“We never had our boys spend time with people who were not family. Since August, the staff at WFS have become like Family. It is easy leaving our sons at a place where they are known and loved.” --Emily and Chris Jensen (parents)
Yes, preschool can be a stressful time for parents and children. It is so new to everyone! Here at Wichita Friends School, part of our being family to each other is keeping our parents in mind just as much as we do their children. When parents drop their children off at school for the very first time, we know leaving your child in the classroom can be rough. That is why we work to keep parents informed throughout the day about their little one’s experience until their child settles in and feels at home in the school. Preschool is a transition for everyone, and we want it to be a joyful part of the childhood journey.
In our classrooms we have fun and welcoming toys, just like some may have at home. We also encourage children to bring a “lovey” or “stuffy” to cuddle with at rest time. As you walk down the preschool hallway you will see our “Family Wall” where we post family photos, so when our littles get sad and miss Mommy and Daddy, we can walk just outside our classroom door and say “hello.” This brings our children great comfort.
At WFS, we keep in touch with our parents during the day by sending photos or video clips through a smartphone app. From both a mother's point of view and a teacher's point of view, I know how hard it is to leave your child at daycare. Therefore, I enjoy keeping this line of communication open and updated as much as I can so you can see how your child’s day is going. I feel like this makes the transition easier, and it offers reassurance that your child is in good hands here at Wichita Friends School.
“Even though some days are easier than others, when we do have a stressful drop off it's nothing like I would have imagined. The teachers at Wichita Friends School are ready to jump in with cuddles and loves that my daughter needs to feel safe.” --Julie Voss
“Moving to Wichita due to my husband's military career presented a lot of anxiety to our family as we looked for a school for our son. Once we found Wichita Friends School, our anxiety was instantly put at ease. At morning drop-offs when we enter the building, we are greeted with a warm welcome and my son always gets a hug! As a parent this eases my stress every day, knowing he is safe and truly cared for. When his teachers ask my son engaging questions like what car he brought for the day, I know his day is set for success. Even on harder mornings, because naturally we still have them -- he is a toddler – his teachers console him and provide him with the love he needs.” --Cassie Enea
“The staff at Wichita Friends School consistently makes my children feel welcomed each morning at drop-off, bringing a sense of comfort to both me and my kids as we adjust to a new routine. One thing I’ve come to appreciate deeply about WFS is how quickly the staff notices when a child is having a tough day. They respond with kind words and gentle reassurance, helping each child feel safe, seen, and cared for. Your children will truly be in good hands at this school.” --Kelsie Gomez
“One thing we love about WFS is our boys’ teacher, Ms. Kelsey. We have identical twins, and from day one Ms. Kelsey made sure to tell them apart. When she is not in the classroom, she leaves a note giving identifying characteristics so staff will know them by name. It has always been our desire for our twins to be their own person; not generalizing them as “the twins” supports our goal for them to be their unique selves despite sharing looks. This simple act shows Ms. Kelsey’s dedication to her kids. She is always happy to see the kids in her class and makes sure to greet each student upon arrival even in the midst of morning rush craziness.” --Emily and Chris Jensen
If you are reading this and need a loving and caring place for your young child (age 2.5 and older), or if you know someone who needs a place like this, give us a call! We would be happy to set up a tour!
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