FAQ

How do I know if my child is ready for preschool?

Nothing is more important in a child's early life than time spent learning and playing with parents. A child is ready for preschool only if you are ready as a family. When a child shows increased interest in playing with other kids, when you begin to sense in your child an urgency to explore, to try new things, to test physical skills, when your child becomes clearly interested in the concept of independence, of doing things for him or herself, he or she will probably enjoy preschool and thrive in this environment.

Why our School?

First Steps International Academy creates a challenging and enriching multicultural safe environment for learning where traditional and contemporary styles of teaching are carefully integrated.
First Steps International Academy promotes fulfillment of each person’s potential by identifying individuals’ needs and targets; while striving for excellence. In fact, every child will be provided with experiences of success and self esteem which are essential in the physical, social, emotional and cognitive development of young children.

Are you a part of a chain or national center or school?

First Steps International Academy is part of Education First Inc, a company owned by one family that has the passion for education and has been involved with education for over 20 years.
Education Fist Inc is a company that owns and operates schools in Florida and internationally.
In Florida, it has nationally accredited three preschool programs serving families with children twelve months to five years of age.  It operates year round and offers extended hours.  Internationally, it co-owns two IB World accredited schools that serve children from preschool to high school ages.

Do you have to be potty trained to attend preschool?

We take children from one year old and we do potty training in our school.
Potty training is a crucial developmental stage for a child. Motor and language skills, self confidence, independence, following directions, attention and many other skills are involved in making of potty training a positive and successful experience.
Potty training should not be a discouraging, for the contrary, it is an extraordinary achievement that needs to be celebrated and enjoyed by every one in the family and school.
At our school we understand it is not easy for parents as every child is unique in the way they learn. We offer conferences and we are always open to help you and work together in partnership with all our parents.

 

Is this an academic based program?

Yes, our curriculum is based on developmentally appropriate international standards of education for young children. All activities are age appropriate. Learning objectives are set for each student according to individual needs. First Steps International Academy promotes fulfillment of each child’s potential while striving for excellence.

Will my child be challenged?

Yes, we create a challenging and enriching environment for learning where traditional and contemporary styles of teaching are carefully integrated.
Your child will be challenged in all developmental areas and teachers will keep record of your child's achievements.
All his learning will be fun and exiting as our program is based on a high quality play approach.

 

What are the teacher's qualifications?

 

First Steps International Academy employs loving bilingual teachers who are not only degreed in Early Childhood Education, but also have been specifically trained in delivering an International Curriculum. Our teachers are facilitators in-charge of leading children in their process of discovering the world. Teachers are in a permanent quest to get to know each and every one of the children's needs, styles and interest to be able to provoke and inspire them to learn and search for solutions to their own inquiries. They also understand the importance of encouraging a clear set of values, knowledge and skills in an inviting, loving and friendly environment.

 

 

Do you have part-time care available?
Our hours of operation are Monday thru Friday. 7 AM to 6:30 PM and these are the schedules:
  • Two days tuition, from 8 am to 4 pm
  • Three half days, from 8 am to 12 m
  • Three full days, from 8 am to 4 pm
  • Five half days, from 8 am to 12 m
  • Five full days, from 8 am to 4 pm
We offer extended times too.

 

Will my child be using a computer?

Yes, in our computer lab your boy/girl will find age appropriated software to ensure that your child develops to the best of his/her ability.

Do you do field trips?

Yes, they will be offered for the three years old and up classes. You will be notified in advance when they are scheduled for your child's individual class.

Could I celebrate my child birthday at the school?

The birthday of your child is a special time and can be celebrated with his/her class. This is also a great way for parents to visit the school. Plan to come in and read a story to the class, or share something special that you do, play a game with the class, etc. Some parents enjoy making a contribution to the class by purchasing a book for the class library in honor of their child’s birthday. If you choose to do this, please inscribe the book donation and have the “birthday” child talk about it. Food items that are easy for children to handle may be brought in. We find that hard candy, small games that come apart and other items in party bags can be hazardous to small children. Please give at least one week’s notice to your child’s teacher so that necessary arrangements can be made.

Do you need a uniform?

Yes, there is a mandatory school uniform: Navy blue T-shirt with schools logo and kaki pant.

Children are required to wear the schools uniform at all time. Please understand children need to be in comfortable clothes, appropriate for both indoor and outdoor activities.

In the interest of safety, sandals, flip-flops, jellies, or boots may not be worn to school. We recommend that all children wear sneakers. To foster independence, parents are encouraged to purchase clothing that the children can easily manipulate. Children must keep a complete change of clothing on hand at school for spills and other emergencies. These clothes, as well as those worn to school, should be labeled with your child’s name (including socks and shoes). Getting “dirty’ is a part of learning, so don’t be upset if your child comes home “painty” or “sandy”. Extra school T-shirts can be purchased at the office.

Children should not wear expensive jewelry to school or items that hang form their neck or ears. Other children are curious and in the course of play, these items may be lost or broken. Hanging items are also a safety hazard as children can catch them on playground equipment or have other children pull them from their neck or ears.

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(7:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m)

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