Childcare & Preschool Finder 2013

Childcare Preschool Finder FREE

June 2013

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Birth through 5 Years

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Readiness Pre-K 4 SA

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contents June 2013

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features for Children 8 Childcare with Special Needs

For parents of children with special needs the search for a sufficient care facility can become stressful and worrisome. Several local special education professionals offer the advice on the search process and things parents should keep in mind.

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Early Childhood Education in S.A. Gets a Boost

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Fortify Your Kids Bones

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Encourage Your Preschooler’s Vocabulary

Early childhood education takes a giant step forward in San Antonio this August with the opening of two Model Education Excellence Centers focused on improving the quality and quantity of education of area 4 year olds.

departments 6 Editor’s Note Welcome to Childcare Preschool Finder

23 Photo Page

advertising

12 Childcare & Preschool Directory

You know that kids grow healthy and strong through exercise and proper nutrition, but did you know that childhood is prime time for preventing osteoporosis?

Who can forget their child’s first word? It was likely your name, but maybe it was “bawww” (ball) which lit up your faces with a smile. It feels natural to celebrate, praise, and applaud our toddlers as they acquire new language skills daily. In turn, such enthusiasm encourages a child to speak additional words.

o n th e co ve r 8 Finding Childcare for Kids With Special Needs 10 Pre-K 4 SA Gearing Up 20 5 Tips for Reading Readiness PHOTO BY Jenn Brookover Photography

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Our Kids Magazine | Childcare & Preschool Finder June 2013

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editor’s note

By Cynthia Ladson Magazine

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P.O. Box 1809 Castroville, TX 78009 Magazine 210-305-4181 Toll Free Number, 866-465-6936 Visit us online at OurKidsMagazine.com

Magazine

Welcome to Childcare Preschool Finder

T

he 2013 Childcare Preschool Finder is here and once again Magazine Our Kids Magazine provides area parents and guardians information to help in their search for the most appropriate childcare and/or preschools for their kids.

Explore the many Childcare Preschool Finder listings near the back of the book and read articles on how you can encourage your Magazine preschooler’s vocabulary and what you should know when looking for preschool and daycare options for your child with special needs.

Also, read about the start of Pre-K 4 SA. In “Encourage Your Preschooler’s Vocabulary” academic counselor and freelance writer Michele Ranard offers five fun and creative ways parents can get their children ready for reading.

Two of Ranard’s suggestions include Mealtime Magic and Make Believe and Mime. During Mealtime Magic parents introduce new or uncommon words to their preschooler at dinnertime. In Make Believe and Mime parents engage kids in pretend play while introducing them to a wider variety of vocabulary words. Ranard’s other tips are just as imaginative.

Preschools and/or daycares are not all the same, especially when it comes to caring for children with special needs. In the article “Childcare for Children with Special Needs” by April Lynn Newell, read some questions parents should ask when looking for services for their child.

In “Early Childhood Education in S.A. Gets a Boost” read about Pre-K 4 SA, the education initiative passed by voters in November 2012. The program is set to kick off in August 2013. Read about this program’s objectives and how it will impact education in San Antonio.

Happy reading!

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Our Kids Magazine | Childcare & Preschool Finder June 2013

PUBLISHER Pat Ramotowski, Ext. 101 Magazine EDITORIAL Editor: Cynthia Ladson, Ext.102 PHOTOGRAPHY: Kelley Ramotowski, Ext. 104 ADVERTISING SALES Account Executives: Mary Anne Jones, Ext. 103 Pat Ramotowski, Ext. 101 PRODUCTION Graphic/Web Designer: Rudy Riojas, Ext. 105

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DISTRIBUTION Distribution Manager: Tony Smith, Ext. 106 OUR KIDS MAGAZINE LLC is a locally owned magazine published monthly. Advertisements in this magazine are paid for by the advertisers, which allows this magazine to be free to the consumer. Limit of one free copy per reader. Call 210-3054181 ext. 106 to request additional copies. Unless specifically noted, no advertisers, products or services are endorsed by the publisher. All real estate advertised herein is subject to the Federal Fair Housing Act, which makes it illegal to advertise any preference, limitation, or discrimination because of race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status, or national origin or intention to make any such preference, limitation, or discrimination. We will not knowingly accept any advertising for real estate which is in violation of the law. All persons are hereby informed that all dwellings advertising are available on an equal opportunity basis. OUR KIDS MAGAZINE LLC copyright 2013. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without written permission is prohibited.

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Pad Subscribe loadable your kidsto our oadable app, it• lets PLUS: PLUS: St. Anthony Catholic School’s Administration, e-newsletter at ■■ An cars ars onto a “secretFREE test track” An easy-to-use easy-to-use Digital Digital Edition Edition of of this this Faculty, and staff are committed to an irr cars cars around around the theOurKidsMagazine.com world for for world month’s issue issue month’s accelerated curriculum providing the children eir imagination imagination to to life. life. Ten Ten eir Calendar of of Family Family Events Events with a well rounded education and more.

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& Preschool Finder June 2013 parent you you will will have have the the opportunity opportunityChildcare to teach teach parent to children morals morals & & values, values, and and help help promote promote children healthy self-image self-image and and self-esteem. self-esteem. aa healthy

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Childcare for Children with

Special Needs

By April Lynn Newell

F

or parents of children with special needs the search for a daycare facility can become stressful and worrisome. To help the search process, several local professionals list and explain specific credentials, activities and other aspects parents should keep in mind.

Special needs range from moderate to severe.

Special education teacher Lora Steiger explains the range as well as some needs and skills to keep in mind. “Severe disabilities are children who are Intellectually Disabled (ID). These children may have trouble with personal tasks, such as hygiene, feeding, bathing and clothing. Other children might have low physical functioning, however, their mental functioning may be high, like with Cerebral Palsy. Some children with moderate needs are high functioning with health issues such as heart conditions, seizures or ADHD.” In all these cases parents need to find a daycare that is equipped to care for their child.

“Parents should look for a facility that welcomes special needs children, has a properly trained and certified staff and gives special needs children time 8

Our Kids | Childcare & Preschool Finder June 2013

to be with their non-disabled peers,” says Steiger.

“There are many facilities that will not take on the responsibility of a special needs child, whether it is lack of trained staff or that they are uneducated about special needs children. You want a place that is warm, inviting and willing to work with you and your child.”

Certifications and training are of the utmost importance for your child’s safety as well as the safety of others.

“If your child requires special care, you want a staff that knows how to deal with those issues. It can be anything from medical needs (catheters, seizures, etc.) to behavior issues and you want a facility that is willing to keep trained and certified staff to accommodate these issues. For example, having someone trained to properly restrain a child is beneficial when you have a child that could hurt themselves or others with their actions,” says Steiger.

Steiger recommends parents ask about any alternative plans when your child has an exceptionally hard day that may lead to physical outbursts. The facility, for example, should be able to provide a separate and safe place where your child can calm down before resuming any activities.

Julie O’Toole, director of children’s services at Mission Road Ministries, gives a list of questions for parents to ask care facilities:

Questions to Ask ■■What are the daily schedules and types of activities

in which my child will be involved?

■■Is there a nurse on staff?

■■Will you distribute medication?

■■Are children grouped by age or developmental

level?

■■Do you accept children who wear diapers who may

be older than the typical diaper-wearing age?

■■How do you handle the gender situation when

children are changed or use the restroom?

■■Is there a lifeguard on duty for swimming/pool

activities?

■■Do you handle behavioral issues?

■■How do you communicate with parents

regarding injuries, illness or accidents?

■■Do you handle special diets?

“[Parents] should be sure all staff are trained to work with special needs children as well as have special training related directly to any conditions and disorders of the children they are offering services to. At least one degreed person should be part of a staffing pattern,” O’Toole says.

Steiger, who has previously worked as a general education inclusion teacher, thinks interaction and practice in socializing with other peers is a very important component to any care program. “[Children with special needs] need to be able to be around non-disabled peers who can model appropriate social behavior and where they can practice proper social conventions,” Steiger says. “This benefits not only the special needs children, but their non-disabled peers as well. They will learn compassion and caring when their special needs peers are in the classroom. It’s a wonderful sight to see a classroom with special needs children involved!”

O’Toole advises to involve your child in the search process as well.

“Meet with the staff and tour with your child. Look for safety risks and cleanliness,” says O’Toole. “If, during the tour of the facility, you feel at all uneasy or uncomfortable, you should not put your child there.”

O’Toole mentions she has heard of parents hiring a college student who can spend one-on-one time with their child, an option if you cannot find a sufficient care facility. Steiger agrees with following your parental intuition as well.

“One instance when I would not put my child in a daycare or camp is when I am uncomfortable with how they interact with special needs children,” says Steiger.

“I might see something negative or have a negative feeling about a facility or program. As a mother, you get that feeling when you know something just isn’t right.

Go with your gut. This is a parent’s choice.

Parents have to go off what they feel is right and appropriate for their child.”

the

acorn

A School For Young Children 3501 Broadway 78209 210-826-8804

• 5 to 1 Student/Teacher Ratio • Degreed Teachers • Developmentally Appropriate • 33 Yrs. Of Educating Children 3 thru Kg.

www.theacornschool.net

April Lynn Newell is a San Antonio freelance writer and photographer.

Childcare & Preschool Finder June 2013 | OurKidsSanAntonio.com

9

Early Childhood Education in S.A. Gets a Boost E

arly childhood education takes a giant step forward in San Antonio this August with the opening of two Model Education Excellence Centers focused on improving the quality and quantity of education of area 4 year olds.

The Model Centers are the result of the November 2012 passage of a prekindergarten (Pre-K SA) initiative proposed by Mayor Julian Castro. The program is funded by a 1/8-cent increase in the local sales tax rate.

About 630 4-year-olds, who reside in seven Bexar County school districts, will enroll in prekindergarten classes for August 2013. Another 70 students from throughout the city will have the opportunity to enroll as well. Districts signing on to participate in the program include San Antonio, Northside, Edgewood, Harlandale, North East, South San and Southwest. According to Pre-K SA statistics the seven districts represent 90 percent of the eligible student population. Some districts not participating in the program this year still have the option to join in the future.

For the first year, Model Centers will be situated on the North Side (Medical Center area) and South Side (Brooks City Base West area), with two additional centers opening by the third year. Construction is currently under way and on schedule for the centers set to open in August. It is expected that when the program is fully implemented at the end of eight years, about 3,700 children will be educated annually in the four model centers and through competitive grants.

Participation in the program is determined by a lottery system, however to be included in the lottery, students are required to pre-enroll.

Program services are free for qualifying families based on the following state Pre-K eligibility criteria: ■■ Family must be at or below 185 percent of federal poverty level ■■ English must be the student’s second language ■■ Child of an active duty member of the U.S. armed forces ■■ Child of an injured or deceased member of the U.S. armed forces ■■ Family is homeless ■■ Student is currently or previously in foster care.

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Our Kids | Childcare & Preschool Finder June 2013

About 10 percent of students who families’ incomes are above the 185 percent federal poverty level will be selected via the lottery for enrollment in the Model Centers at cost.

Pre-K SA’s centers will utilize research-based early childhood curriculum and will be aligned with the current Texas Education Agency, TEA and prekinder guidelines. Specific areas to be covered include reading, writing, mathematics, science, social studies and fine arts.

Social and emotional development, language and communication and personal health and safety development will also be included in daily teaching methods.

Classes will include two teaching professionals – one teacher and one teacher’s aide per 20 students. Extendeddaycare service will be provided at the centers to assist working parents.

Officials anticipate Pre-K 4 SA will reduce existing achievement gaps by at least 25 percent in language, 33 percent in math and 90 percent in literacy. Initiative supporters think the students’ State Assessment of Academic Readiness (STAAR) reading and math assessments scores will see a 10 percent improvement by third grade.

“Research shows that high-quality prekindergarten has the most impact in improving overall education outcomes for a community and helps children to learn and read on grade level, making them less likely to fall behind their classmates and more likely to graduate and attend college,” according to the Pre-K SA March 2013 newsletter.

Pre-K SA is headed by a board of directors led by Elaine Mendoza, founder president and CEO of MindWorks, Inc. Other board members include Dr. Richard Middleton, former North East School District superintendent; Maj. Gen. John Robles, president and CEO of USAA; Gloria Ramirez, retired early childhood educator; John Folks, former Northside School District superintendent; Comelia Black, former principal in the North East School District; Pamela Ray, assistant professor of early childhood and family studies at St. Philip’s College; Richard Perez, president and CEO of the Greater San Antonio Chamber of Commerce; Dave Force, former executive director of San Antonio Youth Literacy; Bob Bevard, development officer for the American Mensa board of directors; and Dr. Linda Foster, principal in the Alamo Heights School District.

Fortify Your Child Against Osteoporosis

By Heather Lee Leap

Y

ou know that kids grow healthy and strong through exercise and proper nutrition, but did you know that childhood is prime time for preventing osteoporosis?

Kids aren’t just getting bigger and taller as they grow.

Their bones are also growing stronger, increasing in density.

Children continue to make more bone than they lose until their mid-20s. This is the time when they reach peak bone mass, the greatest amount of bone they will ever have.

According to the Osteoporosis Foundation, the more bone your child has at the time of peak bone mass the less likely she is to break a bone or develop osteoporosis later in life.

Osteoporosis means “porous bone.” It occurs when we lose too much bone, do not create enough bone, or both.

Low bone density increases a person’s risk of fractures.

While it is most common in women, men also can develop osteoporosis.

Use the following recommendations to build strong bones and develop habits that will keep your kids growing strong throughout their teens and into adulthood.

Nutrition: ■■ Provide foods high in calcium such as low-fat cheese, yogurt and milk fortified with vitamin D. ■■ Serve a wide variety of fruits and vegetables, especially green leafy vegetables that are high in calcium.

■■ Limit soft drinks. Children who consume soft drinks are less likely to drink milk or calcium-rich alternatives. Offer milk or calcium-added non-dairy beverages at meals.

■■ Make homemade popsicles from calcium-fortified orange juice.

Exercise: ■■ Weight-bearing exercise strengthens bones as well as muscles. The Centers for Disease Control recommends children participate in bone-building activities such as jumping rope, running, or climbing on a jungle gym at least three days per week. Aim for sixty minutes of physical activity each day.

■■ Encourage your child to participate in sports.

■■ Limit periods of inactivity. Take a break from TV, video games, even reading and home work. Sunlight is an important source of bone-strengthening vitamin D, so head outside to be active.

■■ Run, jump and play as a family. Go for a walk or jog together. Jump rope, play kickball, soccer or basketball.

■■ Hold wheelbarrow races in the backyard: Have your child start in a push-up position. Hold her feet in your hands like the handles of a wheelbarrow as she walks or runs on her hands to the finish line.

Heather Lee Leap is a freelance writer focusing on parenting and health issues. Her mother’s recent diagnosis of advanced osteoporosis inspired her to learn more about osteoporosis to protect herself and her daughters.

St. Monica Catholic School Est. 1960

St. Monica Catholic School offers a developmentally appropriate early childhood program enriched with an emphasis on academic, social and religious foundations.

Registration for Summer Fun Program and Fall classes now in progress for Pre-School thru 8th Grade.

(210) 658-6701 515 North St. Converse, TX 78109 www.saintmonica.net St. Monica admits students of any race, religion and national or ethnic origin.

NOW ENROLLING SUMMER PROGRAM

• Licensed Child Care Center • Enriched Learning Curriculum • Accepts Children 6 Weeks -12 Years old • CCS Accepted • Extracurricular Activities Offered • Indoor playground,12 classrooms & 3 outdoor playgrounds

(210) 566-1999

Hill Country Montessori School An Education of Distinction...

     

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Boerne

50 Stone Wall Drive Boerne, TX 78006 830.229.5377 www.hcmontessori.org info@hcmontessori.org

Hill Country Montessori School, Inc. does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, nationality, or ethnic origins in the administration of its policies or procedures.

Childcare & Preschool Finder June 2013 | OurKidsSanAntonio.com

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Childcare & Preschool Directory Boerne Apple Tree Day School 18 Scenic Loop Road #100 Boerne, TX 78006 830-981-4343 Early Learning Center of St. Mark’s Presbyterian 208 W. Bandera Boerne, TX 78006 830-249-3813 www.stmarktx.org Hill Country Kids Learning Center 946 Adler Road Boerne, TX 78006 830-249-9222 Hill County Montessori School 50 Stonewall Dr. Boerne, TX 78006 830-229-5377 www.hillcountrymontessori.org Hug-A-Bear Child Care Center 215 Water St. Boerne, TX 78006 830-249-2327 Planet Kids Learning Center 522 E. Blanco Boerne, TX 78006 830-249-5922 www.planetkidslc.com St. Helena’s Early Enrichment Pre-School 108 Rock Street Boerne, TX 78006 830-249-8084

Bulverde/Spring Branch Bulverde UMC Child’s Morning Out 28300 Hwy 281 North San Antonio, TX 78260 830-980-7745 Children’s Lighthouse Learning Center at Stone Oak 20906 Gathering Oak San Antonio, TX 78260 481-2882

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Kiddie Koop 28190 HWY 281 North San Antonio, TX 78260 830-980-7671 Kids Day Daycare 32850 US HWY 281 N Bulverde, TX 78163 830-438-6732 Lighthouse Christian Learning Center 2420 Bulverde Rd. Bulverde, TX 78163 830-980-9016

St. Monica Child Development Center 515 North St. Converse, TX 78109 658-6701 www.saintmonica.net Open year round from 7 a.m. – 6 p.m., daily. The early childhood program provides state licensed childcare along with academic experiences in pre-school, pre-kinder and kindergarten. Call or visit our website for more information.

New Braunfels

Shining Stars Learning Center 1056 E. Borgfeld Rd. San Antonio, TX 78260 830-714-5470

A Creative Learning Center 311 FM 306 New Braunfels TX, 78130 830-237-3682

Young Scholars Day School 30021 Hwy 281 North Bulverde, TX 78163 830-980-6327

Blue Bird Kids Academy #2 1365 County Line Road New Braunfels, TX 78130 830-387-5096

Converse Converse Christian School and Early Learning Center 9146 FM 78 Converse, TX 78109 659-0203 Kiddie Round-Up, Inc 9145 FM 1516 Converse, TX 78109 945-8391 La Petite Toepperwein 829 Toepperwein Rd. Converse, TX 78109 658-2639 Peek-A-Boo Hideout Learning Academy, Inc. 8679 FM 78 Converse, TX 78109 310-5437 Room 2 Grow Child Development Center, LLC 8316 FM 78 #107-108 Converse, TX 78109 276-0961

Our Kids Magazine | Childcare & Preschool Finder June 2013

Cross Lutheran Pre School & Childcare 2171 E. Common St. New Braunfels, TX 78130 830-625-3969 www.crosslcmsschool.org Dayspring Christian Pre-School 1895 S. Walnut New Braunfels, TX 78130 830-626-8614 www.dayspringchristianpreschool.org First United Methodist Day School & Kindergarten 572 W. San Antonio St. New Braunfels, TX 78130 830-608-1724 Happy Childhood Learning Center 242 Trade Center Dr. New Braunfels, TX 78130 830-620-1310 Happy Days Day Care, Inc. 115 N. Union New Braunfels, TX 78130 830-629-1141

Kids’ Day Out 373 Howard St. New Braunfels, TX 78130 830-629-2286 Learning Their Way 1015 W. San Antonio Street New Braunfels, TX 78130 830-358-7718 Little Einsteins , L.L.C 2797 IH 35 South New Braunfels, TX 78130 830-620-5453 New Braunfels Christian Academy 995 Mission Hills Dr. New Braunfels, TX 78130 830-625-8002 www.nbchristianacademy.org The Morgan Center, LLC 1215 Ervendberg Ave. New Braunfels, TX 78130 830-627-9222 Through a Child’s Eyes 2047 E. Common St. New Braunfels, TX 78130 830-620-5998 Triple L Ranch Child Development Center 737 County Line Rd. New Braunfels, TX 78130 830-620-0254

Schertz/Selma Brighter Futures Learning Center 210-566-1999 1213 Borgfeld Rd. Schertz , TX 78154www. brighterfutureslc.com brighterfutureslc@yahoo.com We strive to meet the needs of all children. Children are encouraged to explore their environment and think creatively. Teachers guide and enhance this process through materials and activities. Come out & take a tour of our beautiful facility.

Childcare & Preschool Directory La Petite Academy Savannah 1201 Savannah Dr. Schertz, TX 78154 658-0518

Dreamland Christian Academy 840 N. Blvd Universal City, TX 78148 659-4800

Mary’s Little Lambs 1271 Oak Schertz, TX 78154 658-8170

First Baptist Academy 1401 Pat Booker Rd. Universal City, TX 78148 658-5331

Our Lady of Perpetual Help Child Development Center 16075 N Evans Rd. Selma, TX 78154 651-6819 www.olphselma.org/

Ms. Annie’s Daycare and Learning Center 2001 Pat Booker Rd. Universal City, TX 78148 290-8533

Play Today, Inc. 17319 IH 35 N, Suite 302 Schertz, TX 78154 651-3610 www.playtodaydropin.com Schertz Christian Academy 1002 Live Oak Road Schertz, TX 78154 210-845-0191 www.schertzchristianacademy. com Schertz First Baptist Preschool 600 Aero Schertz, TX 78154 658-0488 Texas Heritage Children’s Ranch 10725 E FM 1518 North Schertz, TX 78154 659-1033 www.txheritagechildrensranch.com Tiny Tot Learning Center 4720 FM 1518 W Selma, TX 78154 651-0039

Universal City De La Crème Early Learning Academy 135 Athenian Drive Universal City, TX 78148 566-0212

New Life Fellowship Child Development Center 11225 East Loop 1604 Universal City, TX 78148 566-9900 Play Time Drop In Childcare 2921 Pat Booker Rd. STE 104 Universal City, TX 78148 566-6011 Universal City United Methodist Preschool 90 Winn Ave., Universal City, TX 78148 658-5761 www.ucumpreschool.com UCUM preschool is a nationally accredited (NAEYC) program that serves three and four year olds. Classes are half day and are two, three or four days a week. Longer days can be arranged by adding Lunch Bunch. We believe children learn best through hands on activities, discovery and play.

Beautiful Children Learning Daycare Center 3655 Fredericksburg Rd. San Antonio, TX 78201 735-5504 Blessed Sacrament Learning Center 222 Cevallos W. San Antonio, TX 78204 223-5013

Green Acres Child Care Center 1303 S. Main San Antonio, TX 78204 223-3107 Healy-Murphy Child Development Center 122 Nolan San Antonio, TX 78202 224-9569

Big Bird Day Care Center 1810 W. Thorain San Antonio, TX 78201 732-2001

House of Neighborly Service 407 N. Calaveras San Antonio, TX 78207 434-2301

Career Point Institute Day Care Center 571 Spencer Lane San Antonio, TX 78201 732-3000

Immaculate Conception Kindergarten and Nursery 2407 W Travis San Antonio, TX 78207 226-3934

Central Christian Child Care Center 720 N Main San Antonio, TX 78205 226-9672 www.cccsa.org

Inman Christian Center 1214 Colima San Antonio, TX 78207 222-9641

Discovery School 222 Salem San Antonio, TX 78201 344-3472 Ella Austin Child Center 1023 N. Pine Street San Antonio, TX 78202 224-2351

Joy Learning Center 244 Sherwood San Antonio, TX 78201 734-7884 Kids’ Paradise Day Care 2508 Buena Vista San Antonio, TX 78207 438-8835

First Baptist San Antonio 515 McCullough Ave San Antonio, TX 78215 226-0363 www.fbcsa.org

Laurel Heights United Methodist Church Child Care 234 W Mistletoe San Antonio, TX 78212 732-6979 www.laurelheights-umc.org

1.2..me…Childcare 2910 Hillcrest San Antonio, TX 78201 734-7515

First Presbyterian Church Children’s Center 404 N Alamo San Antonio, TX 78205 225-0960

Lil’ Munchkins 4704 San Pedro San Antonio, TX 78212 822-7702

A Blessed Child 1722 Texas Ave San Antonio, TX 78201 733-3688

Good Samaritan Center 1600 Saltillo San Antonio, TX 78207 424-0897

Little Learning Center 1730 W. Huisache Ave San Antonio, TX 78201 733-9300

Central

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Childcare & Preschool Directory Madison Square Children’s Center 319 Camden St. San Antonio, TX 78215 226-1920 Magnolia Avenue Daycare Center 1710 W. Magnolia Ave. San Antonio, TX 78201 737-6859 Over the Rainbow Christian Day Care 2617 N. Zarzamora San Antonio, TX 78201 732-8698 Precious Angels Christ Daycare and Learning Center 302 Cincinnati San Antonio, TX 78201 736-9400 Small Steps Child Development Center 810 &812 West Ave. San Antonio, TX 78207 785-9494 St. Anthony Catholic School Katherine Ryan Program 205 W. Huisache San Antonio, TX 78212 732-8801 Ext. 120 www.stanthonysa.org

Sunshine Cottage 603 Hildebrand San Antonio, Texas 78212 (210) 824-0579 www.sunshinecottage.org Sunshine Cottage teaches students with hearing impairment (pre-K through 12th grade) using the auditory oral method. The Parent-Infant Program (birth-3 years of age) is dedicated to supporting, educating, and guiding parents help their baby learn to listen and talk. Newborn hearing screening is available by appointment.

Ties-N-Bows Learning Center 1334 Basse Rd. San Antonio, TX 78212 737-8437 University Presbyterian Children’s Center 300 Bushnell San Antonio, TX 78212 734-3035 VIA Child Development Center 711 W. Laurel San Antonio, TX 78212 362-2230

North Central

St. John’s Lutheran Day School 502 E Nueva San Antonio, TX 78205 225-2392

Abiding Presence Lutheran Day School 14700 San Pedro San Antonio, TX 78232 491-9565

St. Paul’s Episcopal Montessori School 1018 E. Grayson San Antonio, TX 78208 271-2861 www.stpauls-satx.org

Acorn School for Young Children 3501 Broadway San Antonio, TX 78209 826-8804 www.theacornschool.net

San Antonio College Child Development Center 210 W. Ashby Place San Antonio, TX 78212 486-0530

Alamo Heights Presbyterian Child Development Center 6201 Broadway San Antonio, TX 78209 822-3213

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Our Kids Magazine | Childcare & Preschool Finder June 2013

Alamo Heights United Methodist Weekday School 825 E Basse Rd. San Antonio, TX 78209 826-2412

Coker Day School 231 E North Loop Rd. San Antonio, TX 78216 494-5061 www.coker.org

Arc-A Caring Choice Northeast 13430 West Ave. San Antonio, TX 78216 490-4300

Colonial Hills United Methodist Child Development Center 5247 Vance Jackson San Antonio, TX 78236 349-9583 www.colonialhills.info

Blessed Sacrament Parish Child Development Center 102 Sharon Dr. San Antonio, TX 78216 824-1392 Castle Hills First Baptist Daycare & Preschool 2220 N.W. Military Hwy. San Antonio, TX 78213 377-8479 Castle Hills Learning Center 8030 Blanco Rd. San Antonio, TX 78216 342-9810 Child Montessori School 2829 Hunters Green San Antonio, TX 78231 493-6550 www.childmontessori. squarespace.com Children’s Lighthouse Learning Center @ Stone Oak 20906 Gathering Oak San Antonio, TX 78260 495-2223 www.childrenslighthousesa.com Christ Lutheran Day School 6720 Broadway San Antonio, TX 78209 822-7671 Christ Our Savior Daycare 5323 Blanco Rd. San Antonio, TX 78213 733-9444 Circle School 217 Pershing Ave. San Antonio, TX 78209 822-0461 www.thecircleschool.org

Community Bible Church Kids Day Out 2477 North Loop 1604 E San Antonio, TX 78232 477-5174 www.communitybible.com Country Kids Academy 21002 Encino Commons Rd. San Antonio, TX 78259 403-2458 www.countrykidsacademy.com/ Crown of Life Lutheran PreSchool 19291 Stone Oak Pkwy.

San Antonio, TX 78258 490-9860 www.crownoflifesa.org Educare Child Care Center, Inc. 3838 West Ave. San Antonio, TX 78213 979-9219 Gan Gani Preschool 14541 Blanco Rd. San Antonio, TX 78216 492-1085 www.gangani.org Heintz Preschool 16550 Huebner Rd. San Antonio, TX 78248 479-0307 I’m Just A Kid! 323 W. Sunset San Antonio, TX 78209 822-3016 Jewish Community Center

Childcare & Preschool Directory Child Care 12500 NW Military Hwy. San Antonio, TX 78231 302-6846 Just Kids Christian Learning Center 3060 Olmos Creek Dr. San Antonio, TX 78230 492-8840 Kids R Kids Schools of Quality Learning 1909 W Bitters San Antonio, TX 78248 798-5300 www.krksa.com Kids R Kids Quality Learning Center 21780 Hardy Oak Blvd.

San Antonio, TX 78258 496-1200 www.krksa.com La Petite Academy 1107 W Bitters Rd. San Antonio, TX 78216 496-3779 www.childtime.com Little Farm School 5038 West Avenue San Antonio, TX 78213 340-2887 Little House Day Care 1638 Basse Rd. San Antonio, TX 78213 733-3574 Little Vineyard Preschool 1323 Brookstone San Antonio, TX 78248 479-7792

provides a stimulating environment for children beginning at 12 months. We are located in a quiet four acre wooded setting. Our traditional Montessori curriculum includes Music, Spanish and Motor Skills Programs.

Before and after school care available.

Mount Sacred Heart School 619 Mount Sacred Heart Road San Antonio, TX 78216 342-6711 www.mountsacredheart.com Mount Sacred Heart is a private, coeducational Catholic school committed to quality education.

A faith-based community fostering personal uniqueness and development of the whole person.

Northwood Presbyterian Day School 518 Pike Road San Antonio, TX 78209 826-5601 Rainbow Station Preschool 322 E Sonterra Blvd.

San Antonio, TX 78258 495-5222 www.rainbowstation.org St. Andrew’s United Methodist Week Day School 722 Robinhood Place San Antonio, TX 78209 824-8737 www.saumc.com

Luv N Care Child Development Center 13211 Huebner Rd. San Antonio, TX 78230 696-5677

St. David’s Episcopal School 1300 Wiltshire San Antonio, TX 78209 824-2481 www.saintdavids.net

Montessori Schoolhouse 10711 Dreamland Dr. San Antonio, TX 78230 341-0731 www.mymontessorischoolhouse.com Montessori Schoolhouse

St. George Episcopal School 6904 West Ave. San Antonio, TX 78213 342-4261 www.saintgeorgeschool.org

St. Luke’s Episcopal School 15 St. Luke’s Lane San Antonio, TX 78209 826-0664 www.sles-sa.org St. Mark’s Catholic Preschool & Nursery 1602 Thousand Oaks Dr. San Antonio, TX 78232 494-9282 www.stmarkevangelist.com St. Peter Prince of the Apostles School 112 Marcia Place San Antonio, TX 78209 824-3171 www.stpeterprince.org St. Thomas Episcopal School 1416 N Loop 1604 E San Antonio, TX 78232 494-3509 Shearer Hills Baptist Early Learning Center 12615 San Pedro San Antonio, TX 78216 545-2175

Development, children learn through enriching hands-on experiences. 5 to 1 student/ teacher ratio.

The Bilingual Child Academy 210-701-8461 96 Trailcrest, San Antonio, TX 78232 www.bilingualchildacademy. com The Bilingual Child Academy is a Dual Language & Language Immersion center which offers preschool and school-age language enrichment classes.

BCA is dedicated to providing language enrichment classes in a learner centered environment by implementing a carefully selected curriculum and creating a nurturing atmosphere where children of all ages can flourish both socially and emotionally in a global world.

The children served by The Bilingual Child Academy will be surrounded with experiences that will foster physical, social, academic, emotional, cultural and cognitive growth to build a community of learners for the future.

Spanish Grove Academy 22215 Wilderness Oak San Antonio, TX 78258 390-1470 www.spanishgroveracademy.com Spanish Grove Academy’s curriculum is theme-based with clearly defined centers that offer the children the opportunity to expand their knowledge of the theme through fun, engaging activities ~ language arts, math, science, sensory, dramatic play, blocks and building, library, computer, and art. At SGA no matter what “play activity” the child is engaged in they are learning!

Thomas Jefferson Schoolhouse 3110 NW Loop 410 San Antonio, TX 78230 310-6946 We are now accepting children 24 months of age and will assist with the potty-training process.

Let your child experience the difference of a Reggio Emilia inspired program. Our school provides a strong educational foundation using a phonetic approach to reading and the Montessori Method. Top-quality education does not have to cost a fortune!

The Acorn School 210-826-8804 3501 Broadway, San Antonio, TX 78209 www.theacornschool.net The Acorn is a half day educational preschool and kindergarten, enrolling children ages 3-6. Based in Child

The Goddard School 21785 Hardy Oak San Antonio, TX 78258 494-2779 www.goddardschool.com Whether gently holding infants, encouraging toddlers to share, or providing preschoolers with enriching activities, The

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Childcare & Preschool Directory Goddard School ® supports the healthy development of children from 6 weeks to 6 years.

The Wright Start Learning Center 6411 Vance Jackson San Antonio, TX 78230 558-6882

Michael’s Child Care Center 645 Kayton Ave. San Antonio, TX 78210 533-3939

Holli Hills Day Care Center 2430 Wayne San Antonio, TX 78222 648-7146

Poppys Kiddie Kampus 1134 Gillette Blvd.

San Antonio, TX 78224 923-1476

Jubilee Child Development Center, LLC 2931 S. W.W. White Rd. San Antonio, TX 78222 337-7727

South Central Bizzy Beez Child Care Center 4647 Roosevelt San Antonio, TX 78214 927-1340

Ray Ellison Family Center Palo Alto College 1400 W. Villaret San Antonio, TX 78224 486-3500

Blessed Sacrament Academy Child Development Center 1135 Mission Rd. San Antonio, TX 78210 532-5363 www.bsacdc.org

San Antonio Cottage #2 706 Division San Antonio, TX 78225 923-5050

Carino Child Care Center 435 Sims Ave. San Antonio, TX 78225 533-6026 Jennie & Mikie’s Child Care 1110 Halliday Ave. San Antonio, TX 78210 533-1558 La Mision Summer Kid Kamp 2211 S. Hackberry St. San Antonio, TX 78210 534-3836 Lil Tikes Day Care Center 2710 Tortuga St. San Antonio, TX 78224 924-8453 Little Treasures/Tesoritos 539 Carlisle San Antonio, TX 78225 924-0354 Little Wonderland Child Care 510 W. Theo Ave. San Antonio, TX 78214 534-6324 Make a Wish Daycare 10503 Roosevelt San Antonio, TX 78214 627-9712

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Southern Angels Day Care Center 102 Octavia Pl. San Antonio, TX 78214 532-6435 Teeter Totter Child Care Center 6031 S. Flores, Suite 101 San Antonio, TX 78214 932-2029 Tot spot Children’s Daycare 6503 S. Flores St. San Antonio, TX 78214 932-2610 Training Wheels Learning Center 1921 Rigby San Antonio, TX 78210 359-9434

East

All Kids 1st Learning Academy 270 Antrim Dr. San Antonio, TX 78218 822-7777 Bo Peep Learning Center 12919 Park Crossing San Antonio, TX 78217 655-2822

K & K Development & Learning Center 4518 Lord Road San Antonio, TX 78220 648-5430

Bright Kid’s Day Care 4230 Clear Spring San Antonio, TX 78217 655-9225

Kids Zone Christian Day Care 111 Dunaff St. San Antonio, TX 78219 333-7192

Brighton School 14207 Higgins Rd. San Antonio, TX 78217 826-4492 www.brightonsa.org

Nanny Nite Child Care 3155 Ackerman Rd. San Antonio, TX 78219 656-2669

Career Point Day School 3939 Thousand Oaks San Antonio, TX 78247 590-7393

Our Second Home 5635 FM 78 Kirby, TX 78219 661-3756

Castle Hills Learning Center 2769 Nacogdoches Rd. San Antonio, TX 78217 826-5650

Pecan Valley Child Care Center 4359 Greco Dr. San Antonio, TX 78222 333-2128 Safari Learning Center 5430 Old Seguin Rd. San Antonio, TX 78219 661-6055

Carmelite Learning Center 2006 Martin Luther King Dr. San Antonio, TX 78203 533-0651

St. Phillips College Child Development Center 2207 Wyoming San Antonio, TX 78203 486-2500

Eman Christian Academy 903 S WW White Rd. San Antonio, TX 78220 333-0166

Stephanie’s Angels 1411 Upland Rd. San Antonio, TX 78219 333-8700

Our Kids Magazine | Childcare & Preschool Finder June 2013

North East

The Children’s Greenhouse 10500 Nacogdoches San Antonio, TX 78217 599-1028 Christian World Learning Center 6633 Walzem Rd. San Antonio, TX 78239 657-5262 Discovery World Learning Center 6020 Fountainwood San Antonio, TX 78233 655-6941 Eisenhauer Rd. Baptist School & Day Care 3950 Eisenhauer Rd. San Antonio, TX 78218 655-6831

Childcare & Preschool Directory Future Generations Daycare and Learning Center 7608 Narrow Pass Live Oak, TX 78233 653-4227

Mulberry School 15656 Classen San Antonio, TX 78247 402-1226 www.koolkidslc.com

St. Matthews United Methodist Day Care 2738 MacArthur View San Antonio, TX 78217 826-4850

Happyland Day Care Center 4168 Stahl Rd. San Antonio, TX 78217 654-9090

New Horizons School 3700 Ridge Country St. San Antonio, TX 78247 494-7022

St. Pius Catholic School 7734 Robin Rest Drive San Antonio, TX 210-824-6431

Holy Trinity Presbyterian Day School 16245 Nacogdoches San Antonio, TX 78247 599-7640

Nite-Owl Child Care Center 11220 Perrin Beitel #114 San Antonio, TX 78217 599-1095

Kids-R-Delightful 11211 O’Connor Rd. San Antonio, TX 78233 650-4022

Northern Hills UMC Day School 3703 N Loop 1604 E San Antonio, TX 78247 654-8406 www.nhumc.org

The Cherished Child at John Calvin Presbyterian Preschool 8102 Midcrown San Antonio, TX 78239 657-9575 www.johncalvinpresbyterian. org

Kids R Fun 13032 Nacogdoches Rd. #204-207 San Antonio, TX 78217 650-5437 Kids R Fun #2 4503 Thousand Oaks San Antonio, TX 78233 590-2005 King of Kings Child Care Center 13888 Dreamwood San Antonio, TX 78233 656-6509 www.sakingofkings.com Loving Christian Learning Center 4222 Sunshadow St. San Antonio, TX 78217 650-4258 MacArthur Park Lutheran School 2903 Nacogdoches San Antonio, TX 78217 822-5374 Ms. Annie’s Daycare Center 12134 El Sendero San Antonio, TX 78233 599-6010

Precious Angel Learning Center & Daycare 13777 Judson Rd. Suite 101 San Antonio, TX 78233 654-5500 Resurrection Children’s Center 5909 Walzem Rd. San Antonio, TX 78218 655-0451 San Antonio Country Day School 4194 Jung Rd. San Antonio, TX 78247 496-6033 www.countrydayschool.net San Antonio Country Day Montessori School is an academically rich Montessori environment for students 2 1/2 6th grade. Preschool programs include two, three, and five days per week. Call today to apply.

St. Margaret’s Episcopal Day School 5310 Stahl Rd. San Antonio, TX 78247 657-0395 www.stmargarets.us

The Growing Stage 14435 Bulverde Rd. San Antonio, TX 78247 494-6841 Tree of Life Learning Center 12525 Nacogdoches STE 107 San Antonio, TX 78217 646-7998 Trinity Preschool 5401 N Loop 1604 E San Antonio, TX 78247 653-2800 www.trinitychristianacademysa.com We offer curriculum that incorporates learning centers in science, art, music, library and dramatic play. Activities include dance, computer and motor skills classes and prekindergarten ABEKA program for 4 & 5 year olds.

Triumphant Lutheran Preschool 21315 Bat Cave Road Garden Ridge, TX 78266 210.651.9090 ext. 2 www.triumphantlutheran.org TLP offers classes for young three-year-olds to five- yearolds. Our mission is to provide an age-appropriate, Christian based program where children grow academically, socially, physically & emotionally.

Windcrest Day School & Child Development 8101 Midcrown San Antonio, TX 78239 655-9350 www.windcrestumc.org Windcrest Day School and Child Development is a nationally accredited by NAEYC and offers Day School and full-time programs for young children in the northeast community. Stop by and see why parents are saying “We love this school”!

Young Journeys Day School 8142 Shin Oak Drive, Suite 106 San Antonio, TX 78233 659-7929

South East Alice in Wonderland Day Care Center 222 Pleasanton Rd. San Antonio, TX 78214 532-5683 Blessed Sacrement Academy Child Development Center 1135 Mission Rd. San Antonio, TX 78210 532-5363 Good Shepherd Lutheran Day Care 1630 Goliad Rd. San Antonio, TX 78223 333-0461 www.goodshepherdlutheran. com Hands N Hands Childcare and Learning Center 875 Hot Wells San Antonio, TX 78223 532-3396 Highland Hills Child Development Center 3314 S. Gevers St. San Antonio, TX 78210 532-3797 Kids Corner Learning Center 6003 Return Dr. San Antonio, TX 78214 923-2984

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Childcare & Preschool Directory Kid Kountry Early Learning Center 11708 Donop Rd. San Antonio, TX 78223 633-2600 Kid’s City Preschool & Learning Center 4217 Clark Ave. San Antonio, TX 78223 533-4500 Playtime Day Care 11470 S Foster Rd. San Antonio, TX 78223 633-3300 Tot Spot Children’s Daycare 6503 S Flores St. San Antonio, TX 78214 932-2610 Wee Friends Preschool & Day Care 3302 E Southcross Blvd.

San Antonio, TX 78223 532-2224

West

Children’Summit Learning Center 2250 Benrus San Antonio, TX 78228 435-7022 www.childrens-summit.com

Valley Hi Assembly of God Daycare Center 4424 SW Loop 410 San Antonio, TX 78227 674-6784 www.valleyhiag.org

First Mexican Baptist Child Development Center 201 Meredith Dr. San Antonio, TX 78228 735-7861

Valley Hi Baptist Academy 6623 SW Loop 410 San Antonio, TX 78227 674-5300

Gramma’s Place 1911 Serene Valley San Antonio, TX 78227 673-7295 Happy Childcare and Learning Center 3414 Culebra Rd. San Antonio, TX 78228 434-4436 Little Smiles Day Care 508 Cupples Rd. #5 San Antonio, TX 78237 434-7135

Yogiland Too Learning Center 2015 Bandera Rd. San Antonio, TX 78228 432-0253

North West Achievers Academy 6002 Ingram San Antonio, TX 78238 445-3080 Apple Tree Day School 10350 Bandera Rd. STE 200 San Antonio, TX 78250 509-1919 Blue Bonnet Learning Center 6810 Bandera Rd. Ste 1 Leon Valley, TX 78238 520-7775

Air Force Village Child Care 12455 Freedom Way San Antonio, TX 78245 838-6304

Madonna Neighborhood Center 1906 Castroville Rd. San Antonio, TX 78237 432-2374

All My Children 627 N Gen McMullen San Antonio, TX 78228 438-1003

Noah’s Ark Day Care Center 6610 Hwy 90 West San Antonio, TX 78227 679-5956

Angel Valley Christian Day Care 1305 SW Loop 410 #125 San Antonio, TX 78227 673-3019

Nonna Bear’s Play House 9838 Misty Plain San Antonio, TX 78245 645-1013

Beanie Learning Center 106 Las Palmas San Antonio, TX 78237 432-1514

Silver Spoons Preschool 1627 Meadow Way San Antonio, TX 78227 675-7660

Children’s Enrichment Center 6739 Callaghan San Antonio, TX 78229 342-4302 www. childrensenrichmentcenter.org

Bustos Daycare & Learning Center 959 34th SW Street San Antonio, TX 78237 433-1580

Temple of Praise Early Child Development Center 1620 Pinn Rd. San Antonio, TX 78227 673-2000

Discovery World Learning Center 5455 Prue Rd. San Antonio, TX 78240 691-0064

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Our Kids Magazine | Childcare & Preschool Finder June 2013

Bright Ideas Child Enrichment 9433 Fredericksburg Rd. San Antonio, TX 78240 694-4622 Buttons N Bows 9035 Huebner Rd. San Antonio, TX 78240 690-6093

Family Endeavors Child Center 9314 Ryder Dr. San Antonio, TX 78254 681-8350 Giant Steps Early Learning School 7900 Old Tezel Rd. San Antonio, TX 78250 521-6677 www.giantstepsschool.com Humble Creek Ranch Youth & Sports Academy 7430 Prue Rd. San Antonio TX 78249 509-8300 KidCare Drop-In 4953 NW Loop 410 San Antonio, TX 78229 682-1551 Kiddie Planet Learning Center 7326 Louis Pasteur San Antonio, TX 78229 593-0868 Kids’ Campus Child Care 8036 Fredericksburg Rd. San Antonio, TX 78229 692-9224 Kids Campus Care Center II 5440 Babcock Rd. Suite 100 San Antonio, TX 78240 558-0727 Kids R Kids Quality Learning Center 10002 Camino Bandera San Antonio, TX 78254 523-1100 www.krksa.com Kids R Kids – Liberty Field (210) 681-5437 10606 Liberty Field Road San Antonio, Texas 78254 www.krklibertyfield.com Kids World Day Care Center 7790 Mainland St. San Antonio, TX 78250 681-6671

Childcare & Preschool Directory Little Red Caboose 6304 Babcock San Antonio, TX 78240 691-1050 Montessori Earth School 4911 Golden Quail San Antonio, TX 78240 558-8339 www.montessoriearthschool.com Northwest Hills Christian School 6585 Heath Circle Dr. San Antonio, TX 78250 522-1102 Playworks Early Childhood & Youth Program 9480 Braun Rd San Antonio, TX 78254 523-7529 www.playworks-cdc.com The Pillars Christian Learning Center 11040 Reed Road, San Antonio, TX 78251 210-523-2613 HYPERLINK “http://www. thepillarsclc.com” www. thepillarsclc.com St. Paul’s Catholic Learning Center 1201 Donaldson San Antonio, TX 78228 738-8715 Shepherd of the Hills Lutheran School 6914 Wurzbach San Antonio, TX 78240 614-3741 www.shlutheran.org Suburban School 5409 Encino Park Road San Antonio, Texas 78240 (210) 696-0213 Summerlin Child Care 6387 De Zavala Rd. San Antonio, TX 78249 641-7337

The Mustard Seed Early Learning Center (210) 688-7003 11555 Galm Road #200 Two miles outside Loop 1604 & Shaenfield Road www.mustardseedelc.com The mission of The Mustard Seed Early Learning Center is to provide a learning community in which each child is developing and growing in all areas of development – social, emotional, physical, cognitive and language.

Westover Hills Learning Center 9340 Westover Hills Blvd.

San Antonio, TX 78251 523-1505

South West Children’s Playhouse 835 W. Southcross Blvd.

San Antonio, TX 78211 924-2277

Crossroads Christian Academy 5834 Ray Ellison

The Montessori School of San Antonio 17722 Rogers Ranch Parkway San Antonio, TX 78258 210-492-3553 www.montessorisa.org <http:// www.montessorisa.org> The early years of infancy and childhood are the foundation for life. The Montessori School of San Antonio provides children with a developmentally appropriate environment that is carefully prepared to meet the needs of the whole child. Areas of emphasis include Practical Life, Sensorial, Math, Language Arts, and Cultural studies.

Trinity United Methodist School 5319 Newcome Dr. San Antonio, TX 78229 684-5214 www.trinityums.org University United Methodist Day School 5084 De Zavala Rd. San Antonio, TX 78249 691-2704 www.uumcsatx.org UTSA Child Development Center 6900 North Loop 1604 W Lot 11 San Antonio, TX 78249 458-6364 www.utsa.edu/cdc

San Antonio, TX 78242 623-4500 Heavenly Place Child Development Center 1433 Sommerset Rd. San Antonio, TX 78211 924-7030

Little Clues Day Care Center and Learning Center 6103 S Zarzamora San Antonio, TX 78211 927-1053

Mt. Olive Lutheran Daycare and Learning Center 3550 W. Loop 1604 S San Antonio, TX 78245 210-673-6651

Poppy’s Kiddie Kampus 200 Briggs Ave. San Antonio, TX 78211 922-5382

Babysitting/Nannies AuPair Care 800-428-7247 www.AuPairCare.com

Multiple Locations Childrens Lighthouse Stone Oak (210) 495-ABCD Alamo Ranch (210) 256- ABCD Helotes (210) 695-4988 www.ChildrensLighthouse.com Country Home Learning Center www.countryhomelearningcenter.com Call 210-687-1002 Country Home Learning Center provides the very best in quality childcare for ages 6 weeks to 13 years, with exceptionally small classes. We offer an innovative, comprehensive educational program in a first-class facility. Students enjoy our λWaterpark λAdventure Jungle Indoor Playground λPutt-Putt Golf Course λGymnasium λ1950’sStyle Soda Shop λMovie Theater λComputer Lab λHorseback Riding at Country Home Ranch.

YMCA of Greater San Antonio San Antonio, TX 246-9630 www.ymcasatx.org Primrose School at Sonoma Ranch 210-372-1488 14875 Kyle Seale Pkwy., San Antonio, TX www.PrimroseSonomaRanch.com Primrose School of Huebner Village 210-479-9200 2410 Huebner Park, San Antonio, TX www.PrimroseHuebnerVillage.com Primrose School at Cibolo Canyons 210-479-7099 3330 TPC Parkway, San Antonio, TX www.PrimroseCiboloCanyons.com Primrose is an accredited private preschool that provides a premier educational child care experience. The Leader in Educational Child Care®, we partner with parents to help children build the right foundation for future learning and life. Our goal is to help children have fun while building Active Minds, Healthy Bodies and Happy Hearts®.

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Encourage Your Preschooler’s Vocabulary 5 Ways to Get Ready to Read!

By Michele Ranard, M.Ed.

W

ho can forget their child’s first word? It was likely your name, but maybe it was “bawww” (ball) which lit up your faces with a smile. It feels natural to celebrate, praise, and applaud our toddlers as they acquire new language skills daily. In turn, such enthusiasm encourages a child to speak additional words.

However, University of Iowa psychology professor Bob McMurray, Ph.D. says parents stop emphasizing language as their kids leave toddlerhood. Since a preschool child’s vocabulary is a critical predictor of school preparedness and reading comprehension, it is important parents do what they can to boost it.

McMurray’s research indicates a vocabulary explosion (or “word spurt”) is dependent upon a child learning a mix of words, both easy and not easy and all at once. Interestingly, vocabulary explosions specifically require “more difficult words than easy words.” The professor and other language professionals make the following suggestions to boost your child’s verbal skills.

Mealtime Magic (Hold the Thesaurus) A child’s vocabulary can be enhanced by our talk at the dinner table. Use moments at mealtimes to introduce new words, especially challenging ones since you’ll have their attention in a pleasant setting.

What to discuss? In a mealtime study, Dr. Diane Beals and her colleagues at the University of Tulsa discovered that 3- and 4-year-olds who were exposed to uncommon words such as “boxer,” “wriggling,” or “tackle,” scored higher on standardized tests at age 5.

Beals says forget about serving up a thesaurus at the table and instead discuss “your day or something cool you saw at the store.” Bringing in new words helps them form connections between words and real-life events.

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Our Kids | Childcare & Preschool Finder June 2013

Lovely Language from Lit Reading your child a story creates magic for both of you and is beneficial to their growing vocabulary when you ask lots of questions during the story, checking for understanding. If your preschooler does not recognize a word when you quiz her, ask her to study the illustration for clues. Classics like “Where the Wild Things Are” contains new words your child may not otherwise hear and accommodate such as “rumpus” and “gnashed.” Throughout the book, continue to interact with your child, asking open-ended questions such as “What do you suppose will happen next?” and “Why do you suppose Max felt so angry?” Such interactions involving novel vocabulary will improve the quality of their language skills, setting them up for increased success in school.

Guessing for Success Consider a little restraint to challenge your child. McMurray suggests instead of automatically doling out definitions for your preschooler when they are stumped on a word’s meaning, you should give clues and allow her to figure it out on her own. If, for example, the word in question is “equestrian,” give her hints such as saddle, mane or stable. It can also be helpful to “tell them what it isn’t” So you could say “not cows, but…”

Stage Your Own ‘Show & Tell’ Who says “show and tell” is just for school? You can easily use this format to describe and discuss an object to expand their vocabulary outside of school.

You might demonstrate the hand chopper you use to dice vegetables, explaining how the appliance functions and saves you time. You could show your child the checks in your checkbook, discussing how the small sheets of paper may be used for payments. The

important thing is to have your child’s attention and provide something to touch and to see to anchor vocabulary within their memories.

Make Believe & Mime Engaging your child in pretend play will introduce her to a wider variety of vocabulary words. If you are playing restaurant, for example, there are all sorts of unfamiliar words that can be integrated into the session – including menu, hostess, variety, or beverage. If she wants to land on the moon, vocabulary words such as lunar, satellite, or gravity might be incorporated.

Outside of pretend play, parents can help their children better remember the meanings of words by acting them out. Even simply explaining that shrugging your shoulders means “I don’t know” is helpful.

Is all the acting and drama really necessary?

Consider a University of Chicago study that is the first to connect gesture, vocabulary and school preparedness. Conducted by Susan Goldin-Meadow, the results indicate children who use more gestures at 14 months have larger vocabularies at 54 months and are better prepared for school. Goldin-Meadow indicates “Child gesturing could play an indirect role in word learning by eliciting timely speech from parents” since a child pointing to an object like a cup might elicit a response from the parent such as “Yes, that’s a cup!”

Try all five of these strategies to boost your child’s verbal repertoire today and help her become a better reader tomorrow.”

Michele Ranard is passionate about partnering with parents to help kids succeed. She is a mother, academic tutor/counselor, and freelance writer with a master’s in counseling.

The Little Gym offers a wide variety of classes that help children reach their greatest potential. Structured lessons, unique themes and a nurturing environment build confidence during each stage of childhood.

Call or schedule a free introductory class online.

NE San Antonio www.thelittlegym.com/NESanAntonioTX 210.545.3770 Alamo Heights www.thelittlegym.com/AlamoHeightsTX 210.822.9252

THE ONLY PLACE MORE LOVING IS IN YOUR ARMS. > NOW ENROLLING!

Resources: ■■Goldin-Meadow, Susan. “Kids’ Gestures Foretell Better Vocabularies.” Journal of Developmental Psychology. Feb 2009. http://goldin-meadow-lab.uchicago.edu/ sgm.html ■■McMurray, Bob. “Defusing the Childhood Vocabulary Explosion.” Science. August 2007. http://www.psychology.uiowa.edu/ faculty/mcmurray/science/

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