Preschool Care for Ages 2½–5
Play-based learning that helps children build confidence, independence and the skills they’ll need for kindergarten and beyond.
What we offer
Building Confidence for Kindergarten and Beyond
Preschool at Tots is about more than learning letters and numbers. Through play, conversation and hands-on exploration, children develop early learning skills while building the independence and communication skills they’ll need to be successful in kindergarten.
Home-Like Environment
Letters, sounds, writing, numbers, counting, shapes, colors and more are introduced naturally through play, conversation and exploration.
Independence & Confidence
Children practice everyday skills such as putting on their own shoes, zipping their coat and taking greater responsibility for themselves.
Communication & Social Skills
We help preschoolers learn to communicate with classmates, build relationships and become more confident participating in a group.
Small Preschool Classroom
Our preschool room accommodates just 16 children, allowing teachers to know and support each child individually.
Balanced & Fulfilled Days
A Day Built Around Their Needs
A Typical Day in Our Preschool Program
Preschoolers enjoy a balance of structured activities, free choice, outdoor play and rest throughout the day.
- Free play
- Circle time
- Large-group activities
- Small-group activities
- Art
- Outdoor play
- Lunch
- Rest time or quiet play
- Afternoon outdoor play and choice time
Our more structured preschool time generally takes place from 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM, but learning remains rooted in play and exploration rather than worksheets.
Learning Through Play
Preschoolers learn best when they’re actively engaged. Rather than relying on worksheets, we introduce early learning concepts through conversations, activities and play.
Children explore:
- Letters and letter sounds
- Early writing
- Numbers and counting
- Shapes and colors
- Science and discovery
- Communication and problem solving
- Independence and everyday skills
Playful Learning, Real-World Readiness
How We Prepare Preschoolers for Kindergarten
Kindergarten readiness isn’t only about knowing letters and numbers. At Tots, we also help children develop the confidence and independence they’ll need when they enter a larger classroom.
Preschoolers practice communicating with classmates, following classroom routines and taking care of everyday tasks such as putting on their shoes and zipping their coats.
At the same time, play and exploration help build foundational academic skills such as recognizing letter sounds and writing their names.
Each spring, Tots meets one-on-one with families to discuss their child’s development and progress.
Little explorers
Where Outdoor Play Inspires Learning
Children thrive when they have room to explore. Our large, shaded outdoor play area encourages active play, imagination, and social interaction through playground equipment, bikes, ride-on toys, and plenty of space to enjoy the outdoors with friends.
Testimonials
What Parents Are Saying …
Frequently Asked Questions
Have Questions?
What ages does Tots Preschool accept?
Our Preschool program is designed for children ages 2½ through 5. Children can begin transitioning from our Toddler room at age 2½, with the timing based on developmental readiness and classroom availability. Most children transition by age 3.
What does a typical preschool day look like?
A typical day includes free play, circle time, large- and small-group activities, art, outdoor play, lunch, rest or quiet play, and afternoon choice time. Our more structured preschool activities generally take place from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM, while still emphasizing play and exploration.
How does Tots prepare children for kindergarten?
Kindergarten readiness is about more than academics. We help children develop independence and communication skills while building early learning skills such as letter-sound recognition and writing their names. Children also practice everyday tasks like putting on their own shoes and zipping their coats.
Does Tots Preschool use worksheets?
Our approach is centered on learning through play, conversation and hands-on exploration rather than worksheets. Children are introduced to early learning concepts naturally as they play, interact with teachers and classmates, and explore the world around them.
What early learning skills do preschoolers work on?
Preschoolers are exposed to letters and sounds, early writing, numbers and counting, shapes, colors, science and other foundational concepts. These skills are incorporated into conversations, activities and play rather than taught primarily through worksheets.
How does Tots help preschoolers develop independence?
Independence is an important part of our Preschool program. Children are encouraged to communicate with classmates, participate in classroom routines and develop practical skills such as putting on their shoes, zipping their coats and taking greater responsibility for themselves.
How do you communicate my child’s development and progress?
In addition to regular communication with families, Tots holds one-on-one meetings with preschool families each spring to discuss their child’s development and progress.
How much time do preschoolers spend outdoors?
Outdoor play is an important part of the preschool day. Children typically have outdoor time during the day and again after rest time when conditions allow. Our large, shaded backyard provides room for active play, climbing, riding bikes and cars, and spending time with friends.
Does Tots offer part-time Preschool?
Yes. Tots offers flexible 1–5 day enrollment options based on availability. Our program is primarily full-day, but we can also work with families who need half-day or before- and after-school arrangements.
Can I tour Tots Preschool before enrolling?
Absolutely. We encourage families to schedule a tour to see our Preschool room, meet our team, explore the outdoor play space and learn more about what a typical day at Tots looks like.
Come See the Difference for Yourself
Schedule a tour to meet our team, explore our classrooms, and discover why so many families choose Tots Learning Center for their child care needs.
Hours
Monday – Friday
6:30 AM – 6:00 PM
Closed on select holidays
Location
47277 Jefferson
Chesterfield, MI 48047
Call us
(586) 598-3160
For tours, rates, and enrollment