Our School

Spring Knolls embraces a play-based learning philosophy in a cooperative community while focusing on the “whole child.” Through the power of play, ​our experienced and dedicated staff help children thrive in the five developmental domains: social, language, cognitive, fine monitor, and gross motor skills. Parents also have an opportunity to assist in this growth through regular co-oping and helping outside the classroom.

What is Play-Based Learning?

Play-based learning is, essentially, to learn while at play. Whether it is building with blocks or playing with plastic animals in the sand table, the child solves problems and learn new skills while doing something they enjoy. The child directs the learning experiences based on their innate curiosity, furthering their understanding of the world and people around them.

For further information on the importance of play in children’s development, check out these recent articles:

• Want to get your kids into college? Let them play

• Effort to Restore Children’s Play Gains Momentum

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What is a Cooperative Community?

A cooperative community means that parents are directly involved with the education of their children. Not only do you get to see your child’s develop first hand, it also builds community and lowers the cost of tuition.

At Spring Knolls, parents have the option to co-op in the classroom on a weekly or bi-weekly basis (or opt out completely). All parents help in the school operations, from marketing to facilities upkeep.

Here are some benefits of a cooperative community:

• Connections and friendships formed during the preschool years can last a lifetime for both parent and child.

• Parents have the opportunity to observe and interact with their child and his or her peers.

• Parents learn useful tools and activities while assisting in the classroom.

• Children take pride in working alongside their parents on their assist days.

• Tuition is lower than at traditional nursery schools because parents serve as assistants to the teacher and school administrator.