St. Paul's Co-op Preschool plans open house events for Jan. 9

Saint Paul's Cooperative Preschool is planning two open house sessions on Monday, April 17, at 9:30–10:30 a.m. and 6:30–7:30 p.m.

Families are invited to explore the preschool and learn about its programs, ranging from a separation class for children who will be 2½ by Dec. 31 to a pre-K class for those nearly ready for kindergarten. St. Paul’s offers both morning and afternoon options.

St. Paul's Cooperative Preschool offers children the chance to get outside and experience nature in its children's playground space. In addition to full-size playground equipment, playhouses and toys, the area features trees and open green space to entice little explorers. The school makes unstructured outdoor play a part of every day, except when it’s raining or extremely cold.

The topic of children exploring nature has been hot for years, and there are even nature preschools opening up. Beyond the trend, it's common sense and proven science that participating in physical activity and experiencing nature both play important roles in positively influencing the health and well-being of young bodies and minds.

The school's mission is developing and encouraging social, emotional, intellectual and physical development in the children entrusted to their care. St. Paul's Cooperative Preschool follows the Emergent Curriculum philosophy, which emphasizes the capabilities and creativity of the child and teacher.

A typical day may include a child exploring learning centers set up in a room, plus (healthy) snack time, circle time and outside play. Literacy and numeracy development are interwoven with other activities. There is no homework, as the co-op believes that children this age learn best through meaningful play.

In addition to the scheduled open houses, St. Paul's is open for tours any school day. For more information call 216-932-0002 or visit www.stpaulscooppreschool.com. St. Paul's preschool is located at 2747 Fairmount Blvd., at Coventry Road. Parking is available in the lot at the intersection of North St. James Parkway and Fairmount Boulevard.