Preschool Program Overview
The preschool years are a critical time for building the foundation of learning, faith, and social development. At Epworth’s Preschool, we provide a Christ- centered, nurturing environment where children ages 3–5 can explore, discover, and grow. Our curriculum is carefully designed to support brain development, emotional growth, and kindergarten readiness.
Children learn through play, exploration, and meaningful interaction with teachers and peers. Daily experiences are structured to promote self-identity, confidence, problem-solving, language development, and social skills while building strong faith connections.
Highlights of Preschool
Our preschool program offers a balanced schedule of whole-group, small-group, and individualized activities. Teachers focus on positive, intentional interactions, listening to children, guiding conversations, and encouraging curiosity. Each day includes opportunities for:
- Academic Readiness: Literacy, math, science, and creative expression aligned with Ohio Early Learning Content Standards.
- Faith Development: Bible lessons, prayer, songs, and stories that remind children they are loved by God and called to love others.
- Social & Emotional Growth: Activities that build friendships, cooperation, and self-confidence.
- Physical Development: Indoor gym time, outdoor play, and activities to strengthen fine and gross motor skills.
- Creative Exploration: Music, art, dramatic play, and hands-on discovery.
Get started
Registration Information:
Registration for the next school year will begin the first Sunday of February for Epworth UMC members and current Epworth ELC families. Registration will be open to the public on the second Sunday of February. Our school year start date will be the Tuesday following Labor Day and conclude the Friday before Memorial Day. We have a google form you can fill out now that will put you on a list for us to be able to email when registration begins for the new school year. When registration is complete and processed we will email you with the forms and information you need to enroll in the program. Please expect an email back from us with a Brightwheel account. This is our child care management software and how we keep in touch with current and prospective families. You may also fill out the contact form below to learn more about the program or to schedule a visit.
Philosophy
We believe that meaningful teacher-student interactions are at the heart of learning. By listening attentively and engaging children in dialogue, we help them develop emotional regulation, language skills, and problem-solving abilities. Our goal is to build resilience, confidence, and a love of learning.
Preschool at Epworth is not only about preparing for kindergarten academically but also nurturing the whole child—spiritually, emotionally, socially, and physically. By the time they leave our program, children are confident, capable, and excited to continue their educational journey.
Kindergarten Readiness
Our preschool curriculum is thoughtfully aligned with the standards and benchmarks set for kindergarten readiness. Children graduate from our program with the skills, confidence, and faith foundation needed to thrive in school and beyond.
Enrollment Process
Children must be 3 years old by the start date and must be potty trained.
Our program recognizes potty trained students as those who are in underwear only (no pull up). Can go to the bathroom and take care of regular bathroom needs without the assistance of an adult. (i.e. – bottoms and underwear down, sitting on potty or standing, going to the bathroom, wiping, pulling up bottoms and underwear, flushing, washing hands) Students do not need to memorize these steps but they should be able to complete them when reminded. Accidents do occasionally happen (once a month maybe) and this would still count as being potty trained.
Children must be fully vaccinated according to the American Academy of Pediatrics guidelines; there are no exemptions or exceptions accepted
Registration begins in February:
- 1st Sunday – Epworth UMC members & current ELC families
- 2nd Sunday – Open to the public
Enrollment paperwork and tuition deposit are due at registration.
Families will receive Brightwheel access for communication and billing.
Steps to Enroll
- Fill out the Family Interest Form.
- Set up a tour with our Calendly link. Tours for classrooms are best between 10 – 11 am or 1-2pm Monday, Wednesday & Thursday. After the tour, you are ready to enroll now if you are interested(if you do not want a tour of the program please skip ahead to step 3).
- Fill out the registration packet --(Sent in Brightwheel after steps above have been completed). Follow the link we sent to your email. Complete your profile, and add each of your children attending. Fill out all paperwork on each child’s profile and pay the registration fee.
- Fill out the Enrollment Packet --(Sent in Brightwheel after steps above have been completed). Follow the link we sent to your email. Fill out all paperwork on each child’s profile.
- Complete Step Up to Quality Packet (sent in Brightwheel after steps above have been completed). Follow the link we sent to your email. Fill out all paperwork on each child’s profile.
- Enrollment paperwork is complete you will receive a final packet to read via Brightwheel containing important start of school information.
- Pay the deposit invoice. The monthly tuition will be billed on the first of every month, from September to April.
If you are not ready to begin this school year but would like more information for next school year please complete the form below:
Preschool Calendar
Assessments & Conferences
At the end of each semester, families receive written assessments that highlight their child’s growth and progress. These reports provide a full picture of the child’s academic learning, developmental milestones, and social-emotional growth.
In addition, we hold parent-teacher conferences in early March. These meetings give families and teachers a dedicated time to talk together about each child’s progress, celebrate strengths, and discuss areas for continued support.
By working in partnership with families, we create a positive environment where children can thrive. This collaboration helps ensure every child receives the guidance and encouragement they need to grow academically, emotionally, and socially.
Guidance & Management
At Epworth ELC, we believe that helping children learn self-control is an important part of early development. Our goal is for each child to build self- discipline through gentle and consistent guidance. Expectations are set with the age and ability of each child in mind. Teachers establish clear and reasonable rules, explain logical consequences, and gradually offer more responsibility as children are ready. Children are always made aware of expectations in ways they can understand. Positive reinforcement and redirection are the primary tools we use to guide behavior. This approach helps children feel supported, respected, and capable of making good choices. All guidance and management practices at Epworth ELC follow the regulations outlined in section 5101:2-12-22 of the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services. These standards apply to every staff member and every child in our care, ensuring consistency, safety, and fairness for all.