CLASSES

Play is learning!

TCNS provides a child-centered, play-based learning environment. We offer a balanced program supporting individual strengths and stressing the development of the whole child. Children explore a variety of organized and free-play activities designed to promote developmentally appropriate cognitive, social, and motor skills. Through meaningful free-play experiences, children develop crucial interpersonal and executive function skills that build the foundation for future success.

Two children lying in a pile of fall leaves
Child playing in the snow, holding a large snowball.

Let’s get messy!

At TCNS we know learning is messy work. Easel painting, art and sensory activities are always readily available and children are encouraged to experiment and explore classroom materials. Outside play is an essential part of our day and we play outside in all kinds of weather. On the playground children explore nature, dig, build, climb and run, building critical gross motor and thinking skills.

3 children playing outside in water and mud

We love field trips!

Our preschool classes also enjoy a variety of local field trips and hikes. We hike at Taughannock Falls State Park seasonally and regularly visit the Trumansburg library, fire station, police station, Juniper Manor, kindergarten, dentist, eye doctor, local restaurants, farms and orchards. Families frequently join us on these field trips.

Children on a field trip at the Trumansburg fire department

Classes & Programs

Classes at TCNS follow the Trumansburg Elementary school calendar with an optional summer camp program. Our morning preschool class has been our core program and foundation of our early education philosophy since 1959. Preschool classes enroll up to 18 children with 3 teachers and 2 parent helpers each day. The mixed age environment supports a wide range of learning styles and abilities and offers children the opportunity to become role models for younger children.

TYPICAL MORNING SCHEDULE

  • Arrival

  • Small Groups – children choose from a variety of activities including a teacher-led project

  • Circle Time – includes a book, songs, calendar, show & tell

  • Snack

  • Free Choice – additional art and sensory activities are available

  • Clean-up & Quiet Reading – children read with an adult or work in the writing area

  • Outdoor Play

In addition to regular activities, the children help build classroom community through their involvement with friend of the week, show & tell, and daily “jobs”. They also build an awareness of their community through regular field trips to local businesses. 

HALF DAY PRESCHOOL

Children ages 3 to 5 may enroll in the morning preschool program for two (TTH), three (MWF) or five (m-F) mornings per week from 9am to noon.  

TODDLER CLASSROOM

Children ages 18 months to 3 years may enroll in the toddler program for two (TTH), three (MWF), or five (M-F) days per week. The toddler program is also available as a half-day or extended day option.

EXTENDED CARE

Children attending the half-day preschool program may also enroll in an extended day that allows children to arrive early and stay until the end of the public school day.

SUMMER PROGRAM

Children enrolled in the toddler or preschool classes may enroll in a number of theme-based camp weeks offered by TCNS in both half-day and extended day. 

“I absolutely LOVE this program! I tell people to drive an hour one way to drop off a child there for school. It is a great place!”