Frequently Asked Questions

How can I arrange a tour of the preschool?

We welcome any family who wishes to come in for a tour of our preschool. Please email us at rossbaypreschool@gmail.com or contact us at 250-383-7445 to schedule a tour. Ross Bay Preschool is located at 1620 Earle Street.

What is your preschool philosophy?

We believe that children learn most effectively by being actively involved in the learning process. Learning Through Play is how children experience their world and bring meaning to it. It models the social framework that builds relationships for life and kindles imagination. Play gives children the chance to simply be children. It is through play that children learn best.

How many children are in each class and what is the teacher to child ratio?

Ross Bay Preschool offershalf day programming with 16-20 children in each class and a minimum of 2-3 teachers with an ECE/ECEA.

Do the children ever go on field trips?

We do offer 2-3 field trips per school year, scheduled in advance (Goldstream Park, Pumpkin Patch, Bug Zoo etc.) and require families to transport their child to and from.

What qualifications do your teachers have?

Our teachers have either their Early Childhood Education Certificates (ECE) or their Early Childhood Education Assistant Certificate (ECEA). All of our teachers have a clear criminal record check and current First Aid and are required to continue education yearly through workshops and conferences.

Who supplies snack each day?

Due to many allergies, preferences and dietary restrictions, each family provides their own child with a healthy snack each day.

Do you offer outdoor time?

Yes, rain or shine, we end each preschool class with outdoor time! We are happy to have the choice between use of the backyard (playhouse, sandbox, garden) or Hollywood Park (playground, large green space, soccer fields), which is located directly across the street.

Do you have any toilet training requirements?

Children do not need to be toilet trained. We strongly believe that children are ready at their own time and we are happy to help you during the toilet training process. Parents are to provide diapers, wipes and extra clothes and we are happy to help make each child comfortable during each class.

How is parent-teacher communication conducted?

Teachers are always available to speak with parents about any concern, and a parent may request a meeting with their child’s teachers at any time (dropping off or picking up can be a busy time). We encourage you to make an appointment so that undivided attention may be given to you. Teachers will communicate regularly with parents about their child’s progress and weekly emails are sent out to families to keep you up-to-date of what we are working on, events coming up, special guests etc.

What is your Discipline Policy?

We believe in conscious discipline such as setting boundaries, redirecting, encouragement, one-on-one problem solving, and teaching skills that promote empathy and self-regulation. Our teachers never berate, embarrass, punish, or withhold food or activities in order to discipline children.

How do teachers handle separation anxiety?

Separation anxiety is a normal developmental stage where children experience anxiety when they are separated from their parent. Separation is a process. Some children have no separation anxiety and some children experience anxiety for several weeks. It is important to comfort the child and let them know it is okay to cry or feel upset. Teachers manage separation by utilizing proven strategies to lessen the unknown, such as classroom visitation, consistent schedules and routines, bringing familiar items from home, and creating an open and honest communication with parents.

How do I enroll my child?

Once you have completed a tour and are interested in registering, we will require a completed Registration Form, registration fee and a photocopy of immunizations to confirm a space for your child. Please note that once registration opens for the following school year, we do fill quickly.