opportunity to build confidence, gain valuable social interaction skills
and cultivate a positive self-image through the support of our experienced
teachers. The curriculum includes
hands-on experiences, art activities, stories, music, movement and outdoor
play. Bridge classes begin September 12th and 13th,
2011. Classes form on a first-come,
first-served basis as contracts are returned. Age eligible students may
also join during the year if a class has room.
If you are
interested, please fill out application form.
The first
weeks of class time are devoted to gaining trust and building familiarity, as
our nurturing teachers support the children (and their parents!) through the
separation process. We begin fall classes with a short visit, which include
both parents and children.
Gradually, over the first few weeks, we increase the length of class
time, so the children are able to build on a positive experience.
We recognize
that young children are best served when participating in a predictable, core
program that increases familiarity and comfort. For that reason, parents choose either the three-day
program: Monday, Wednesday, and Friday or the two-day program: Tuesday and
Thursday. If your child is ready
for more, and if we have room, you are welcome to add more days. Classes are
kept to a one-to-four ratio.
Parents often
ask if participation in a Toddler Bridge class is a prerequisite for admission
to St. Matthew’s Parish School.
The Bridge Program is an auxiliary program of St. Matthew’s and
admission to the Parish School is separate and distinct. We encourage parents
who are interested in admission to the school to make a preschool application
in the fall. Participating
in the Bridge Program is not only a great opportunity for your child to take
those early steps towards a preschool program; it is also a chance for us to
get to know one another better.
The Toddler
Bridge Program is open to all families whose children meet the age
requirements. I encourage you to share information about the program
with any friends who might be interested.
Eligibility for 2010-2011 School Year:
Boys who turn three between June 1,
2010 and January 31, 2011
Girls who turn three between
September 1, 2010 and April 30, 2011
Eligibility for 2011-2012 School Year:
Boys who turn three between June 1,
2011 and January 31, 2012
Girls who turn three between
September 1, 2011 and April 30, 2012
Tuition:
Option 1: Tuesday/Thursday Bridge Class $3,000
Option 2: Monday/Wednesday/Friday Bridge Class $4,000
Additional days may be added to Option 1 or Option 2:
Total of three afternoons: $4,000
Total of four afternoons:
$4,700
Total of five afternoons: $5,300
(Note: Total
above indicates core option plus additional days)
Important Dates for 2011-2012 Applicants:
- February 10: Informal parent meeting and a visit to a current Bridge class
- September 8: Enrolled Parent Orientation to meet with teachers and
other parents
- September 12: Classes begin for
Monday/Wednesday/Friday class
- September 13: Classes begin for Tuesday/Thursday
class
Questions may be directed to:
Heather Souza, PS – 4th
Grade and Summer School Administrative Assistant
Jane W. Young, Principal, PS – 4th Grade
310-454-1359
hsouza@stmatthewsschool.com
jyoung@stmatthewsschool.com
If you are
interested, please fill out application form.
